Ruggable vs Traditional Rugs – Pros, Cons & What Most People Don’t Know

Babak Ahmadi
September 10, 2025
10:27 am

If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest, you’ve probably seen ads for Ruggable rugs—machine-washable, stylish, and promoted as a dream for busy households.

On the other hand, there’s the world of traditional rugs: hand-knotted, wool-based, heirloom-grade pieces that have been passed down for generations.

At Ahmadi Rug, we’ve worked with both — and we’ve seen firsthand what’s marketing hype… and what actually lasts.

Let’s break down the truth behind Ruggables, traditional rugs, and which might be right for you.

What is a Ruggable Rug?

Ruggable rugs are:

Two-piece systems: a thin rug cover + a non-slip rug pad
Machine-washable: designed to fit in standard home washers
Synthetic: typically made from polyester or chenille
Printed designs: digitally rendered patterns, not woven

They’re modern, flexible, and easy to care for — especially if you have kids, pets, or a busy lifestyle.

What Are Traditional Rugs?

We define “traditional” as:

Hand-knotted or hand-woven rugs
Made from natural fibers: wool, cotton, or silk
Often crafted in countries like Iran, Turkey, India, or Afghanistan
Patterns are woven, not printed—making each rug unique
Lifetime pieces that appreciate in value

These rugs are a symbol of legacy. Some of the rugs we clean and restore at Ahmadi Rug are over 100 years old.

🧼 Maintenance Comparison

Feature	Ruggable	Traditional Rug
Machine washable	✅ Yes	❌ No
Spot cleaning	✅ Easy	⚠️ Delicate process
Pet/kid friendly	✅ Very	✅ Yes, with proper care
Long-term durability	❌ Short term	✅ Multi-generational
Repairability	❌ Disposable	✅ Fully repairable
Stain resistance	✅ Moderate	✅ High (especially wool)

💰 Cost Breakdown: What Are You Really Paying For?

	Ruggable	Traditional
Starting Price	$89 – $399	$499 – $5,000+
Custom Sizes	❌ No	✅ Yes
Lifespan	~2–5 years	20+ years (or more)
Resale Value	❌ None	✅ Often increases
Warranty/Repair	❌ Replace	✅ Clean, patch, reweave

Note:
Many clients buy 3–4 Ruggables over 10 years due to wear. A single, quality wool rug might outlast them all.

🧠 What You’re Not Being Told About Ruggable Rugs

❗️1. They’re Not as Soft as They Look

The cover is thin, and even with a pad, they can feel “flat” underfoot. Don’t expect plush comfort.

❗️2. They Can Curl, Slide, or Bunch

The Velcro-like base doesn’t always grip well on all floors, especially if wet or dusty.

❗️3. They’re Not Indestructible

Pet claws, vacuum brushes, and furniture edges can damage the surface quickly.

❗️4. Limited Lifespan

Unlike a real rug that ages gracefully, most washable rugs degrade fast — once the print fades or edges fray, they’re not repairable.

🧠 When a Ruggable Is a Good Choice

You need a temporary solution for messy areas (e.g., nurseries, kitchens)
You want frequent style changes
You’re in a rental or transitional space
You want a machine-washable layer under food bowls or high-traffic spots

We often recommend Ruggables as “training wheels” for rug ownership — a bridge between bare floors and long-term investment rugs.

🧵 When a Traditional Rug Is Better

You want to invest in a piece that holds value
You need warmth and durability in living rooms or bedrooms
You appreciate craftsmanship, colorfastness, and comfort
You’re working with an interior designer who is sourcing heirloom-quality pieces

Many of our customers start with synthetics but come to Ahmadi Rug when they’re ready for the real thing.