They are hailed as the ultimate design tool in any room, instantly transforming a space from incomplete to finished. Rugs anchor furniture, absorb sound, protect hardwood floors, and provide essential warmth underfoot. However, it is no secret that rugs endure significant wear and tear, even without children or pets. This is where washable rugs come into play.
The Rise of Washable Rugs
The next generation of rugs is a relatively new category but an absolute game-changer for anyone with pets, toddlers, or a tendency for mess. A washable rug does exactly what its name suggests: it can be cleaned in a home washing machine whenever needed. Red wine spill from a dinner party? No problem. Muddy paws after a walk? Simply toss it in the washing machine.
One brand reigns supreme in this space: Double. Launched in 2022, Double offers a range of design-forward, mess-friendly rugs that combine stylish aesthetics with the company’s patented two-layer construction. Billed as Australia’s favourite machine washable rugs, the brand has seen its popularity soar as homeowners and renters seek rugs that are both practical and visually appealing.
Double: Style Meets Practicality
Designed in Australia, Double features various rug styles suitable for all types of homes, along with highly sought-after collaborations with designers and artists such as Jono Fleming, Tiarna Herczeg, and others. The website offers handy features like a Style Quiz, Preview in Your Room, and Chat with a Stylist to help customers find the perfect rug for their space.
One satisfied customer shares: “I was skeptical about washable rugs looking cheap, but this completely changed my mind. The colours are vibrant and the design is so much more sophisticated than I anticipated. It’s become the focal point of our dining room. My sister visited last week and immediately ordered one for herself.”
Personal Experience with Double
As a mum with two children under five, I am firmly in my messy era. However, with a newly renovated home, I also have a strong desire to create a beautiful and calming space. That’s when I discovered Double and quickly became obsessed. I recently invested in the brand’s stunning Atrium Neutral Washable Wool Fine Cut Pile Rug (from $1,260) for under my dining table—and I haven’t looked back since.
Crafted from premium New Zealand wool and OEKO-TEX-certified natural fibres, this washable fine cut pile rug brings softness and quality to my dining space while being durable enough for high-traffic areas. I love its versatile neutral colourway and continuous Greek key border. Since placing it under my dining table, countless friends have complimented both its look and feel, many remarking that it appears far more expensive than its price tag. I honestly can’t wait to purchase other pieces from Double, as I am thoroughly impressed with the quality.
Other Offerings from Double
The Atrium option is not the only fantastic buy on the Double website. Shoppers can choose from New Zealand wool rugs, ultra-stylish jute options, flat weave rugs, loop rugs, and cotton pieces. From mid-century to bohemian and abstract designs, there are patterns and textures for every room in the home. I currently have my eye on several of the brand’s distinctive runners for my upstairs hallways, as well as cute options for my kids’ rooms.
Some of the best rugs on the Double website come from stylist Jono Fleming’s best-selling collection. In The Wild South Collection, Fleming captures Tasmania’s colour and texture, inviting its rugged beauty into contemporary living. The McMullin collaboration is also a high-end offering, combining Double’s machine washable quality with McMullin’s luxurious craftsmanship.
Customer Reviews
Reviews on the Double website are glowing, with many shoppers awarding five stars. One customer writes: “Bought in May 2023, have spilt a number of things on it. Soft, not the ‘sinking cloud’ kinda feeling I would love, but it is very soft. With two people it’s not difficult to attach to the velcro underneath. Doesn’t move—stays well on the velcro stuff. Washed for the first time yesterday (October) (cold + delicate wash) and then hung outside to dry in the sun. Has washed and dried well. Remains soft and fluffy. Was a bit nervous to wash it but overall really impressed. Would recommend especially with kids!”
Another adds: “With two young kids and a puppy, a washable rug was a no brainer for us. The rug looks great, is super soft and plush, and we’ve already had to wash it (thanks puppy), and it came out great!”
For more information and to try Double for yourself, visit their website.
