The $80 Pet-and-Spill-Proof Rug I Need in Every Single Room in My Home

If there’s one thing you need to know about me, it’s that, IMO, animal print is a neutral. For example, one of the main reasons I was so eager to write about this U.K. house is because there’s leopard print in every single room. (Read: My dream home!) So, when I had the opportunity to test a machine-washable rug from Ashley Furniture, I pounced at the chance. 

The Nourison Home Machine Washable Series Rug is available in leopard print but comes in seven sizes. Another bonus? It’s not too much of a financial commitment. It clocks in at $79.99 for the 5×7 option (the highest price is $174.99). Although I got to test the product for free, after months of living with it, I’d feel confident paying under $80 for this gorgeous rug. 

I selected the Nourison Home rug in leopard print in the 5×7 size. Not only does it fit my living room, but it’s functional, too. I live with a (don’t tell him I’m writing this!) somewhat food-clumsy partner, a dog with often dirty paws, and a bunny who tears things apart and sheds gray fur. I knew that whatever rug I put in my living room would see a lot of action and, therefore, would have to be strong enough to withstand the traction. 

What I appreciate most about the rug is that the pattern disguises any spills or messes. For a period, we had several rainy days in Manhattan, and my dog’s muddy paw prints didn’t show up on the rug. (He sometimes evades me when I’m trying to wipe his feet!) 

But even if my pup’s paw prints did appear on the rug, I know it’ll be OK. While it isn’t the fluffiest rug I’ve ever walked on, the thinness makes it safe to machine wash. It’s made of polyester, cotton, and other fibers and boasts minimal shedding. I haven’t yet, but if I ever need to, I can quickly pop this rug in the wash and it’ll come out good as new. No wonder the brand says it’s meant for rooms with high foot traffic. 

Other rugs, even though they’re similar in size, can cost way more than the option from Ashley Furniture. Take, for example, the animal-print Ruggable rug; the 5×7 costs $239.00. It’s so chic, and the cover is machine washable, too, but it comes with a higher price tag. (It can be even more expensive depending on the texture you choose.) 

It’s safe to say I’m so excited about my leopard print rug from Ashley Furniture. It adds that visual intrigue to my space (my couch and the walls are white) without being distracting or overbearing. Plus, it’s a bonus knowing that I can immediately make it look brand new by chucking it in the wash. Don’t be surprised if I snag one for every room in my apartment.