This is one of those times where it's unfortunate that most people write reviews immediately after receiving an item instead of after using it for a while. This rug seemed great a first, it matched the photos, and was very comfy and absorbent. But I bought it because it was machine washable and after a five or six washes it looked finished. You know the way a towel gets if you line dry it instead of putting it in the dryer, all matted and stiff looking? Well that became the permanent look and feel of this mat no matter what method of washing and drying that I have tried (and we have a front loading washing machine btw, so very gentle).