I've only made one set (4) of mug rugs for my porch table and I luv'em! I try to keep them clean by using a paper napkin to catch the dribbles. You might want to consider (especially if they are too cute to mess up with stains) coating them with a scotch guard product. Mine aren't all that special so I'm not too concerned about getting them stained, but again I use the paper napkin to try to keep them as stain free as possible. I want to make some really 'cute' ones and others that I don't care if spaghetti sauce gets on them! And again, try using a napkin to place under the sandwich or cookies to keep mayo or grease (or butter) from the cookie from transferring to the mug rug. True, you won't be able to see it, but you will be able to use it! and then you won't have to wash everytime! Good luck! And if you come up with a great solution please share!