How to Choose the Best Area Rug for Your Home
An area rug not only updates your interior space but also defines the room’s boundary. And, it creates a soft cushion underfoot – nice after a long day! We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for information about area rug designs, styles, materials, and colors.
Area Rug Designs and Styles
When picking an area rug, choose a rug that coordinates with the color and style of your home décor. At least one color on the rugs should coordinate with the room color.
A brightly-hued rug can liven up a room if your décor and walls are neutral in color. On the other hand, if you prefer a rug that blends with your existing décor, opt for neutral tones (creams, grays, tans, and browns).
Geometric patterned rugs work best with modern décor. Traditional or floral patterns on rugs work well with a traditional, cottage, or bohemian décor.
Choose an area rug with a center medallion to create a dramatic focal point. Choose a rug with a repeated or overall pattern for rooms with a focal point such as a fireplace.
Consider additional rug shapes beyond the standard rectangle. Oval, round, and octagonal rugs can add a unique flair to your interior decor.
Can area rugs make a room look bigger?
When you choose a new rug in the correct size, it helps to make the room look bigger. Homeowners often choose a rug that is too small for the living space, making the room look smaller.
Another trick is to pick a lighter-toned rug to expand the space and create an open design feel. Or, choose a darker-toned rug to create a design for the area that feels more intimate and cozy.
Area rugs are usually available in these “standard” sizes. (Note: The sizes may vary slightly in length and width).
- 3 ft by 5 ft
- 4 ft by 6 ft
- 5 ft by 8 ft
- 7 ft by 10 ft
- 8 ft by 11 ft
- 9 ft by 12 ft
One way to visualize how a rug will fit into a room is to:
- Measure out the floor space based on the size of rug you think you will need, based on the standard rug sizes above.
- Tape off the measured area with removable masking tape. This will allow you to visualize the outline of the rug and how the rug will fit into the space. Go up or down a size until you are satisfied with the look.
Your area rug’s dimensions should be wide enough and have the size to fit all four legs of a couch, chair, or other furniture. At the very least, any rugs should be a size where the two front legs sit on the rug. Also, only putting the two front legs on any rugs can be a design choice.
What are area rugs made of?
When choosing a rug material, consider how the living space will be used, how much traffic it will receive, and how much cushion you desire. The right new rug ties a room together and sets the tone for your home. Area rug materials fall into two categories; natural and synthetic fibers.
Natural fabrics include wool, silk, cotton, sisal grass, jute, seagrass, and animal skin.
Synthetic fabrics include polypropylene, polyester, viscose, nylon, rayon, and acrylic. Rugs made of synthetic (man-made) materials are a good choice for pet owners as they are easier to clean than natural fiber rugs.
Consider a rug made from a durable synthetic fiber for high-traffic areas like a hallway or entryway. These rugs are usually easy to clean and stain-resistant.
Moreover, polyester and nylon rugs are the best for stain and soil resistance. Plus, rugs made of nylon retain their color best.
It is best to skip looped pile rugs if you have pets because your pet’s nails can snag the loops. Instead, consider a pile or shag rug.
Furthermore, an area rug is great for absorbing sound if you have tiled or hardwood floors. Thus, creating a quieter living space. With that in mind, if you live in an apartment with noisy neighbors, hang an area rug on the adjoining wall to help muffle sounds.
How much do area rugs cost?
Rugs made of synthetic materials are the most budget-friendly, while luxury rugs made of natural wool or silk will be more expensive to shop for.
Home repair expert, Bob Vila, says, “Of all rug types, hand-knotted construction is the most expensive because of the intensive labor involved in the process. But hand-knotted rugs also offer the longest endurance. A good hand-knotted rug can last 10 to 25 years; a great one, over 100. Machine-made rugs, which can be manufactured quickly on power looms, sell for more reasonable prices.”
How do I keep an area rug from moving across the floor?
Using a non-slip rug pad with your new area rug is best. A rug pad adds safety and protects the floor. Additionally, it adds cushioning, making it easier to vacuum and extend the life of your rugs while in your living space.
How do I clean an area rug?
Bob Vila mentions, “Vacuum the rug regularly to keep dirt from getting ground into the pile and clean it when it is soiled. Different materials, construction methods, and fibers require different cleaning methods, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes time to clean your rug.”
Don’t forget to flip the rug over and vacuum the underside. This will help to loosen and remove dust and dirt from rug fibers.
Vacuum the entire back of all your rugs several times to remove dirt and debris. Stand on the rug to keep it from shifting as you work.
The right area rug can create a new design and look to your home while providing warmth and comfort underfoot. When selecting a new area rug, it is important to consider the rug material, style, and colors that will work best for your interior living space and your family.
