Colors, Sizes, Materials, and More: Here’s How to Choose the Right Rug

Do you ever look at a room and get the feeling something is missing? Maybe that thing you’re looking for is a rug. When you get the right one in place, it can define a space and anchor the room, create feelings of warmth, intimacy, or vibrance, and help show off your furniture. 

Several factors go into the decision of which rug is right for you. What is the size of your room? Will you need a large area rug or perhaps just a runner? What kind of material do you want in your rug? Something natural and longer lasting but harder to clean? Or maybe a synthetic fiber but easy to take care of, like washable rugs? What about color and style, maybe you will prefer fluffy rugs? Do you want it to blend in or make a statement? The possibilities are endless, but asking yourself a few basic questions will help you make an informed decision and allow you to find the perfect rug.

How Big is Your Room?

The first thing you’ll need to do is measure your space. If a rug is too big, it can overwhelm a room. But if it’s too small, it will look strange as well. Is the rug for a living room or bedroom? In most cases, you’ll want to leave 10 to 20 inches of bare floor exposed between the edges of the rug and the walls of the room. 

The size of the room will also determine the rug’s shape. If you are looking for a rug for a kitchen or hallway, a runner is probably best. You will still want to have some exposed floor around the edges, but only a few inches are necessary.

What is Your Style?

Another important thing to consider is the style of your house and furniture. Rugs come in several types including Persian, European, Contemporary, Mid-Century, Geometric, and others. Choosing a rug that clashes with your other décor will create an odd look. Is your furniture modern or from an older era? Your rug should complement those pieces.

Color also plays a factor in choice of rugs. Your rug color doesn’t have to match your furniture, walls, or art exactly, but it shouldn’t be off-putting or distracting either. An opposing color can be a dynamic choice, so experiment with different options and find one you like.  

What Kind of Material Do You Want for Your Rug?

The choices of material for your rug will provide you with advantages and disadvantages. Rugs with natural fibers like wool or cotton tend to be more durable and can hide stains more easily. However, they also cost more on average and need to be cleaned more frequently. A rug made from synthetic fibers like acrylic, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or microfibers can be more stain resistant. Some, like washable rugs, can even go in your washing machine. However, they might not be as long-lasting as natural fiber rugs.

Who Will Be Walking on the Rug?

Do you have children or pets? They can put a lot of abuse on rugs with spills or accidents. A rug near an entryway will get dirt and other items from outside tracked on it as well. If you’re looking for a rug that you know will be frequently used, perhaps consider something easier to care for or a washable rug that can be cleaned with no fuss.

Have You Considered Pile Length?

Rugs range from short pile, or height of the fibers, to much higher pile, as is the case with shag carpets or rugs. High pile carpets are cozy and inviting. The plush rugs are better suited for a bedroom, living room or someplace with less traffic. 

Will You Be Using a Rug Pad?

Rug pads are helpful in preventing slippage when walking on the rug. They provide comfort and stability on the feet. They also help to minimize or eliminate dents in the floor when something is dropped on the rug. Some, like washable rugs, come with a rug pad included, which is another convenience to consider.

How Much Are You Looking to Spend?

Cost is important when choosing a rug because of the large range of prices. Depending on the material, size, style, and where you purchase your rug, you could end up paying anywhere from a hundred dollars or less to thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. To save money, look for retailers to have sales, often around holidays. 

Have Fun!

Choosing a rug for your home will present you with a number of options, like going for something antique, which can be expensive or something more functional, like a washable rug. But when you do find the right one, it can give you joy for years to come.