Rug Buying Guide: All About Choosing the Best Area Rugs for Any Room

When it comes to converting a space into your home, it's always the decor elements you opt for that matter the most. From choosing the right type of furniture to painting the walls with the matching color, many things go on with decorating a house. Among them, picking the best area rugs for the rooms is the most overlooked yet crucial decision you have to make. A carefully chosen rug can define any space in your home, including the living room, bedroom, or even the bathroom. However, it's always confusing where to start, considering the many options available.

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If you are also planning to buy the best area rug for your home and are confused about where to begin, this article will guide you through the factors for choosing the right rug, room-specific recommendations, and more.

Table of content

• Factors to Consider When Choosing an Area Rug

• Room Specific Area Rug Suggestions

• Maintenance Tips to Improve Durability

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Area Rug

The right rug can seamlessly transform your space. Here are the major factors you should consider before buying an area rug. 

Size of the rug

What's the perfect rug size for my space? This is one of the most important and common questions you ask when buying modern area rugs for your home. The answer differs based on several factors such as location, room dimension, etc. However, as a general rule, opt for a large area rug if you have a lot of space. Likewise, if you have a smaller room, choose a smaller rug or round area rugs and center the interior elements around the same to make the room look more spacious. Below are some more tips for choosing the right rug size.

• Ensure that the area rug you buy is proportional to the room's size and the furniture in it. Opt for a rug size large enough to accommodate all of the furniture or at least the front legs of the main furniture.

• Never pick a rug that's too small. A considerably small rug can take away the balance of the room by making the space look small or congested.

When in doubt, keep the general rules of thumb such as: 

• Living room: The area rug for the living room should extend at least eight inches from the back of the furniture if it is not arranged up against a wall. Likewise, the rug positioned against the wall shall extend at least one foot beneath the sofa. 

• Bedroom: Always opt for a rug as wide as the ends of the bedside lamp stand or tables and one that extends at least three feet in front of the bed.

• Dining room: If you plan to buy a rug to place underneath a dining table, buying one that extends three feet on each side from the table's edge is advised.

Material

Another important factor to consider is the material with which a rug is made. Rugs are available in different materials, from eco-friendly natural fibers to durable synthetic materials. However, choosing the right material is necessary as it influences the rug's durability, functionality, and overall aesthetics. Below are some common rug materials and their features.

• Wool: Wool area rugs are well-known for their softness and durability. Wool is a strong, stain-resistant material that also retains shape. Because they also provide natural insulation, wool rugs could be the ideal choice for living rooms and bedrooms. 

• Cotton: Majority of cotton rugs are lightweight and are easy-to-clean, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. They are often machine-washable and soft. The only drawback is that they will not last as long in high-traffic areas as their counterparts. 

• Synthetic material: Synthetic fiber rugs, made from materials such as polyester and nylon, are mostly stain-resistant. They are perfect for high-traffic areas and are simple to clean. This material is an ideal carpet choice for nursery rug. They not only provide comfortable touch and good safety, but also have the advantages of easy cleaning and maintenance, suitable for the special needs of baby rooms.

• Jute rugs: Jute rugs are nature-friendly, and hence, they offer a rustic vibe to the space. Since jute is an eco-friendly option, it is perfect for those who love sustainable spaces. They also add warmth and texture to the room.

Style and color

Choosing the best area rugs for your home is never easy. They are available in various colors and styles, each crafted to suit the specific areas of the home. The traditional Persian and European style area rugs are slowly getting replaced by modern options such as geometric designs and bold florals. To avoid confusion, learn about the available styles and be specific about the ambiance you wish to create in your space. For example, the rug you choose for the living room area does not always need to match the decor. Instead, it should create a balance between the decor elements. 

Just like that, color is also an essential element to consider. Think about how the various colors complement the decor. For example, neutral-toned rugs are the best choice for a room with bright decor elements.

Budget

Budget is one among the crucial considerations when buying an area rug. Several factors affect the cost of the rugs, including the size, rug material, durability, overall quality, etc. Handmade rugs are often more expensive than machine-made ones owing to their durability and the better quality they offer. Having said that, if you're looking for inexpensive options that can still satisfy your needs, machine-made rugs could be the best choice for you. Not every machine-made rug would be cheaper. If budget is your first priority, nylon, olefin, or jute may be the best choices. To grab the best deals, keep an eye on festive day sales.

Room Specific Area Rug Suggestions

Below are some room-specific suggestions that'll help you choose the best area rug. 

Living room

The living room can be considered as the heart of a home where we gather with family, socialize, and relax. The best area rug for the living room complements the design elements while satisfying the functional needs. 

• Size: Most often, the large area rugs at a home are seen in the living rooms as it helps anchor the space. Look for a rug that can accommodate all the main furniture in the space, such as a sofa set. If that's not possible, try to keep at least the front legs of the chairs and sofa on the rug. The typical rug sizes for living rooms are 8 by 10 to 9 by 12 feet. Similarly, a 5 x 8 or 6 x 9 rug could work well in smaller living rooms. 

• Material: The durability, look, and the softness make wool rugs the best living room area rugs. Other alternatives also include synthetic or nylon rugs, owing to their resilient and easy-to-maintain nature. 

• Design: Choose colors and patterns that complement the existing decor. While bold designs can generate a statement, neutral tones offer a backdrop that can be used to balance the look.

Pro tip: Before you go area rug shopping, measure your seating area and opt for a rug with the nearest size up.

Bedroom

Choosing the right bedroom area rug can transform the look and functionality of the room. However, it is important to choose wisely, as a mistake can affect the overall look and atmosphere of the room.

• Size: A bedroom area rug should cover at least 24 inches of your bed's sides. Rugs measuring 8 x 10 or 9 x12 area rugs are ideal for king-size beds, while 6 x 9 or 8 x 10 rugs can suit queen cots. It is advisable that the legs of the footboards rest on the rugs you choose. Likewise, if you are planning to tuck the rug under the bed, ensure there's enough space on either side of the rug. If the rug's size is the same as that of the bed, the space may look too cramped.

• Material: For bedrooms, opt for rugs made from wool or high pile synthetic. Such materials can offer that plush look. You can also think about hypoallergenic options if you have allergies. 

• Design: Consider the room’s theme before finalising on a design. For instance, a vintage rug could add flair to a bohemian-themed bedroom, while a straightforward, monochromatic design would be the choice for a minimalistic space. 

Dining Room

Rugs in the dining room not only define the space, but also shield the floors from the daily wear and tear. They also sometimes act as a sound insulation which could be of the best use for open floor layouts. 

• Size: The rug you choose for the dining space should be spacious enough to accommodate the dining tables and chairs. It is always recommended to make sure that all edges of the rug extend at least 24 inches past the table so that chairs stay on it even when pulled out. Depending on the size of your dining table, the typical measurements could range from 8x10 or 9x12 feet.If the dining table is circular,  round rugs can be placed

• Material: Stains and spills are common in the dining area. Hence, choose stain resistant washable area rugs. Although wool rugs can be cleaned and are long-lasting, synthetic rugs composed from materials such as polypropylene are the best as they don't get stained easily.

• Design: Opt for patterned rugs for the dining space as they can hide the spills and stains to a certain extent. You may choose boho rugs for a more traditional look or geometric rugs or abstract design for a modern charm.

Kitchen

Kitchens are one of the most busiest areas at home and hence, they need rugs that are comfortable to stand on and easy to clean.

• Size: The right rug size for the kitchen differs based on the use and placement. For instance, if you are placing the rugs in front of sinks and stoves, 2x3 and 3x5 inch rugs would be the best choices; but, if you want to cover the entire space, you'll probably want to consider larger area rugs measuring 5x7, 6x9, or even 8x10 inches. 

• Material: Kitchen rugs often see a lot of spills, stains, and other messes. Hence, choose stain-resistant, washable rugs for the space.
 
• Design: Bright colored rugs can add a pop to the neutral tone interior while the minimalist designs can be enhanced by subdued tones. 

Entryways

An entryway rug can improve the aesthetic look, functionality, and overall charm of the space. They can reduce dirt tracking and protect the floors from constant stains. 

• Size: The entryway area rug should be large enough to allow foot movement and define the space. Most common entryway rug measurements are 3x5, 4x6, inches. While placing the rug, ensure there’s enough space between walls and rug edges. 

• Material: Because of the heavy foot traffic and exposure to dampness and grime, entryways require durable, stain-resistant rugs. Ideal rug materials include synthetic fibers, sisal, and coir. Also, try placing an outdoor area rug to further reduce the stains.

• Design: Though light colored rugs offer a welcoming vibe, dark patterned rugs can hide the dirt well. Whichever style you choose, make sure it blends with the interior. 

Maintenance Tips to Improve Durability

There are a few things you need to follow if you want your area rugs to remain clean and in excellent shape. Below are some of them.

• Rotate the rugs on a regular basis. This way, you can reduce the effects of constant foot traffic and exposure to sunlight.
• Vacuum the dry soil on your rugs frequently. For the rugs placed in the high traffic areas,  vacuum twice a week.
• Invest in a rug mat. Rug mats help minimize wear and tear in addition to keeping your rug from slipping. It is recommended to use a rubber mat for better results.
• Blot any spills on the carpet as soon as you see it using a tissue or clean cloth to prevent the liquid from seeping through.
• For woven rugs, look for stitch breaks in the rugs everytime after you clean. If they are washable, put them in a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase with a zipper.
• Rugs made of sisal, coir, rush, grass, etc., let dirt seep through. Most of these rugs are reversible. Hence, flip them every time you clean to ensure even wear.
• Rugs made of sheepskin, fur, etc. should be cleaned with unscented talcum powder. Once the powder has been brushed through the hair, shake it off and repeat the process until the whole rug is cleaned.  
• Seek professional help for deeper stains as regular cleaning methods may not remove them properly. 

Selecting the best area rug involves comparing several factors such as the size, rug material, style, budget, and more. Remember, the process of choosing the rug might feel overwhelming, but the right rug can definitely offer coziness, style, and warmth to a space. Whether you choose a boho rug or a modern geometric rug, make sure it perfectly compliments the look and practicality of the room. The wide range of options shouldn't overwhelm you. Use this guide as a reference, take your time, and compare the options available before making a decision.