The Ultimate Guide to Area Rugs
Learn everything you need to know about finding the right area rug for your home with this comprehensive guide.
Design: Terracotta Design Build
From selecting a new rug to caring for an existing one, this comprehensive guide contains everything you need to know about area rugs. Read on to get our editors' best rug advice.
Design: Veneer Designs
Rug Shape and Size
When beginning your search for a new area rug, first determine the shape and size your space requires. Knowing the right size and shape will help narrow down your options.
There are seven common rug shapes, but the most popular are rectangular, runner, and round. Rectangular rugs can be used in all rooms, while round rugs are most popular in entryways or dining rooms. Runners often line hallways, staircases, and kitchens for added style
and comfort.
Get More:
How to Choose a Rug Size
Rug Shape Guide
Rug Material and Construction
Material and construction will determine whether your area rug will last 20 years or just a few. Before making a purchase, decide if you want a handmade or machine-made rug, and a tufted or woven rug. Handmade rugs can last for decades, but are often more expensive than less-durable, machine-made rugs. Though the majority of rugs are tufted, woven rugs have longer life spans.
From natural fibres (wool, cotton, jute) to synthetic alternatives (nylon or polypropylene), each rug material has its pros and cons, so consider what's best for your home.
Get More:
Rug Materials Guide
Rug Construction Techniques
Tip!
Area rugs—especially those with patterns—help set the tone of a room. Brush up on the Top 15 Common Patterns before you begin shopping.
Indoor Rugs
From the entryway to the bedroom, area rugs can complete the look of a room, set the tone, and add an extra layer of comfort—or all three!
While rugs in the living and dining rooms are a must, try rugs in rooms you wouldn't normally consider. Rugs in a kids' space can protect floors (carpet or wood) from unwanted spills, stains, and scratches. Instead of a bath mat, opt for a runner in a bathroom for a sophisticated look.
Get More :
Top 10 Area Rugs
A Guide to Using Area Rugs in the Bedroom
Choose an Area Rug for Your Entryway
Top 10 Kids' Rugs
Tip!
Use our Home Colour Guide for Beginners to help determine what colour rug will fit best with your existing decor.
Outdoor Rugs
Give your outside spaces the comfort and style of your indoor rooms with an outdoor rug. These rugs are made of fade- and stain-resistant synthetic fabrics (acrylic, polypropylene, etc.) to stand up to the elements.
Pro Tip! Use an indoor/outdoor rug inside for high-traffic areas of your home (entryway, mudroom, kitchen) as they're often more durable than indoor-only versions.
Get More:
Outdoor Rug Buying Guide
How to Decorate with Outdoor Rugs
Rug Care and Maintenance
Extend the life of your rug with proper care and maintenance. Dirt particles can break down the rug fibres, so regular shaking and vacuuming is necessary. Also, rotating the rug every six months will protect against uneven wear.
Rug pads prevent rugs from slipping, provide extra cushion, protect your floors, and much more, so be sure to pick up a properly fitting pad when you purchase a new area rug.
Get More:
Rug Care and Maintenance Guide
Tip!
Still have questions? Get the answers to five of the most common rug dilemmas with our Area Rug Q&A.
