Tips to Choose the Perfect Rug For Your Space
Here are a few other tips and tricks to keep in mind before purchasing a rug.
- A general rule is to match your rug shape to your table shape. If your kitchen or dining table is round, use a round rug. If you have a rectangular table, use a rectangular rug.
- If a room feels lifeless, add texture with a jute or sisal rug. If you want something softer underfoot, use a larger jute rug as your base and layer a smaller rug on top.
- Read cleaning instructions carefully before purchasing, and be realistic about your lifestyle. Do you have kids or pets? If so, you should probably avoid thick-shag or sheepskin rugs, as crumbs and pet hair can get embedded in them.
- If you’re unsure about sizing, recreate the rug in the desired room with painters tape. It’s an easy way to see if it feels too big, too small, or just right for your space.
Choose the Right Size Area Rug For Your Room
One of the most important factors to consider when selecting an area rug is size. If a rug is too big, it can look like wall-to-wall carpet. If a rug isn’t big enough, the furniture looks like it’s floating, and the room appears smaller. Here are some general guidelines to follow in each room.
Placing Rugs in the Living Room
If you have a solid color sofa or couch, pick a patterned area rug. The rug's colors can match the throw pillows, drapes and other décor accents in the room. If your sofa has a pattern, choose a solid rug that complements the décor in the room.
An area rug in the living room helps frame the space. We recommend having the front legs of all the bigger upholstered furniture on the rug. The smaller pieces, like a center table, pouf or statement furniture, should be completely on the rug. For a bigger space, divide the room into conversation areas and place different area rugs in each space. Make sure that the area rugs complement each other.
Dining Room Rug Placement
For the dining area, pick an area rug in a darker color, it makes spills and stains less visible. If you have your heart set on a light color rug, choose a rug with pattern. Stains don’t stand out on a patterned rug as much as on a light, solid-color rug.
With dining rooms, the table and all of the chairs should fit comfortably on the rug. You should also be able to push your chair back from the table and still have the legs on the rug.
Rug Placement for Bedroom
To decide the rug's color, look at your bed linens, throws or drapes for inspiration. Find a rug with colors that match your bedroom décor. When in doubt pick a solid rug, like a white or beige shag rug, to bring texture and warmth to your space.
In bedrooms, you can use an area rug in a few ways. The first option is to use a large rug that fits under the bed and the side tables, extending a few extra inches on the sides. The second is to place a medium rug under your bed so that the top one-third is not on the rug. The third is to add runners on either side of the bed.
How to Use Rugs in a Kitchen
Runner rugs work well in kitchens. They typically measure 2 feet to 3 feet wide and 6 feet to 16 feet long. If you stand in your kitchen for long periods of time, select an anti-fatigue rug. Use anti-skid rug pads with your rugs to avoid slipping.
Rugs for Playroom or Nursery
Kids' rugs or nursery rugs should be big enough for your kids to run, roll, play and crawl on. Based on the room's layout, pick the right size and shape, keeping in mind the furniture in the room. The material of the rug depends on your kids' ages. If they’re crawling and doing tummy time, choose a comfy shag or soft woven rugs. Pick a low-pile, easy-to-clean rug in a durable polyester or nylon if you have kids running around with shoes on. Use anti-skid rug pads with your rugs to avoid slipping.
Entryway Rug Placement
Based on the layout, decide on the size and shape of your entryway rug. To start, center the rug in front of the door or the entryway table. If it’s a high-traffic area, choose low-pile washable rugs. Keep a gap of 12 inches to 24 inches between the walls and the ends of the rugs.
Bathroom Rugs
Place a runner or two small mats in front of a double vanity. Choose cotton or synthetic bathroom rugs that dry quickly. Bath mats are smaller and more absorbent than rugs. They are perfect for placing in front of sinks, bathroom stalls, and tubs.
Indoor or Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs are no longer just meant for patios or decks. Bring them inside for a durable and easy-to-maintain solution. Place these fade-resistant rugs in high-traffic areas like the entryway, living room, or kids’ playroom. The different styles and colors make them an easy addition to any room.
Types of Rugs
A great rug is the foundation of good room design. A bright, bold floral or Persian rug can transform a bland, monotone dining room. A black and white rug looks chic and modern in a living room. Deep-pile rugs provide coziness and warmth to bedrooms. We’ll explore the most popular types of rugs that’ll be stylish additions to your home.
