Choosing the Perfect Rug: A Step-by-Step Guide

Any interior designer will tell you that no room is complete without a rug (myself included). Rugs can make or break a room's design, but choosing one can be complicated - especially if you're only just getting started in the world of home decor. In this article, I will introduce you to everything you need to know to find the perfect rug for your space!

What to Take into Consideration Before Buying a Rug

Before purchasing a rug, identify the purpose of the room where it will be placed. This is especially important, because depending on the room's traffic, aesthetics and functionality, you will pick your rug's material, pile length, size and design.

If you have pets or kids, you will likely want to choose rugs that are durable, have low pile and are easily maintained. The same applies for rooms with high traffic, such as the living room, kitchen and entryway. If you want to feel extra cozy in the living room or bedroom and don't mind higher maintenance, a high-pile rug can be the perfect choice for creating a warm and inviting space.

Size Matters

Start by considering your room's size and layout to determine if one larger rug or multiple smaller ones work best. When sizing an area rug, allow an 8 to 24 inch floor border on all sides. Make sure all furniture legs sit atop the rug. If not possible, front legs on and back legs off creates a pleasant balance. Avoid undersized rugs - they make rooms seem incomplete. When in doubt, always choose a larger size.

Photo by AshleyLynHome

For a perfect size fit, use tools like our free rug visualizer to see true-to-size rugs in your room with just a smartphone. This will help you find the best size for your room as well as show how different designs can look before you make a purchase decision.

Area rugs typically come in the following standard sizes:

Though these are standard dimensions, don't hesitate to customize proportions to best fit your living room layout. Rugs exist in multiple other sizes and can be styled differently depending on their size. Below you can find rug positioning ideas in living room depending on your couch design and rug size:

Choose the Right Fiber

From natural wools to easy-care synthetics, fiber characteristics and maintenance needs vary. Wool resists stains but costs more. Plant fibers like linen show wear, but cost less. Blends can be difficult to clean. For durability, indoor/outdoor synthetic rugs withstand spills and pets. Depending on your needs as well as the level of maintenance you're looking for, assess durability, softness and pricing to find the best fit.

Overview of Each Rug Material

• Wool: Natural wool rugs add soft warmth with stain resistance. The fiber is durable yet pricey, needing professional cleaning. Wool rugs are ideal for creating cozy, inviting spaces and work beautifully in living rooms and bedrooms.

Photo by El Peterson

Our 9 Recommended Wool Rugs that are durable and stain resistant:

Tip: Press the "View in AR" icon on each Rug to view it with your Room
• Sisal and Jute: Made from smooth, durable plant fibers. Sisal wears well over time, jute feels softer underfoot. Neutral colorations can take dye overlays. Spot clean only. These natural materials offer an eco-friendly option for casual, relaxed spaces.

Photo by @e.m.berggren

13 Best Sisal and Jute Rugs for texture and durability:

• Cotton: Lightweight cotton flatweaves provide a casual vibe. Ideal for summer rooms, cotton can handle machine washing. Perfect for creating airy, breathable spaces with easy maintenance.

Photo by Kelsey McGregor

Favorite Cotton Rugs that are easy to clean, soft and affordable:

• Synthetics: Both easy-clean nylon and polyester offer fade and stain resistance. Though nylon wears longer, polyester comes in endless colorful patterns. Modern synthetic rugs now feature performance finishes that balance luxury with livability.

Photo by Sherri Calnan

Synthetic Rugs for durability and easy maintenance:

• Viscose: With its affordable sheen, rayon mimics silk and wool. But the fiber lacks the durability and stain protection ideal for high-traffic areas. Better suited for bedrooms or formal spaces.
• Acrylic: Known for faux furs and hides, soft acrylic blends create style. This budget fiber's advantage lies in its ability to handle machine washing, making it