A Guide to Purchasing The Right Rug for You
We all know that purchasing the right rug can be a bit of a challenge. There are a lot of factors to consider and it can honestly get a bit overwhelming. Rugs are often an investment piece, so it’s important to get it right the first time. I’ve put together a small guide to help you on your journey to the perfect rug for you.
Rug Materials
There’s more to a rug then just it’s good looks. Did you know that there are many different kinds of materials that are used to create your favourite rugs? The rugs material is one of the most important factors to consider before purchasing. It can determine the look, feel, lifespan and care of your rug. Some of these materials are better suited for different areas of your home.
Source: Studio McGee
Wool
Mm imagine your favourite wool sweater underneath your barefoot. Wool rugs are highly durable. The fibers within the wool will continue to bounce back for years to come as they are crush-resistant. The natural oils of the wool will repel water, dust and dirt. Recommend spot clean only.
Where to use this rug: living room, bedroom.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is an affordable wool alternative. This type of rug is extremely durable, water-resistant and easy to clean. The fibers are actually synthetic making them great for high traffic areas. They are blanket soft and mimic a wool feel.
Where to use this rug: entrance, living room, bedroom, dining room etc.
Cotton
Cotton rugs are perfect if you’re looking for a nice relaxed and natural look. Although these rugs are less durable and not meant for high traffic areas in your home. They stain easily as they are highly absorbent. For a smaller rug you can machine wash them on a gentle cycle.
Where to use this rug: bedroom
Silk
Silk is most often combined with a wool as silk on its own is less durable. Silk rugs provide a luxurious look to any room and will give you that stylish designer look. Professional clean only.
Where to use this rug: living room, bedroom
Viscose
Viscose rugs are soft man-made fabric with a beautiful sheen. They are smooth with a low pile and less expensive than a silk or wool. The thin material is great for creating a romantic and intimate feeling. These rugs are best suited for lower traffic areas. Recommend professional cleaning.
Where to use this rug: bedroom
Jute and Sisal
These natural fiber rugs are highly durable. They have a rope-like construction to them which gives off a chunky, woven, relaxed look to them. They are less expensive than most of the other materials. The neutral beige of the jute makes them perfect for almost any space. They are also great when layered with another more vibrant rug adding more visual interest.
Where to use this rug: entryway, dining room, bedroom, living room etc.
Nylon
This type of rug material is extremely durable. Nylon is firm, flat and resistant to fraying and dirt. Great for any area of your home.
Where to use this rug: entryway, dining room, bedroom, living room etc.
Polyester
Polyester is an affordable alternative to natural fiber rugs. This is rug is stain-resistant making it great if you have young children. They are also fade-resistant, keeping their colourful appearance for longer. With regular vacuuming and spot cleaning these rugs will continue to look great for years.
Where to use this rug: entryway, dining room, bedroom, living room etc.
Rug Sizing
Buying the right sized rug for your space is extremely important. I can not stress this enough! If you have a beautiful room and the wrong sized rug, it can potentially throw off your entire design. Below, I’ve outlined my recommended rug sizes for your living room, dining room and bedroom.
Source: Lindsey Brook Designs
Living Room
Typically, an 8x10 or 9x12 rug will work great in this space.
Important details to keep in mind: The front legs of your furniture should be placed on the rug, (if not all legs) so that the rug doesn’t feel like its floating in the middle of the room and the space feels connected. Also, the rug should have about 6-12” on each side of the sofa. I like to see about 12-18” between the rug and the wall as well.
Source: Lindsey Brook Designs
Dinning Room
6x9 or 8x10 rugs work well under a dining table.
Important details to keep in mind: The rug should extend one to two feet past the end of the chairs. You should be able to pull out your dining chair and it still be sitting on the rug. Nothing worse than a dining chair getting caught up on the edge of your rug! Make sure to leave at least one foot of floor around the perimeter of the room.
Source: Heidi Hodges Design
Bedroom
King Bed:
Typical size: 9x12
Important details to keep in mind: make sure the rug extends about one to two feet from the end of the bed. Your rug can sit under all of the furniture, including nightstands and bed or it can sit only under the bed. Make sure to leave at least 8” of space from the nightstands to the beginning of the rug.
Queen Bed:
Typical size: 8x10
Important details to keep in mind: Make sure the rug has at least 8” of space on the sides of the bed. Again, have the rug extend about one to two feet from the end of your bed.
Designer Tip!
BUY A RUG PAD! It adds comfort and it prevents your rug from sliding around!
Hope this guide helps you on your journey to find that perfect rug.
Xo Charlee