How To Choose An Area Rug
The perfect area rug can help bring a room together. The traditional rule of thumb is to always measure the seating area and select a rug the next closest size up. This allows all of the furniture legs to rest on the rug for a unified look.
For a more modern look, our we recommend that you break the rules using smaller rugs that fit the front furniture legs (or no furniture legs) can look great, too. Additionally, we suggest that you try filling the entire room with your area rug. To have this accomplished, measure your room and select a size that allows for at least 2 feet of floor space to show on the rug’s perimeter.
Another alternative option is to layer rugs. A smaller area rug atop a larger one helps define seating areas and creates visual interest. Use carpet tape to keep the rug safely in place.
Tip #1
We recommend that you use furniture coasters under furniture legs to protect your area rug.
Tip #2
To get an idea of how a particular sized area rug would look in your space, lay a bedsheet folded to that size on the floor where you’re considering placing your rug.
Dining Room Area Rugs
For the best area area rug fit in your dining area, we recommend that you measure the length and width of the table and choose an area rug that is at least 2 feet larger on each side. This will allow an ample amount of room for your guests’ chairs to sit comfortably on the area rug.
Kitchen Area Rugs
Area rugs in front of the sink or stove help relieve pain in the feet, legs and lower back. Whether you multiple small rugs or a a stylish runner rug, we usually recommend that you keep it about 6 inches away from the cabinets. If your area rug does not have a slip-resistant backing, our Rug Sales Specialist suggest that you place a rug pad underneath to help prevent slips and falls.
Bedroom Area Rugs
Use an area rug to make the bed the main focal point of the bedroom. We typically recommend that you measure the space for an area rug that extends 24 inches to each side of the bed, unless it’s on a wall. And do not be afraid to layer area rugs either.
Another alternative option is to use a runner rug along each side of the bed – on hard floors or atop existing carpeting – to create a soft, warm place for your feet in the morning.
Entryway Area Rugs
The ideal rug in any space makes a great first impression. Our Area Rug Sale Experts recommend that you look for something wider than the doorway for comfortable greetings and departures.
Hallway and Passageway Area Rugs
A runner rug is an incredible solution for hallways and passageways. Make sure you have 6 inches of floor space on all sides of the runner for the most comfortable fit.
Area Rug Shapes
Do not be scared to use shapes other than a rectangle for your rugs. Round area rugs are magnificent for seating vignettes, passageways and entrances. Also consider square area rugs, runners, oblong or animal-skin shaped rugs.
Area Rug Colors
To coordinate your area rug color with an existing color palette, our rug sales experts advise you to follow the 60-30-10 rule.
- About 60% of the room is your dominant color; such as the walls or the largest piece of furniture.
- 30% is a secondary color – this is where your rug color choice comes in.
- Finally, 10% is an accent color, such as vases and lamps. Accents should be a color from the area rug that is not dominant or secondary so the entire room fits together nicely.
Area Rug Pattern
Before choosing a patterned area rug, consider your space first. Do you have patterned walls or furniture? If so, it might be best to decide on a subtly patterned area rug. If your space is filled with solid color, a bold or bright pattern may bring things to life.
Area Rug Traffic
When purchasing an area rug, consider foot traffic. Low pile works best in high-traffic areas, as it hides tracks a little easier. A detailed pattern is also helpful in high-traffic areas, as it helps hide stains. High-pile area rugs are soft, making them incredible for bedrooms and sitting areas.
Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers Area Rugs
Before buying an area rug, we suggest that you consider the material it’s made of. Natural fibers, such as wool or cotton, look gorgeous and feel outstanding, but some are more susceptible to staining and fading. More-affordable synthetic area rugs resist staining and fading better.
Selecting Your Area Rug Pad
Rug pads keep your area rug properly positioned, preventing it from slipping. Rug pads also:
- Reduce wear and tear on the rug
- Help to absorb the impact of feet and noise
- Make vacuuming your rug easier
- Protect smooth-surface flooring, like hardwood and laminate, from being scratched by the back of the rug
For area rugs placed over carpet, use carpet tape or a rug pad. When choosing a pad, look for thin polyester fabric coated with adhesive. This type of pad prevents dark area rug color from bleeding through on a light carpet.
A pad made from slightly heavier polyester coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) holds an area rug firmly on wood or other smooth-surfaced flooring and will not damage the surface.