Shopping Tips For Buying Area Rugs & Carpets

Shopping Tips For Buying Area Rugs & Carpets

When it comes to home decor, area rugs often play a silent yet significant role. These floor coverings have the power to tie a room together, add warmth and create a welcoming environment. They effortlessly elevate the aesthetics of any space, from the living room to the bedroom. With their ability to define areas and create visual interest, area rugs are like the unsung heroes of interior design. 

Now, you might be wondering why investing in high-quality area rugs is worth it. These rugs are more than just fancy floor accessories. They are crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring durability that stands the test of time. From their exquisite patterns, high-quality area rugs add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your home. Plus, they provide comfort underfoot, making your space cosy. 

Now that we have established the importance and benefits of area rugs, it’s time to embark on a journey to find the perfect rug for your place. This blog is your ultimate guide, filled with smart, intelligent and fun tips to help you navigate the vast world of area rugs. From choosing the right size and material to understanding quality and maintenance, we cover it all. So get ready to dive into the secrets of area rug selection and make a decision that will make your space truly remarkable. 

Consider Your Space

Measure the area 

Before you embark on your area rug shopping adventure, it’s essential to get your measurements right. Take the help of your tape and measure the exact dimensions of the space where you plan to place your rug. You don’t want to end up with a rug that’s too small or too large, like a mismatched sock in a drawer full of perfectly paired ones! 

Consider your room’s purpose

Think about how the room will be used. Is it a cosy living room? Or perhaps it is an entrance hallway. Understanding the purpose of the room will help you choose a rug that can withstand the demands of its inhabitants and ensure it compliments the whole vibe. 

Calculate the rug size and shape that best fits the space

Now comes the fun part- selecting the perfect size and shape for your rug! Whether you opt for a rectangular rug or a round one, consider the proportions of the room and the arrangement of your furniture. You want your rug to create a harmonious balance and tie the space together. 

Choose the Right Material 

While selecting the perfect area rug, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right material. The material not only determines the rug's look but also its durability and maintenance. Let’s dig into the pros and cons and tips for buying area rugs. 

Pros and Cons of Each Material 

Wool Rugs

The king of rug materials, wool offers exceptional durability, resistance and softness. It’s a great insulator and can handle high foot traffic. However, wool rugs require professional cleaning and are more on the expensive side. 

Synthetic Fibres

Nylon and polyester rugs are known for their affordability, easy maintenance and wide range of colours. They are resistant to stains and fading. But they lack natural texture and softness. 

Natural Fibres

Jute, hemp rugs bring an eco-friendly touch to any space. They are durable and affordable. However, they may not be the softest underfoot.  

Factors to Consider when Selecting the Material for Area Rugs 
  • Durability: Assess the rug’s intended location and level of foot traffic to determine the material's durability 
  • Maintenance: Consider the cleaning and maintenance needs of the material, especially if you have pets and children. 
  • Comfort: Think about the level of comfort you desire underfoot. Wool offers luxurious softness, while synthetic divers provide a more budget-friendly option. 

Determine the Style and Design

Traditional rugs exude timeless elegance, while modern rugs boast sleek lines and bold patterns. Transitional rugs blend the best of both worlds of classic and contemporary. Envision the overall vibe you want with your rug.

Consider your existing decor and colour scheme for guidance. Your rug should complement the surrounding furniture. If you have a neutral colour palette, a vibrant rug can add a pop of character. And if your rig already has bold colours then a more subtle rug can provide harmony.

Patterns can add depth and visual interest to a room. Geometric patterns are perfect for modern spaces, while floral motifs can bring a touch of nature indoors. Textures, such as woven or shag rugs, provide textile pleasure and are inviting. 

Quality and Durability of an Area Rug 

Construction

When inspecting a rug, pay attention to its construction. Hand-knotted rugs are masterpieces. Hand-tufted rugs are created using handheld tools that punch yarn into fabric. Machine-made rugs are produced with precision using technology. Remember, the construction method affects their cost as well. 

Density and Pile Height

Get up close and personal with rug’s divers. Check the density, which refers to the number of knots or stitches per square. A higher density usually means better quality. And pile height means a thicker pile offers more luxurious comfort than a low pile height. Strike a balance between comfort and your needs. 

Backing and Edges

Flip the rug over and inspect its back and edges. A sturdy and tightly woven backing indicates good quality. Choose rugs with double or triple layers of backing for durability. Pay attention to the edges to prevent fraying over time. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, we have explored a plethora of tips to help you navigate the exciting world of area rugs and make an informed purchase. With all these tips for buying area rugs in your back pocket, you are now well-equipped to find a perfect area rug that will elevate your home decor. 

Go forth and explore the wonderful world of area rugs-happy rug hunting. 

FAQs related to Tips For Buying Area Rugs

1. What you should know before buying a rug?

Firstly, consider the size of the place and the placement of your furniture. Then pick the size and shape of the rug along with the material and type. Make sure to pick a colour that goes with the decor. Don't forget to consider your budget. 

2. What to avoid when buying an area rug?

You should avoid buying rugs that are too small or too large for your desired space, this can make the rug look out of place. You should also avoid buying the wrong material for the wrong space, for example buying a wool rug for an outdoor space. 

3. How do I know what size area rug to buy?

Measure the area of the room or the space for your area rug. See the furniture placement and pick a rug that fits well, basically one that is not too small or too large for that space. Refer to rug placement guide to know more about the size of the rug for different rooms.

Written by Shivangi Singh

Back to blog