Rug Buying Guide

Choosing the right rug size

When it comes to choosing your perfect rug, start with size. Getting the scale and proportions right will maximise the flowing aesthetic and overall balance in your space. Be sure to measure the dimensions of your existing furniture so the lines of your new rug can fit comfortably.

Depending on the look you’re going for, or your budget, you can go for a Small rug to highlight a single piece like a one-seater, a Medium rug for your bedroom or home office, or a Large rug for a living room or dining table. High-quality Extra Large rugs are great for large living spaces, covering most of the floor to serve as an alternative to carpeting the whole room. Don’t be afraid to think outside the square and opt for a rug shape that complements your furniture piece’s shape, e.g. a round rug placed under a circular coffee table or side table.

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Whether you want your area rug to really pop with bright colours or to blend in with more neutral shades, is really a matter of preference. Your rug’s colour sets the tone for the rest of the room, from calming muted blues, vibrant orange to create a sense of energy or rich colours like burgundy or chocolate for cosiness. Pastels and bright colours will help to make smaller spaces feel bigger and more open.

Active family homes and high-traffic areas are bound to attract mess. In-between colours, multi-colour rugs, and other indoor rugs with different patterns and spots are less likely to reveal dirt, pet hair, or stains.

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For areas with heavy traffic like hallways and open-plan living rooms, look for hardwearing materials like low-pile wool that will be more resilient over time. Another key feature to look for is a rug with a non-slip backing/underlay. This will reduce the rug’s movement, keeping it in place and retaining that neat look.

Synthetic materials like viscose, nylon, and polypropylene are ideal for kitchens, dining rooms, and other areas prone to getting wet as they offer better water-resistance. Outdoor rugs commonly benefit from the water-resistance offered by synthetic fibres. Wool also provides this water resistance to a lesser extent, although generally only if it receives an occasional drop.

If you’re going to be planting your feet down on the rug for extended periods of time, treat yourself to some luxury with a high pile rug. Great for your living room, the thick, soft surface will feel wonderful under your feet. This is where wool rugs are at their best.

Tips

- A rug defines an area or highlights a piece of furniture. Use it to establish your living area space or the focal point of your living area.

- Symmetry is satisfying and consistency is key. Align the edges of the rug with other lines in the room, and ensure it lies under each furniture leg by the same amount.

- A floor rug under a dining table should be wide enough to sit under every chair, even when they’re pulled out.

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From classically handsome to contemporary beauty, it isn’t hard to find a wide range of rug styles including Traditional, Scandinavian, Persian, Wool, Bohemian, and Handmade. With so many possibilities, it generally comes down to personal preference. Fancy and intricate designs can give rugs plenty of character and provide an added sense of flair to your space. But a solid colour isn’t to be overlooked, these go-to rugs provide a great foundation for enhancing the overall look of your room and existing home decor.

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Occasional maintenance will help to prolong the life of your rug. Give it a quick vacuum once a week on the lowest setting to pick up dust and dirt. Rugs will naturally mature with time and use, giving them each their own unique character. But you should rotate the rug every 3-6 months to reduce uneven wear and any sun fading.

For the inevitable spills and stains blot, don’t rub. Act quick and first blot the stain with a dry cloth or paper towel to soak up the moisture. Then spot clean and blot with water and a small amount of detergent to loosen and remove the rest of the stain.