The Complete Guide to Selecting the Perfect Rug for Your Home
A rug is something I would like to consider non-negotiable. Rugs ground each space they’re in and create a warm and inviting approach to every room. We often see rugs that are selected without thought for their intended space. Whether it be the size, shape, material and even colour – rugs can make or break a room.
In this guide we have outlined tips to help ease the purchasing of your next rug.
Tips for Purchasing the Right Rug for a Living Room
Make sure you purchase a rug large enough to fit the front legs of all furniture onto the rug. Be sure to leave a minimum of 6”-10” of rug on either side of the furniture as well.
Typically a living room will have enough room for an 8’x10’, 9’x12’ or larger depending on the size of the room. It is always better to choose a little larger than too small (as long as it isn’t touching any walls/trim). If the rug is too small, it will make the room feel small.
Pro tip: Use green painters tape and map out the dimensions of the rug on the floor before purchasing if you are unsure of the size that you need for the space.
Tips for Purchasing the Right Rug for a Bedroom
The size of the bed in the room will need to be considered as well as the dimensions of the room itself. Generally speaking you should leave about 8” of space from the front of the night stands to the beginning of the rug and about 12” past the foot of the bed.
King Bed: When purchasing a rug for a bedroom that has a king bed in it, typically you’d be looking for a 9’ x12’ rug.
Queen Bed: The typical size rug for a queen bed is 8’x10’ (you don’t want your rug to extend past the night stands in width)
Tips for Purchasing the Right Rug for a Dining Room
It is important to ensure that all chairs are on the rug, and to have approximately 8”-10” of rug extended past the table and chairs.
The size of the rug can vary based on the size of the table and room. If you factor in the above criteria it should be easier to determine which is the best fit for your dining room.
Average sizes are 6’x9’ 8’x10’ and 9’x12’.
FAQS – Frequently Asked Questions
What material should I consider when selecting a rug?
In high-traffic areas, or homes with children and pets we like to suggest either a polyester or wool rug like these favourite vintage inspired rugs. These rugs are great to spot clean and cozy in everyday living spaces.
For families that feel more comfortable with a washable rug, these Ruggable rugs are a no-brainer under dining room tables and mudroom spaces that might require regular cleaning. They aren’t as luxurious on the feet, but help ground a space with ease and add the necessary visual interest to any room.
Do all the rugs in my home need to match?
The short answer is no, however they should compliment one another. When it comes to decor and general design style, your home should feel connected and cohesive, it is important to generate a direction or theme throughout your home but not necessarily have everything match. We find pairing a louder rug with pattern and colour in one space, with a softer or muted rug in an adjacent room is the best way to ensure fluidity from one space to the next.
I have a carpeted bedroom, can I still have an area rug?
You bet! It works best with a carpet that is low pile. Be sure to follow the same guidelines in this guide to ensure a proper fit.
What is low pile vs high pile or shag?
Low pile rugs have tighter and shorter loops within the carpet. Typically low piles are recommended in high traffic areas or homes with pets and children. They are also great for anyone who may suffer from allergies as they are less likely to gather allergens.
High pile and shag have looser and taller loops. They have a luxury feel on your feet and are very cozy to the touch. They do however have the ability to snag more frequently due to their loose loops but they can be a great touch to a bedroom or low traffic space.
