How to Choose a New Rug You Won't Regret Buying

Earlier this week, I was pulling the threads out of my beloved living room rug and vacuuming them with my dustbuster. At that moment, I decided that this week, I would write about how to buy a new rug you won't regret. I think this research will come in handy for all of us–especially me after I made a questionable President's Day rug purchase last year.

Last year, a local furniture store emailed me about its President's Day sale, as any store with a great marketing department might be expected to do. My husband and I had been talking for YEARS about buying a new couch, and they were advertising a teal L-shaped sofa that would match our living room vibes perfectly. So we made our first questionable decision and drove and walked into the store.

I wanted to see it in person to check out the fabric because I didn't want our cats to be able to scratch it easily. Upon inspection, we agreed it was a nice, thick fabric that wouldn't snag or scratch easily; we decided to go for it! Yay us! We had chosen the first brand-new couch we would buy ourselves in 17 years of marriage.

Before leaving the furniture store, we decided to just walk around and see what else there was. Why would you do that when you had already picked out a couch, Jen? Such a good question! We rounded the final corner around the store and entered the rug section. "Oh! We should look at the rugs," I said as another salesperson led us to a giant stack of them and started flipping them over, one by one.

The last rug I bought was too small, so I wanted a bigger, better one for when this new couch arrived! They had them all: hand-knotted, flatweave, hand-tufted, and many more. It was a lot to take in. Now that I think of it, it's possible that I was hypnotized by the process, but it's more likely that I was just completely overwhelmed.

She left us to look at the rugs, and I found one hanging up that was Perfect with a capital 'P.' It was the perfect shade of blue and had these super-soft, shimmery threads throughout. It was a splurge, but it would pull the whole look together. So, we added it to our order, financed it in true President's Day furniture-buying fashion, and waited a week or so for it to arrive at our house.

We unrolled that beautiful rug, and I was over the moon, just so freaking happy with my choice. It was softer than I remembered and matched everything perfectly. As soon as I finished walking across it barefoot, our cats also decided to come to see what all the fuss was about. Except they did more than walk across it.

They sunk their claws into it and pulled out lots of those soft, shimmery little threads. I considered returning it that first night but was afraid it would be too much of a hassle, or they would see what the cats had done. After a few more days, I decided it was too late to return to the store because they had pulled so many threads out, but maybe I could sell it on Facebook Marketplace. But I never did, and instead, I just kept dust-busting it because I was afraid the actual vacuum cleaner would make the entire thing unravel.

When I say I have thrown away handfuls of my rug, it's not an exaggeration. I guess one benefit of a quality rug is that there are still lots of threads left. But you can only imagine it if you've experienced the same rug/cat phenomenon. It's not a great feeling, especially when it's a rug you love. Thankfully, I can say the sofa fabric has held up to cat claws. And I still love the rug, but I don't love pulling the halfway-loosened threads out myself only to vacuum them up.

I know there is a wonderful world of affordable rugs out there, and maybe I could have found a similar rug for less. Or perhaps I could have done a better job researching which rugs are less easily destroyed by cats if I wanted to splurge on a nice living room rug. In this article, I will share some of the best tips I have found to help me (and you, too!) save some stress in the rug-buying process.

1: Choose the Right Size Rug for Each Room

One of the most common rug-buying regrets is getting the wrong size. Given the number of rug sizes available, it's easy to see why this is a common mistake. As the Queen of rug-buying regret, I have also experienced this regret.

A too-small rug can make a room feel disjointed, while an oversized one might overwhelm it. Luckily, rugs can be layered and easily moved to a new space if they aren't working out how you had hoped. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right size rug for your space.

They're a little boring but necessary tips to follow if you want to get the rug size right the first time...

Living Room

Ideally, all furniture legs should sit on the rug to protect the floor from the furniture and enhance the overall aesthetic. If that’s not possible, the front legs of sofas and chairs should be on the rug. Keep in mind the space between sofas. You should also ensure that 12-18 inches of the floor is visible around the edges to help create a sense of balance.

Measure a couple of times to ensure you get the living room rug size right. It's worth ensuring that you don't have a tiny rug—we've been there, done that—or the hassle of returning or reselling an area rug that doesn't fit in the room!

Dining Room

Choose a rug large enough that the chairs will remain on it even when pulled out. If you're not sure how much extra space the chairs need, a good rule of thumb is to have at least 24 inches of extra rug space beyond the edges of the table.

Bedroom

For the coziest feel, a rug should extend at least 18-24 inches beyond the sides of the bed. Alternatively, runners placed along both sides of the bed can be another great option for smaller bedrooms. A rug at the foot of the bed can create a central point in the room and make the bed area feel more approachable. Also, layering rugs of different textures and patterns can create a more modern look.

Hallway or Entryway

Ensure (at least!) a few inches of space between the rug edges and the walls. Likewise, runners should be long enough to extend most of the hallway while allowing some floor space to be visible.

Home Office

If you place a rug under a desk, make sure it extends beyond the chair's rolling area to prevent catching on the rug edges. If you don't get it right, this one could be a safety hazard.

2: Choose the Right Rug Material

The material of your rug affects its durability, comfort, and maintenance. Here are some popular options:

Wool Rugs

Wool rugs are soft, durable, and naturally stain-resistant, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas in your home. Since wool is one of the oldest materials used to make rugs, it is often used to make traditional Oriental or Persian rugs with a medium-pile height. Of course, wool rugs come in a variety of pile heights and styles, and the wool is often combined with other materials (like nylon) to help bring the cost down.

A rug made entirely of wool will usually be pricier than rugs made of other materials, but they can be a great long-term investment because they don't usually shed a ton, hold their shape when cleaned, and they are so soft.

Cotton Rugs

Lightweight and affordable, cotton rugs work well in casual spaces but may wear out faster. They are actually a comfortable choice for high-maintenance areas because they are easy to clean (often machine washable) and more affordable to replace. Some of the most popular types of cotton rugs include entryway runners, kitchen runners, and bathroom rugs.

Tip: Since cotton rugs are thinner than other rugs, you should definitely place a rug pad underneath to help keep a cotton rug in place and make it more comfortable to walk on!

Jute & Sisal Rugs

Natural fiber rugs add texture but can be rough underfoot and tricky to clean. They add warmth and texture to your room and can add visual interest when layered with other kinds of rugs. Placing a jute rug under a cotton or wool rug and leaving a border of about a foot around the edges can help create a more organic aesthetic. These rugs may shed; sisal and seagrass rugs usually have a cotton border to keep them from fraying.

Many people like to use these rugs in the living room for a more natural aesthetic, in a casual dining area, or in a coastal or farmhouse-style hallway.

Synthetic (Polyester, Nylon, or Polypropylene) Rugs

Budget-friendly and stain-resistant, synthetic rugs are ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with kids or pets. These are usually machine-woven, plush, and made to look like more expensive wool or cotton rugs. These days, many synthetic rugs are machine washable, which is a lifesaver when you're dealing with kids or pets. People tend to appreciate synthetic fibers for wall-to-wall carpeting and many washable rugs perfect for the living room, dining room, and kitchen.

Many people value natural, safe materials for their homes. Synthetic rugs may be cute and affordable, but they might also be toxic. A rug the cats can shred may be preferable to one that emits harmful chemicals. If you want to ensure that your rug is non-toxic, you should check out the top 11 non-toxic rugs that you can count on to improve the indoor air quality of your home–or at least not make it worse!

3: Understand Different Weaving Techniques

Rugs are made using various weaving methods, which affect their texture, durability, and overall aesthetic. This is where I should have paid more attention and educated myself. I'm pretty sure that the rug my cats love so much is hand-tufted, making it more prone to shedding and cat claw damage.

Here are the most common types of weaving techniques and some important things to note about each:

Hand-Knotted Rugs

Highly durable and intricate, these rugs are woven by hand using a knotting technique, making each piece unique. They are often made using the best-quality wool or silk, and they can have knots over knots, making the designs more intricate than any other rugs.

Also, as the name suggests, each rug is hand-knotted, so that means that it has been made by human hands rather than a machine and no two hand-knotted rugs are exactly alike. Talk about an investment piece that tells a story!

Hand-Tufted Rugs

Created using a tufting gun that punches yarn through a fabric backing, hand-tufted rugs are more affordable than hand-knotted ones but still offer a handmade feel. Tufted carpets can be mistaken for hand-knotted ones, but you can tell the difference because a tufted carpet usually has a white latex canvas back. These rugs can also shed more than other styles.

This is the type of rug that my cats have decided to sink their claws into! Proceed with caution with a hand-tufted rug if you have feline friends at your house.

Flatweave Rugs

Woven on a loom without a pile, flatweave rugs (such as kilims and dhurries) are lightweight and reversible. They have no pile, so you can trust that they will not shed at all. Made on a loom rather than hand-knotted or tufted, they are often quite flat and often made using wool. Because they're made using wool, like the lovely neutral-colored flatweave rug pictured below, they are also durable and stain-resistant for the most part. Oh! And most of the time, they are reversible, too.

Flatweave rugs can be used in pretty much any room, but they are thin, so you don't want to forget the rug pad!

Machine-Made Rugs

Manufactured using power looms, these rugs are cost-effective and available in a wide range of styles. Machine-made or powerloomed rugs typically blend wool with synthetic fibers like polypropylene or nylon, and other materials like polyester and acrylic. This makes the fibers more durable than wool on its own, and also makes the rugs more affordable. You can tell when a rug is machine-made because it is usually serged around the edges, as you can see in this adorable Moroccan-style boho rug below.

Braided Rugs

Made by intertwining strips of fabric or yarn, braided rugs can add a rustic, cozy touch to a space or an artsy handmade aesthetic. Some are made using cotton, while others are made using more durable wool. They are also reversible, like flateweave rugs. I can imagine they also require a rug pad to keep them in place. But, what a fun way to add style and visual interest to your home–and affordable too, if this multicolored rug is any indication.

Hooked Rugs

Featuring loops of yarn pulled through a backing, hooked rugs have a soft, textured surface. They are handmade using a needle-like tool and often have a backing that helps support the design to stay together. Although they are handmade, they are not as expensive as hand-knotted rugs.

4: Pick a Style That Complements Your Space

A rug should enhance your decor rather than compete with it. I have written before about furniture styles and the people who love them. Consider your furniture style when choosing a new rug! Here are a few rug styles–and the decor styles they complement.

Traditional Rugs

Classic patterns like Persian or Oriental styles bring warmth and elegance. Ornate patterns and rich colors are also common in traditional rugs. Here are a few styles that a traditional rug can complement easily:

• Traditional / Classic: Dark wood furniture, tufted upholstery, antique or vintage pieces.
• Transitional: A mix of traditional and contemporary pieces.
• French Country: Soft, elegant furniture with distressed wood and curves.
• Victorian: Ornate, dark wood, and intricate details.
• Eclectic: When paired thoughtfully, traditional rugs can work with a mix of furniture styles.

Modern Rugs

Geometric patterns, abstract designs, or solid colors work well in contemporary spaces. Rugs that come in simple neutral tones can also be considered modern, as well. Modern rugs complement these furniture styles well:

• Modern: Clean lines, sleek furniture, and neutral or bold accents.
• Mid-Century Modern: Wood and tapered legs with vibrant or neutral modern rugs.
• Scandinavian: Minimalist furniture with light wood and functional designs.
• Industrial: Paired with raw materials like metal, concrete, and wood.
• Art Deco: If the rug has bold geometric patterns, it can work well with glamorous, high-contrast furniture.

Bohemian Rugs

Vibrant, layered, and textured, these add personality and charm. Global-inspired or vintage-style patterns can also be considered boho in the rug world. Boho rugs are ideal in rooms decorated in these furniture styles:

• Bohemian: Layered, relaxed furniture with natural textures.
• Eclectic: Mix-and-match furniture with unique, personal touches.
• Scandinavian-Boho: Light wood furniture with organic textures and a cozy feel.
• Mid-Century Modern: Works well when mixing vintage pieces and colorful patterns.
• Rustic / Modern Farmhouse: If the boho rug has earth tones or vintage distressing, it can blend with rustic wood elements.

Minimalist Rugs

Neutral colors and subtle patterns create a serene, understated look. These styles and solid-colored rugs are generally considered minimalist and work well with certain furniture styles, including:

• Minimalist: Clean, simple furniture with a focus on functionality.
• Scandinavian: Light woods, airy spaces, and natural textures.
• Modern / Contemporary: Works well with sleek, structured furniture.
• Japandi: A blend of Scandinavian and Japanese design with soft neutral tones.
• Industrial: Can balance out raw elements with a subtle, soft touch.

5: Think About Maintenance

Before you commit, consider how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Do you want to spend hours of your life pulling out loose threads from your rug and vacuuming them? Do you need something pet-friendly or spill-friendly if you have littles? Different types of rugs require different levels of maintenance.

• High-pile rugs (like shag) are cozy but require frequent vacuuming.
• Low-pile or flatweave rugs are easier to clean and work well in busy areas.
• If you have allergies, opt for a rug that doesn’t trap dust and dander easily.
• Many rugs are made to be machine washable now, so that might be something to consider, too!

6: Don’t Forget the Rug Pad

A rug pad prevents slipping, extends the life of your rug, and adds extra cushioning. Choose one that fits the type of flooring you have and the thickness of your rug.

7: Set a Budget but Invest Wisely

While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest rug, a higher-quality rug can last for decades. Perhaps you are in a stage of life where you can think of it as an investment piece rather than just another home accessory. Splurge a little, especially if it's a rug you love!

Alternatively, if you are in a messy season of life (read: a season with kids or pets), you may want to save your sanity and opt for a less fancy, low-price rug option that won't make you feel stressed every time there is a spill or accident, or your cat uses it as a scratching pad.

8: Test Before You Buy

Bring home samples or use online visualization tools to see how a rug will look in your space if possible. Pay attention to how the color appears in different lighting. Let your cat walk across it to see if they are tempted to rip it to shreds!

Choosing a rug doesn’t have to be overwhelming, although if it has felt that way for you, you certainly aren't alone. I hope these suggestions will help you in your rug-buying journey.

By focusing on size, material, style, and maintenance, you can find the perfect area rug that enhances your home without regret. Take your time, trust your instincts, and invest in a piece that will bring comfort and beauty to your space for many years to come. ✨