We all love a good excuse to redecorate, and you can make a strong argument that every new season requires a new rug. Think about it: they get dirty in the summer, wet in the winter, and can “fall” out of style during the autumn and spring months.
So, what should be your primary goal when choosing a rug? Finding one that might last.
You want something practical. You want something pretty. You want a rug that matches, won’t show dirt, and that’s easy to clean. You want something that fits in the room (and with all your furniture). That’s a lot to consider — and what if you’re forgetting something? A good rug isn’t always cheap, so making sure you’ve covered your bases from the beginning is the best way to shop.
At Grand Home Furnishings, we understand this process better than most, so we’ve compiled an easy, ten-tip guide to help you pick the perfect rug for your space:
10 Grand Tips for Selecting a New Rug
1. Size & Layout
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Whole Room: If you want a rug that covers almost the entire room, leave 12-18 inches of bare floor between the rug’s edges and the walls.
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Conversation Area: Typically, the front legs of your furniture will stand atop the rug and the back legs are off. Because of this unspoken rule, a 5’ x 8’ or 6’ x 9’ rug often works for smaller rooms, while an 8’ x 10’ or 9’ x 12’ works for larger ones.
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Under the Coffee Table: If you choose to go with a smaller rug, pick one that is large enough to fit under the coffee table with a bit of room on each side to spare. This will usually size out as either a 4’ x 6’ or 5’ X 7’ rug.
2. Shape
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The size of your room is important, but so is all the stuff you have in it. When picking your rug, choose a shape that complements your furniture and room’s shape. Rectangular rugs are most common, but you might consider round, oval, or square styles, too, depending on your furniture configuration and room layout.
3. Material
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Natural Fibers(like wool): They’re durable, often more expensive, and can be prone to staining, but they are generally considered high-quality options.
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Synthetic Fibers(like nylon or polypropylene): These are more affordable, often stain-resistant, and can hold up well in high-traffic areas. Synthetic fiber rubs are becoming a very popular choice at Grand Home Furnishings.
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Natural Grasses(like jute or sisal): You want something organic? Something natural? Natural grass rugs are what you’re looking for, but can be a little rough on the feet.
4. Color & Pattern
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Neutral Rugs: These work well if you have colorful furniture or if you plan to change your decor frequently. They are also timeless, classy, and could stay in your home for years to come.
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Bold & Patterned Rugs: These can be added as a focal point, adding character to a simple space. That said, you must be mindful of patterns clashing with other textiles in the room. You’ll likely have less flexibility in the future, but if you’re okay with that, they can be absolute show-stoppers.
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Darker Shades: They hide dirt and stains better, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Dark hallway runners are great additions to consider!
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Lighter Shades: These often make a room feel larger and more open, but they can also quickly show stains — especially if your home is filled with children and pets.
5. Texture
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Rugs come in various textures, ranging from flatweave to plush and shaggy. Think about the underfoot feel you desire and the look you're going for. Again, organic materials will likely be a little rougher, while synthetic fibers could feel a little more cloud-like.
6. Maintenance
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Do you have children? Dogs? A messy spouse? What is your day job? Do you allow shoes on in the house? How often to you clean? These are all questions you need to consider, because cleaning rugs can be a simple or tiresome chore depending on your circumstances and decisions. If you’re putting a new rug in a high-traffic area, you might want a rug that's stain-resistant and easy to clean.
7. Safety
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Remember — rugs slip, and this can be a dangerous hazard! Always use a rug pad underneath your rug. This helps prevent rug slippage while also prolonging the rug’s life and adding a layer of cushioning.
8. Budget
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We said it in the beginning of this post, and we’ll say it again: a good rug isn’t always cheap. That said, you don’t always have to break the bank when conducting your search. Rugs come in a range of prices depending on the size, material, and features. Determine your budget before you start shopping and try to stick to it.
9. Test It Out
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If possible, take a sample home or try the rug in your space before finalizing your purchase. Colors and patterns can look quite different under your home's lighting compared to a store.
10. Stay Open-minded
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Sometimes, the perfect rug is one you wouldn't initially consider. Stay open to various colors, patterns, and textures until you find the one that feels right. Speak with Grand Home Furnishings team of experts if you have questions — they are experienced in home design and would be happy to help you find the missing piece in your living space!
Remember, a rug isn't just a design element; it's a piece of your home that you'll live with every day. Make sure it's something you love and that it complements the style and function of your living room!
For more information on what Grand Home Furnishings offers compared to other furniture and mattress shops, visit us in-store at one of our 18 locations in Virginia (Bristol, Charlottesville, Christiansburg, Harrisonburg, Lynchburg, Roanoke - Outlet, Tanglewood & Valley View, Waynesboro, Wise, Winchester, the new GHF Furniture Outlet in Staunton), West Virginia (Beckley, Lewisburg, Martinsburg, Princeton), and Tennessee (Johnson City, Kingsport) or shop with us online at https://www.grandhf.com/.
