How to Select an Area Rug?
Rugs are among the few home furnishings that may subtly yet effectively complete a room's design. A rug can add an unmatched appeal and intrigue, serving as the space's inspiration or a last touch. In any case, acquiring the perfect rug comes with a few confinements and challenges.
There are numerous components to consider, including the fabric, size, fashion, and make; the process isn't made any less demanding by the boundless cluster of possibilities. With the information and assurance given by our thorough buying guide, you can select the perfect rug for your necessities.
What to Think About Before Obtaining a Rug?
It all comes down to deciding which area the rug will be set in and its function.
Is it a utilitarian component that keeps individuals from slipping in busy areas or an articulation piece that binds together the aesthetic?
Probably not the best idea to purchase a delicate vintage discovery if you have small children or pets. Think about the rug's form and size, as well as its style and materials, pile, maintenance, and rug pad.
1. Dimensions and Form
Selecting a rug that fits the room's dimensions is crucial. Generally speaking, choose a rug that may contain the room's main features or act as a separator between built-ins.
- Living room: Make sure the front legs of your couch and the front legs of the armchairs next to it are at least on the rug if your sofa faces a wall. In a spacious living room with a hovering seating area, all furniture should be positioned on the rug, leaving space between the pieces and the front and back legs.
- Dining room: Refer to the size of the table. Regardless of shape, the rug must be at least 24 inches wide on all sides to accommodate even a chair that is pushed back.
- Bedroom: Choose a huge rug with an additional width on either side to accommodate beneath the bed and night tables in a large room. If the room is smaller, the rug should come up to about β of the bed; if not, place little area rugs on both sides.
- Kitchen and entryway: If you must use carpeting in the kitchen or entryway, keep it narrow or choose a smaller piece (2' by 3' or 4' x 6').
- Outside: Here, larger is preferable, and the rug you choose should be 12 to 24 inches smaller than the room's perimeter.
How is a room measured for a rug?
To determine the right size rug for a room, take the overall measurements and subtract one to two feet from those measurements. As an alternative, measure the circumference of the rug and use that as your starting point after using painter's tape to indicate its proportions in the best spot.
2. Material and Weave
There are many different materials used to make area rugs, and each has pros and cons of its own:
- Wool: A traditional option renowned for its sturdiness, natural stain resistance, and opulent feel. Wool rugs, however, can be more costly and need particular care.
- Nylon: A well-liked synthetic textile famous for being inexpensive, resistant to stains, and easy to clean. Nylon carpets can, however, exhibit deterioration with time and might not be as soft as those made of natural fibers.
- Polyester: This less expensive material has vivid colors and good stain resistance. Polyester carpets may not be as soft as nylon rugs and may flatten with time.
- Cotton: Used frequently in flatweave carpets, it offers a cozy and natural feel. Although cotton rugs are typically easy to clean, high-usage areas may cause them to lose their durability.
- Viscose: Prized for their smooth appearance and texture, viscose carpets are opulent but need careful maintenance.
Your lifestyle and the room where the rug will be placed play a big role in helping you choose the right material for your home. You can never be restricted to a single style, so remember that your preferred aesthetic may also play a role. Finding what makes you distinct may always be achieved by mixing and matching.
3. Pile
A rug's pile is a gauge for the thickness or density of the material. Generally speaking, rug piles fall into two types:
- Low-pile rugs: These are ideal for high-traffic areas like the kitchen because of their shorter fibers and loops (imagine flatweaves).
High-pile rugs: Shag or Moroccan rugs are examples of high-pile rugs, which are more luxurious and perfect for the living room or bedroom because of their taller, looser strands.
A rug's pile height is primarily determined by its appearance and use. Rugs offer sound absorption regardless of pile height, but the more substantial the rug, the more efficient the insulation. Over time, an additional pile helps the carpet last longer and perform better.
4. Upkeep and Disinfection
Before purchasing, consider cleaning and upkeep for the rug, as it will inevitably become dirty at some point. Ironically, older or historical furniture typically lasts longer than more affordable, contemporary models that might not have the same structural strength.
- Synthetics: Vacuum, steam, or spot cleaning. Even while most of them (like acrylics) are stain-resistant, they may give the impression of dirtier surfaces since they soak up oil and grime.
- Wool: Notes that natural oils (lanolin) prevent spills from seeping into the fibers. If your rug is hand-knotted, use water and dish soap on your toothbrush to remove any remaining stain after blotting the excess. Avoid the impulse to scrub since it may harm the fibers.
- Cotton and silk: Get a pro's help to avoid escalating stains by catching them deeper in the fibers.
5. Buying a Rug Pad
Once your ideal rug has been acquired, the most important thing to do is ensure it will endure over time. Thus, a rug pad must be purchased. They cushion heavy furniture to keep it from scratching the floor, prevent damage, and keep you from sliding on a bunched crease.
Choose a rug pad with a strong grip for high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathroom. A padded rug pad in the living room or bedroom will add a layer of luxurious luxury.
Bottom Line
This comprehensive buying guide lets you embark on your area rug search! Remember, the perfect rug complements your existing decor, reflects your style, and caters to your functional needs. Browse the vast selection of area rugs at Residence Supply to find the one that speaks to your space and complements your vision.