The Ultimate Rug Guide

If your home features cool finishes and hard surfaces, a textured rug can warm the space and provide contrast to the smooth surfaces. Texture also adds a cosy, layered feel to any room and absorbs noise, which is perfect for busy households. Look for wool rugs, tufted designs, or chunky woven styles for added depth and softness.

For homes with little ones, textured rugs like shag or tufted options double as comfortable play surfaces. Kids’ rugs designed with extra softness and durability are perfect for children’s rooms, offering both style and practicality.

While there are no firm rules for rug sizes, larger rugs generally look better. A good guideline is to select a rug that is slightly larger than the largest piece of furniture it sits near or against. For instance, if the rug is in the living room, it should ideally extend beyond the front feet of the sofa. In dining rooms, a rug should be large enough for chairs to sit on it comfortably when pulled out.

Extra large rugs are perfect for spacious living areas, creating a sense of luxury and tying large rooms together. They’re also ideal for open-plan spaces where the rug helps define different zones, such as a living area or dining space.

Rugs can help frame or zone spaces within a single area, especially in open-plan homes. Here are some placement tips to keep in mind:

• In the living room, anchor the rug under the front feet of the sofa to prevent it from appearing as though it’s “floating.”
• In hallways, use hallway runners to add style and warmth while protecting the floor. They’re practical in high-traffic areas and help elongate narrow spaces.
• In the bedroom, a rug placed under the bed with enough overhang creates a soft, welcoming feel when you step out in the morning.

Read our Rug Guide for more placement details.

Selecting the perfect rug colour can feel daunting with so many options available. Start by looking around the room to identify existing colours, such as tones in cushions, artwork, or furniture, and choose a rug that complements them.

• In neutral or monochrome spaces, a colourful rug can act as a focal point.
• For bold interiors, opt for a neutral rug, such as beige or grey, to balance the palette.

Natural rugs made from jute, sisal, or wool are fantastic for earthy, minimalist spaces. They add texture while blending seamlessly with a wide variety of design styles.

While rectangular rugs are the most common, alternative shapes can create visual interest and enhance specific spaces:

• Round Rugs: These are perfect for softening sharp corners in a room or adding interest to small spaces. For a timeless look, consider round Moroccan rugs, which bring a sense of heritage and elegance to interiors.
• Runner Rugs: Hallway runners are ideal for long, narrow spaces, adding warmth and style while protecting your flooring.
• Oval Rugs: A less conventional shape, oval rugs are perfect for dining areas, nurseries, or cozy reading nooks.
• Round Rugs for Kids: A round rug in a child’s room or play area adds a playful and soft element while keeping the space practical and stylish.

Different spaces in your home require rugs with specific qualities. Consider these options for both style and functionality:

• Outdoor Rugs: Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, outdoor rugs are perfect for patios, decks, and alfresco spaces. They add comfort and style to your outdoor entertaining areas while withstanding the elements.
• Kids Rugs: Kids’ rugs should be durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Fun designs and playful shapes, such as round or themed rugs, make them a perfect addition to nurseries, playrooms, or bedrooms.
• Pet-Friendly Rugs: Look for rugs that are easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear. Low-pile options or washable rugs are practical choices for homes with pets.
• Washable Rugs: For busy households, washable rugs are a lifesaver. They’re easy to maintain and perfect for spaces prone to spills, such as kids’ rooms, dining areas, and entryways.

While rectangular rugs are the most common, alternative shapes can create visual interest and enhance specific spaces:

• Round Rugs: These are perfect for softening sharp corners in a room or adding interest to small spaces. For a timeless look, consider round Moroccan rugs, which bring a sense of heritage and elegance to interiors.
• Runner Rugs: Hallway runners are ideal for long, narrow spaces, adding warmth and style while protecting your flooring.
• Oval Rugs: A less conventional shape, oval rugs are perfect for dining areas, nurseries, or cozy reading nooks.
• Round Rugs for Kids: A round rug in a child’s room or play area adds a playful and soft element while keeping the space practical and stylish.

Different spaces in your home require rugs with specific qualities. Consider these options for both style and functionality:

• Outdoor Rugs: Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, outdoor rugs are perfect for patios, decks, and alfresco spaces. They add comfort and style to your outdoor entertaining areas while withstanding the elements.
• Kids Rugs: Kids’ rugs should be durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Fun designs and playful shapes, such as round or themed rugs, make them a perfect addition to nurseries, playrooms, or bedrooms.
• Pet-Friendly Rugs: Look for rugs that are easy to clean and resistant to wear and tear. Low-pile options or washable rugs are practical choices for homes with pets.
• Washable Rugs: For busy households, washable rugs are a lifesaver. They’re easy to maintain and perfect for spaces prone to spills, such as kids’ rooms, dining areas, and entryways.

How to clean wool carpet rugs?

Rugs need care just like carpet. Vacuum frequently and clean up any spills and marks promptly. You can read our Rug Care Guide for more information.

What is a pet-friendly rug?

A pet-friendly rug is a must in a home with dogs and cats! Look for attributes such as washable features, anti-stain qualities and non-loop pile fibres (for pet paws to get caught in).

Where is there a rug store near me?

The Flooring Xtra rug store means you can choose a rug online and have it sent directly to you! With so many options to select from and free delivery, it’s a great way to shop.