Whether to anchor your room or place as the finishing touch, a rug can have a big impact on how the space flows and feels. With endless options of different sizes, colours, materials, and patterns available it’s easy to get lost in the details when you try to buy a rug online. And don’t even get started on the pressure of picking one that’s too small (hello, design disaster) or too large (and suddenly your room feels overrun by it). By following a few simple tips you can make the process much easier, as buying the perfect rug doesn’t have to be complicated. We’ve broken it down into easy-to-digest tips to help you buy the best rugs online for every room.
Measure Your Space
Before you get sucked into the world of rugs (it’s a rabbit hole, trust us), grab a tape measure. Whether you’re buying rugs online or in-store, measuring your space and furniture will help you avoid purchasing a rug that’s either too small or embarrassingly large Start by taking the general measurements of the room (length and width). Then, reduce those dimensions by about 30 to 60 cm (1 to 2 feet) to find the appropriate rug size for the space. It’s honestly that simple.
General Sizing Tips:
Living Room: Make sure the rug fits under the front legs of your furniture. This helps anchor the space and ties everything together.
Dining Room: Your rug should be large enough that chairs stay on it, even when pulled out. It’s all about comfort (and not dragging the chair across your floor).
Bedroom: For a cozy feel, pick a rug for the bedroom that fits under the entire bed with some space around the edges. If the room is smaller, you could go with a bedroom rug that covers just the area around the bed or smaller area rugs on either side.
Consider the Traffic (Durability Matters)
You know your space better than anyone, and one thing is for sure: life gets messy. If your space is high-traffic, where the kids hang out and where pet lounges 90% of the time, or guests constantly coming over, you’ll want a rug that’s durable and easy to maintain.
High-Traffic Areas: Look for durable living room rugs or hallway rugs that are easy to maintain and built to last—perfect for high-traffic areas. Look for tough materials like polypropylene or wool. These are easy to clean and will stand up to the wear and tear of everyday use.
Low-Traffic Areas: If the rug is going in a quieter space like a bedroom like a bedroom or formal dining room, choose an area rug that’s softer and more delicate. But if you're shopping for a rug for a kid’s room, you’ll want something to stand up to accidents, spills, and the inevitable toy or snack messes.
Material (It’s About Comfort, Durability, and Cleaning)
The material of a rug plays a huge role in its overall look, feel, and function. Each type of fiber has unique characteristics, making some better for high-traffic spaces, while some rugs are best for low-use rooms.
Common Rug Materials:
Synthetic Fiber: (Polyester/ Polypropylene). This synthetic material is known for its resilience and ease of maintenance. It’s a solid choice for high-traffic zones, homes with pets, or kids, as it’s stain-resistant and can be easily cleaned.
- Pros: Affordable, low-maintenance, resistant to stains and fading.
- Cons: Lacks the luxurious feel of natural fibers.
Natural Fibers: (Wool/Jute/Sisal). Jute and sisal are natural fibers that offer a textured, earthy look. They're great for adding warmth and organic appeal to a room.
- Pros: Natural and sustainable, textured look that works well in neutral or organic-themed spaces.
- Cons: Can be difficult to clean, less soft underfoot, and may stain easily.
Low vs. High Pile Rugs
Which one is right for your space? When picking a rug, one important detail is the pile — the thickness and density of the fibers. It affects both the look and the performance of the rug in your space.
Low-Pile Rugs: Short, sleek fibers that are easy to clean, won’t trap dirt as much, and let your furniture sit comfortably on top without getting caught. Think of these as the no-fuss, functional option.
High-Pile Rugs: They're a dream underfoot but do require a bit more TLC — they can trap dirt, dust, and debris. For a bit more comfort and texture, this is your go-to, but you'll need to vacuum more often.
Functionality (It’s More Than Just Looks)
Yes, your rug should look good, but it should also be functional. Some rooms require more than just a rug that ties everything together.
Non-slip backing: If your rug is going on a hard floor, make sure it has a non-slip backing to prevent any accidents.
Outdoor Rugs: Indoor/outdoor rugs have become increasingly popular. Soft enough to provide a great balance of comfort for indoor living spaces while also being tough enough to endure outdoor conditions when looking for a rug for your outdoor patio.
Reversible Rugs: Want extra longevity? Consider a reversible rug that you can flip to give it a “new” look and extend its life. The more functional the area rug is for your lifestyle, the less you’ll worry about it over time.
Room-by-Room Guide: What to Look for When Shopping for Rugs
Best rugs types for each room in your home.
Living Room: You’ve chosen your couch, your coffee table, and maybe even your artwork but even the most stylish living room feels incomplete without a rug. A medium to high pile rug can anchor the room, grounding your furniture while adding texture, color, and the feeling of home. Whether you choose a bold pattern or a soft, subtle hue, the right rug ties everything together and makes the room feel inviting.
Bedroom: A rug for the bedroom in a soft, calming hue is perfect for enhancing relaxation. A low to medium pile rug beneath your bed creates a cozy vibe and adds a touch of color, making the room feel like a peaceful retreat.
Dining Room: A rug under the dining table can transform your dining space. A flat-woven rug in a stylish design adds warmth and character while defining the area. It’s a practical way to bring color or texture to your dining room and make meals feel extra special.
Kitchen: Even in the busiest kitchen, a rug can be a practical addition. A washable, flat-weave rug 80cm(W)x 200cm(L) that’s stain-resistant and durable enough to handle spills and foot traffic in a fun design or a pop of color can bring some personality and brighten the space.
Outdoors: A rug can tie your outdoor space together and create a cozy, inviting vibe. A durable outdoor rug softens hard surfaces, making your patio or balcony feel like an extension of your home. It’s the perfect way to add style and comfort while enjoying the outdoors.
Entryway: A great entrance rug is like a warm handshake, inviting, stylish, and just the right touch to make anyone feel welcome. For most entryways, a runner rug in a flat-weave design is the perfect fit for these narrow spaces. They also won’t add bulk or make the space feel crowded. For this high-traffic space, consider materials like polypropylene, jute, or other synthetic fabrics that effectively catch dirt, moisture, and debris from shoes. With the right rug, your entryway will always feel warm, welcoming, and clean from the very first step inside.
Need help sizing it up?Check out our rug size guide for all the details.
When selecting a rug for your home, it’s important to think about the space you’re working with. Follow these simple steps—measure your space, consider traffic, and choose a colour and material that works for you. And you’ll find the perfect rug in no time best suited to each room’s needs. At Woodka Interiors, we offer a wide range of rugs for every room, style, and family. From a stylish living room rug, a resilient option for a busy hallway, or a rug that fits perfectly under the dining table, we have many options for different functions and spaces. Start browsing and shopping online for the perfect rug tailored to your needs by size, color, shape, style, pattern, pile, construction, and weave—all right here.