The Best Area Rugs For Your Living Room

The Best Area Rugs For Your Living Room

Choosing the right area rug for your living room can be a daunting task. It needs to be visually appealing, durable, and complement your furniture. I recently went through this process myself and learned a lot about what makes a great area rug. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and provide a step-by-step guide on how to choose the best area rug for your living room.

Current Trends in Area Rugs

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a look at some current trends in area rugs. One of the biggest trends right now is layering rugs. This involves placing a smaller rug on top of a larger one to create a visually interesting and cozy look. Another trend is using bold and colorful patterns to make a statement in your living room. Lastly, natural materials like jute and sisal are becoming more popular as people look for eco-friendly options.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Best Area Rug

1. Measure your living room: Measure the size of your living room to determine what size rug you need. You don’t want a rug that’s too small or too large for your space.

2. Consider your furniture: Think about how your furniture will fit on the rug. The front legs of your sofa and chairs should be on the rug, while the back legs can be off. This will create a cohesive look.

3. Choose a material: There are many materials to choose from, including wool, cotton, jute, and synthetic fibers. Consider the durability and maintenance of each material before making a decision.

4. Pick a pattern: Decide if you want a patterned or solid rug. If you have a lot of patterned furniture, a solid rug can balance out the room. If your furniture is mostly solid, a patterned rug can add interest.

5. Select a color: Choose a color that complements your furniture and overall color scheme. If you have a neutral color scheme, a bold rug can add a pop of color.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Area Rugs

1. Layer a smaller rug on top of a larger one for a cozy look.

2. Choose a rug with a bold pattern to make a statement in your living room.

3. Use a rug to define a specific area in your living room, like a seating area or dining area.

4. Consider a natural material, like jute or sisal, for an eco-friendly option.

5. Choose a rug with a low pile if you have pets, as it’s easier to clean.

6. Use a rug to add texture to your living room, like a shag or wool rug.

7. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and colors for a bold and eclectic look.

8. Use a rug with a subtle pattern to balance out a room with a lot of patterned furniture.

9. Invest in a high-quality rug pad to prevent slipping and extend the life of your rug.

10. Clean your rug regularly to maintain its appearance and prevent dirt and allergens from building up.

Pros and Cons of Area Rugs

Pros:

• Adds warmth and coziness to a room
• Defines specific areas in a larger space
• Can be easily changed out for a new look
• Comes in a variety of materials, patterns, and colors

Cons:

• Can be expensive, especially for high-quality rugs
• Needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain appearance
• Can be a tripping hazard if not secured properly
• May not be suitable for households with pets, as they can scratch or damage the rug

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After much research and consideration, I ended up choosing a wool rug with a subtle pattern for my living room. It’s durable and easy to clean, and the pattern adds just the right amount of interest without overwhelming the space. Overall, I’m very happy with my choice and would recommend considering a wool rug for anyone in the market for a new area rug.

Question & Answer and FAQ

Q: How often should I clean my area rug?

A: It’s recommended to clean your area rug every 6-12 months, depending on foot traffic and general use. You can vacuum your rug regularly to prevent dirt and allergens from building up, but a deep clean with a professional cleaning service is recommended for best results.

Q: Can I put an area rug on top of carpet?

A: Yes, you can put an area rug on top of carpet. Just make sure the rug is large enough to cover the carpeted area and doesn’t create a tripping hazard.

Q: How do I choose the right size rug for my living room?

A: Measure your living room and choose a rug that’s proportional to the size of your space. Generally, your rug should be large enough to fit all of your furniture on top of it, with a few inches of space on each side.