Buying a rug can seem deceptively simple. You pick a style you like, measure your space, order the right size, and roll it out. But anyone who’s come home with a rug that looks so awkward in the space even though the measurements aligned, is too thin to support all the movement in your home, or is too bulky to get under any of your furniture knows there’s a lot more to consider. A rug isn’t just a layer of protection for your floor. It can add warmth to a room, dictate the color palette and overall mood of your space, protect your joints from hard flooring, absorb sound, and so much more. As The Dude in The Big Lebowski famously said, a rug can really tie everything together.
This piece of fabric has a lot of responsibility; therefore, it can be one of the most difficult decor decisions to make.
“The rug you choose isn’t just about filling space — it’s about creating a feeling and setting a tone for the room,” says Amanda Mantville, president of Armadillo, known as one of the more sustainable and stylish rug brands. “A rug is the foundation of a room. Investing in one that’s both beautiful and durable changes the way a space feels immediately.”
Whether you’re a maximalist who loves Persian rugs or a minimalist in search of the perfect shade of beige, there are a few key things to consider, and mistakes to avoid, when outfitting your floor.
How to buy an area rug
Mistake 1: Buying the wrong size
The first decision to make is size. This isn’t just about taking measurements; it’s about conceptualizing how much floor you want to cover. A rug that’s too small will make even the most thoughtfully furnished space feel disjointed, while one that’s too large can overwhelm a room. The rule of thumb? In living rooms, Mantville suggests the standard size is around 9-by-12 feet (like this gorgeous Malawi). “It’s ideally proportioned for living rooms and bedroom spaces. The rug should extend generously enough that the front legs of your furniture rest comfortably on it — this creates visual cohesion and grounds the room. This size works particularly well in spaces around 12-by-15 feet or larger, offering substantial presence without overwhelming the architecture.”
Filling an awkwardly sized or shaped space? There are varying guides to finding the right size, and Armadillo’s is incredibly easy to follow.
Mistake 2: Choosing the wrong material
Material is just as important. High-traffic areas (entryways, kitchens, living rooms) call for durable or washable rugs, while bedrooms can handle softer, plush options. Here’s a brief cheat sheet on fabrics:
- Wool rugs: Soft, durable, and naturally stain-resistant, wool is ideal for long-term use. It feels luxurious underfoot and develops a rich patina over time. The downside is that it typically requires occasional professional cleaning to maintain its beauty. “Hand-knotted wool rugs are generational investments — they don’t merely endure, they improve,” says Mantville.
- Cotton rugs: Lightweight, affordable, and often machine-washable, they’re soft but less durable than wool, making them great for casual spaces. This product is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and playrooms where cleaning is a priority.
- Natural plant fiber rugs: Eco-friendly and textural, they’re durable but rough underfoot and prone to staining. This makes them perfect for entryways, hallways, or layered over softer rugs in living rooms.
- Synthetic rugs: Made from polypropylene, polyester, or nylon, these are affordable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean — a fit for busy households with kids or pets. They’re durable for high-traffic areas but can feel less soft than natural fibers. They work in kitchens, hallways, living rooms, and outdoor spaces.
Alternatively, you can opt for a blended rug that balances cost, durability, and softness.
Mistake 3: Ignoring your lifestyle
Finally, think about your lifestyle and be honest about how you intend to maintain your rug. High-pile rugs feel luxuriously soft but are harder to vacuum, while low-pile or flatweave rugs are practical for high-traffic areas. And don’t forget about color and pattern: A bold print can be the focal point of a room, while a solid neutral lays the foundation for everything else. Knowing whether you want an affordable seasonal refresh, a statement-making design, or an heirloom-quality piece will instantly narrow your options.
Here’s a tip we hadn’t heard before: “Rotate it annually to promote even wear and light exposure,” suggests Mantville.
Mistake 4: Buying the cheap rug pad
Just don’t do it, no matter how good the reviews sound. “Invest in a quality rug pad,” says Mantville. “It protects your floors while extending the life of your rug.”
No matter where you land, choosing the right rug sets up your room’s foundation so you can decorate your home to your heart’s delight. We found some affordable options, but rugs might be the one place you should really consider investing in, since they literally get walked all over every day.
The Best Rug Brands for Every Style and Space
Best Affordable Natural Rug: Quince
Quince
Quince’s home section is a treasure of basic, functional finds with style. If you’re after natural fibers at a great value, Quince offers solid jute and wool rugs that feel far more expensive than they are.
Best Luxury Rug: Armadillo
Armadillo
If you’re ready to splurge on a rug you’ll own for decades, Armadillo is the name to know. This Australian brand is beloved for its handcrafted pieces made with natural fibers and timeless, understated designs. “Each rug is made with the intention of lasting generations. The beauty of wool is that it improves with age — it softens, develops patina, and adds character over time,” says Mantville. She emphasizes that longevity and subtle design are what set Armadillo apart: “We design rugs that feel effortlessly luxurious and work in any home because they aren’t about trends — they’re about craftsmanship and comfort.”
Best Solid Rug: RugsUSA
RugsUSA
Buying a large rug means you need to weigh out price, aesthetics, and durability. RugsUSA checks all three boxes while offering one of the widest selections of solid styles at budget-friendly prices. Their frequent sales make it possible to snag an oversized area rug without breaking the bank, and the brand offers both timeless and on-trend designs. The catch? Returns can be pricey, so double-check your measurements before ordering. This Arrel rug is so good, it went viral on TikTok
Best Patterned Rug: Revival
Revival
Revival has carved out a niche with one-of-a-kind rugs sourced from Turkey, Morocco, and India, as well as its own line of vintage-inspired designs, solid wool area rugs, and playful numbers that somehow make a sloth look polished. Their printed rugs capture the look of a high-end Persian or Turkish motif at a fraction of the cost, making them nice for renters or anyone who wants that layered, curated look without the investment.
Best Washable Rug: Ruggable
Ruggable
Ruggable pioneered the washable rug category. Their two-piece system makes it easy to strip off the top layer and toss it into your washing machine. From neutral basics to bold collaborations with designers and artists, they’ve mastered the balance of style and convenience. If you live with pets, kids, or red wine, a Ruggable rug will save you more times than you can count. And just last month, the brand launched a new all-in-one washable rug that is even more durable.
Lorena Canals is another option that leans chic. The brand offers washable rugs that skew bohemian and playful, often with tassels, braiding, or textured details.
Best Unique Rugs: Etsy
Etsy
For artisan-made rugs or unique vintage finds, Etsy remains a treasure trove of printed and patterned rugs that feel truly personal. From chic kilim styles to plush Beni Ourain rugs custom made in Morrocco (like the one pictured here), you can find the perfect design, fit and budget at Etsy. The only con is that you may be scrolling endlessly until you find *the one*.
Best Rug on Amazon: Safavieh
Amazon
Amazon is a tricky place to shop for rugs, but Safavieh is a brand you can trust there. They offer everything from durable outdoor rugs to plush shags and Moroccan-style patterns, all with solid reviews and competitive prices. Shipping is fast, selection is broad, and if you want instant gratification, this is your best bet. Plus you can’t beat the super fast shipping policy, with some styles arriving in as little as two days.
Best Custom Rug: Ernesta
Ernesta
If you’ve ever struggled to find a rug that fits your oddly-sized room, Ernesta has you covered. Founded by Peloton co-founder John Foley, Ernesta specializes in made-to-order rugs. You pick the size, material, and finish. It’s the perfect middle ground between mass-produced and fully bespoke, giving you a tailored look at a slightly more accessible price.
Best Trend-Forward Rug: Nordic Knots
Nordic Knots
With a Scandinavian design sensibility, Nordic Knots delivers high-quality rugs in muted palettes that bring an elevated minimalism to any room. It’s the brand that caters to famous interior designers and artists alike, with designs that are both artful and contemporary. Just look at this gorgeous tiger-print rug, originally designed for an art gallery, that somehow manages to make animal print not look tacky.
Best Outdoor Rug: Wayfair
Wayfair is a go-to for affordable outdoor rugs that can withstand weather and heavy foot traffic. Whether you want a bold stripe for a deck, a neutral weave for a patio, or something that mimics the look of an indoor rug, their options are endless — and usually ship fast. The prices also make it easy to refresh your outdoor space each season without guilt.
