How to choose a rug and position it

As the air chills and days shorten, our lives naturally shift indoors. This season, we’re preparing our homes for winter from the ground up, layering in warmth with cosy textures and classic floor coverings. A quality rug does more than protect your flooring; it acts as a foundation piece that dictates how a room feels and functions – from softening acoustics to making open-plan spaces feel intimate and resolved. Whether you’re looking to refresh your dining space or add a soft landing to your bedside, here’s our guide for how to choose a rug this winter. Check out these tips on finding the perfect rug.

How to choose a rug and what’s the best rug placement

• Instead of a floor covering, think of a rug as a device to define zones in an area or frame furniture.
• If in doubt, size up – or use two of the same rugs side by side.
• Wool and loop pile rugs can soften a space.
• Heritage inspired rugs are forgiving and great for houses with kids and dogs.
• Colourful rugs are good for children’s bedrooms.
• Washable polyester rugs are best in the busiest areas of the home, such as the kitchen and laundry.
• Carpet runners can reduce noise.

How to lay a rug

Beyond being practical and comfy underfoot, a new rug is sometimes the simplest way to reset and section off a space – without breaking out the power tools or adding visual clutter. For the best rug placement, think of it as a framing device rather than just a floor covering; anchoring furniture, defining zones and adding weight where the room might otherwise feel adrift. In studios and open-plan layouts, rugs are a great way to distinguish between working, dining and lounging areas.

Tip: In living and dining spaces, aim to have at least the front legs of sofas and chairs sitting on the rug for a more cohesive look.

What size rug should you buy?

While we often associate rugs with large living areas and dining rooms, they can also work really well in smaller spaces – especially if you have hardwood floors. Size is where most people hesitate but where confidence pays off. A rug that’s too small can make even the most beautiful interiors feel disconnected. Generosity reads as intentional, while undersized reads as accidental – so when in doubt, size up! In the bedroom, look for a rug that moors the bed with space to spare, or use two rugs to ensure ample coverage on both sides of the bed.

Tip: If you’re unsure which size rug to get, map out dimensions with painter’s tape on the floor to visualise how it will sit in the room.

How to choose a rug colour or pattern

If your space leans toward Mid-century Modern with clean lines and timber tones, a subtle geometric rug in something tactile – like wool or loop pile – can help soften the edges. For a timeless look, consider heritage-inspired rug designs with intricate, weathered motifs – these traditional patterns are more forgiving of everyday marks, making them a great choice for busier households. In children’s rooms, a colourful rug can be the perfect way to introduce more fun, without committing to a paint colour they’ll quickly grow out of – the right design can also add a new dimension to their playtime adventures!

Tip: Pull a colour from your artwork or upholstery to help the rug feel more intentionally layered into the room.

What style of rug should you get?

Rugs warm up hard floors both literally and visually, softening acoustics and making daily rituals – from morning coffee to late-night trips down the hall – feel a little more luxurious. Carpet runners are particularly useful for protecting timber floorboards and reducing noise in areas with high foot traffic (like an entryway or corridor). Roll one out to instantly change the look, sound and feel of a busy space. In the hardest-working areas of the home – think kitchen, butler’s pantry or laundry – opt for hardwearing, washable rugs made from polyester. These lightweight pieces are easy to roll up and stow away when needed and, if spills occur, can be given a gentle scrub with mild detergent solution, rinsed with a hose and hung out to dry. Some smaller utility mats (150cm x 60cm) can even be popped in the washing machine!

Tip: To keep corners from curling and ensure your rug stays put on hard polished flooring, use non-slip underlay or rug-gripper tape and corner stickers.

Frequently asked questions and answers

How to stop rugs from slipping on carpet?

Use non-slip underlay or rug-gripper tape and corner stickers.

How to remove a stain from a rug?

Scrub gently with a mild detergent solution, rinse and hang it out to dry. For smaller rugs look for those that are machine washable.

How to place a living room rug or dining room rug?

Use rugs to define different zones in the house, like the couch area or dining table. Have the front legs of sofas or chairs sitting on the rug.

How to choose a bedroom rug?

Go large to ensure ample coverage on both sides of the bed.

Want to keep your new floor coverings looking their best?

Check out our eight easy ways to clean your carpet or rug.

Photo credit: Alex Reinders. 

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