How to choose a rug for every room in your home

The life-changing magic of a rug 

Transform bare summer floors in an instant with this year’s exciting new-season rugs, which come in a beautiful range of textures, materials and colours to suit every space and use. From living areas to the nursery, these on-trend pieces – in nostalgic patterns with a mood-boosting feel – can form the foundation of a whole new look for your home. They also help insulate against the chill and noise and, best of all, can be rolled out or up and away whenever you fancy.

How to choose a rug for your living room 

For rooms that function as places to relax and unwind, a soothing palette rules. But you can still make a home fashion statement with a contemporary rug in neutral colours. Paler hues are lovely in no-shoe zones, where a wool weave will feel reassuring underfoot. “Wool rugs with a mix of high and low tufting and abstract patterns instantly modernise a living space while also adding excellent insulation and warmth,” says Flooring Buyer Alice Philp-Taylor.

 

How to choose a rug for your dining room

Mealtimes can be messy, so consider this when you choose a rug to define your dining space. Easy-care, washable polypropylene looks and feels good, while patterns that pay homage to vintage designs are very forgiving of small stains. A low-fuss smooth pile will reduce the chance of furniture legs catching.

 

How to choose a rug for the bedroom

Styling a bedroom is all about cosy comfort, and rugs are a key ingredient for a soft and textural space. Capture a sumptuous sensation underfoot with a plush rug, with a deep pile and velvety texture.

Size makes all the difference in a bedroom scheme. A larger rug is visually appealing and serves to pull together the elements of the room. Ideally, opt for a large rug (or two of the same side by side) that sits under the entire bed and bedside tables too. Otherwise, position the rug under the lower two thirds of the bed, with enough either side so you can swing your feet out of bed and straight onto the rug – utter bliss on a cold winter morning!

 

How to choose a rug for the nursery 

Little ones are always playing on the floor, making rugs an essential element of their room decor. Fabulously tactile shag pile and faux fur are winners, or opt for a more easy-care rug that does double-duty as a game, such as this cute ‘Roadway’ design for hours of fun with toy cars – beep beep! “For kids’ rooms, opt for bright, playful rugs that spark creativity and encourage imaginative play,” says Alice.

How to clean a rug

1. Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions, and spot test an inconspicuous area first.

2. Most polypropylene and polyester rugs can be given a gentle scrub with mild detergent solution, then rinsed with a hose and hung out to dry.

3. Wool rugs require a soft sponging, then blot dry with towels and hang outside to air.

Rug styling tips

1. Use positional rugs to ground furniture in a large room.

2. Lay a long runner to lead up a hallway.

3. Create soft, textural layers in a bedroom.

 

Keep your rugs looking sharp

Follow these simple carpet and rug cleaning tips.

 

Photo Credit: Martina Gemmola, Alex Reinders.