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Did you think of decorating underneath your feet just like you decorate everything around you? Yes, we’re talking about the rug that can change the entire look of your house. But are you aware of how to pick the right rug for you?
Measuring the size of your space, inspecting the materials, and choosing the right color for your desired environment, you can easily choose the rug you preciously need. But is that all?
No, there are many more things you should know of.
How to Pick the Right Rug for You
Choosing the right rug doesn’t have any mandatory rules. You can always pick anything you like. But considering several facts is a wise approach if you want the suitable material with the right size and color.
1. Size
The spaces of different places in your home vary. Thus, the size of the rug will differ depending on the place you want to set it in. Let’s start with your bedroom.
Bedroom Rug Size
The equation is the same for choosing a rug, whether you have a king, queen, or twin bed in your bedroom. The main target is to choose the rug as big as possible. It’ll ensure the rug remains underfoot wherever you walk in your room.
First, measure the bed and nightstands. It’ll give you some idea of what rug size you need. Whatever the size of your bed is, add 24 inches more around it and then assume the rug size. This measurement will get you the perfect rug for your bedroom.
Living Room Rug Size
You can follow two ways to measure the rug size of your living room. One, determine the room size, leaving 6-8 inches on each side. If you have some awkward pillars in the middle, you can always go for custom rug cuts.
Two, you can add 6-12 inches around pieces of furniture with ample space for the front legs and order a rug of this size. Ensure all your furniture fits well on the rug with enough space around the edges.
Rug Size for Other Spaces
The bigger the rug, the more comfy it makes the surface. But leave at least 3 to 6 inches of space from the wall object or any floor transition. It’ll look sophisticated.
Now, you’ve got to remember a few things for the dining space. Keep the sofa and tables either entirely on or completely off the rug. Ensure the chairs you move pretty often should slide smoothly. The nylon or polypropylene materials of rugs offer the smoothest surface; thus, moving furniture becomes easy on them.
But if you don’t need to move furniture frequently but rather want a surface that prevents it from sliding, wool or sisal rug materials are what you need.
2. Materials
We have already started to discuss the materials in the previous section, haven’t we? Yes, because it’s the most substantial matter to consult on.
Once you purchase a rug, you will see many options for rug materials. But which one should you choose? By knowing their characteristics, you’ll surely know the answer.
Wool
That’s the most traditional rug material. They are durable, wear-resistant, and best for warmth and comfort. You can get them at an affordable price as well. Its surface is hypoallergenic, so you’ll never see dust mites and mold grow. As wools are soft, moving furniture on them will not make any sound.
Best for:
- Hotel rooms, corridors, lounges, and lobbies
- High-traffic areas
- Dusty atmosphere.
Jute
Jutes are eco-friendly elements with warmth and cozy texture. It has a rustic look and prevents any sound while moving furniture. Since the Jutes are inexpensive, you’ll get a rug made of this budget-friendly material.
Best for:
- High-traffic area.
- Easy to clean.
- Living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas.
Silk
If you want your surface smooth, rugs with silk materials are exactly what you need. They are robust, durable, and luxurious simultaneously. Yet, they’ll cost you a lot of your penny.
The fine fiber of silk brings the aesthetic details of the design of this rug. But they require proper maintenance and should be kept away from the pet.
Best for:
- Aesthetic look.
- Executive and premium rooms.
- A broad range of colors and vibrancy.
Hemp
Hemp is one of the most eco-friendly options with a unique rough texture. It gradually softens with use and provides an earthy feel. You can get various color options in it with interior styles.
Best for:
- Durable.
- Mold and mildew-resistant.
- Lobbies, hallways, living rooms.
Cotton
Cotton is the most versatile option for a rug material. It’s soft, durable, and affordable as well. These types of rugs are available in various colors and patterns. If comfort is your highest priority, you should choose this rug material.
Best for:
- Low-traffic areas.
- Bedrooms and children's rooms.
- Lightweight, easy to maintain, and cost-effective.
Synthetic Fibres
Synthetic fibers evolve from nylon, polyester, and bamboo silk. They are more natural with affordable prices and easy cleaning hassles.
Best for:
- Soft touches
- Light and easy maintenance.
- Premium hotel rooms. Outdoor spaces, hallways.
3. Color(s)
The color of your rug should be picked based on the hue of your floor. First, you must determine the atmosphere you want to create. If you want a soft tone, powder pink or baby blue is the way to go. These colors look great in summer and spring.
You can also match the color of your rug with the color of the furniture. It’ll create a cohesive and unified look. If your room has several colors of furniture, then consider a rug with a bold hue for a pop feel.
Let us give you some examples of solid colors and the mood they create to give you some vivid ideas:
● Warm colors (Red, Orange, Yellow): Create a cozy and inviting look.
● Cool colors (Blue, Green, Purple): Bring a calm and relaxing feeling.
● Light colors: Make a small room feel larger and brighter.
● Dark colors: Create an intimated feeling but appear with a suffocated aura.
4. Pattern(s)
The pattern is similarly important with colors. It doesn’t need to be bright or bold. Just an elegant touch of style can make your home look gorgeous. Go for larger, more open designs and stripes to create an illusion of spaciousness. Let’s get some ideas about the patterns:
● Classic style: Florals, orientals, or damasks are classic styles that create a timeless look.
● Modern style: Geometric bold patterns, stripes, or abstract designs can create a contemporary feel.
● Bohemian style: Colorful, eclectic patterns like paisleys, Moroccan prints, or kilims can give you a feel of an ancient nomadic race.
5. Cleaning and Maintainance
Once you are all done with the size, materials, colors, and patterns, just get your attention to the maintenance of your chosen rug. Ensure it requires less hassle in cleaning and resists enough pressure for longer use.
Rugs with short piles, minimal texture, and synthetic materials are easier to spot clean. Also, they dry quickly after cleaning. Regarding design, rugs with simpler patterns take less effort in cleaning.
I think you got the solution how to pick the right rug. You may also need to know how to place a rug properly. Take a tour on it.
[Note: You can buy a rug pad to trap dirt and debris before it reaches your rug. It’ll make your cleaning easier and reduce any wear and tear].
Should A Rug Match the Wall Color?
No, until you want the rug to blend with your room’s atmosphere. But what would it look like if you blended the rug with the wall color? Whether you blend it or not, let’s see which approach can create the aesthetic look of your home interior.:
Complementary colors
To select a rug color that matches the wall, go for a similar color palette but in a different shade or tone. It’ll bring a harmonious and cohesive look to your room. If your walls are a light blue, you could choose a rug in a deeper navy blue or a light teal.
Contrasting colors
Most people want the rug color to contrast with the walls. it can add a bold statement and visual interest to the space. For instance, a bright orange rug would create a striking contrast against white walls.
Neutral rugs
If your walls are already a bold color or you want more flexibility with decorating, a beige, gray, or cream color rug can be a good choice. It’ll catch people's eye toward other elements.
Matching the rug to other elements
You can also consider coordinating the rug with other elements in the room, such as furniture, throw pillows, or artwork. The entire space together will create a sense of cohesion.
How to Clean a Rug: Maintenance Tips
Rugs add warmth, comfort, and style to our living spaces but also accumulate dust, dirt, and occasional spills. Regular maintenance can keep your rug looking fresh and extend its lifespan. Here are some practical tips for cleaning and caring for it:
Vacuum Regularly:
Frequency: Vacuum your rug at least once a week to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. High-traffic areas may require more frequent vacuuming.
Technique: Use a vacuum cleaner with adjustable settings to avoid damaging delicate fibers. Start from the center and work outward to prevent pulling on the edges.
Rotate Your Rug:
Why: Rotating your rug every few months helps distribute wear and prevents uneven fading.
How: Simply turn the rug 180 degrees or swap it with another rug in a different area.
Spot Cleaning:
Act Quickly: Address spills and stains promptly to prevent them from setting. Blot (don’t rub) the affected area with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Stain-Specific Tips:
■ Coffee/Tea: Blot with cold water and mild detergent.
■ Wine/Juice: Blot with a mixture of water and white vinegar.
■ Pet Accidents: Blot with an enzyme-based cleaner.
■ Chewing Gum: Freeze with ice and gently scrape off.
Deep Cleaning:
Frequency: Aim for deep cleaning every 12 to 18 months, depending on foot traffic.
Methods:
Shampooing: Use a rug shampooer or hire a professional cleaner.
Steam Cleaning: Effective for removing embedded dirt and allergens.
Dry Cleaning: Suitable for delicate rugs made of silk or wool.
Sun and Air Exposure:
Benefits: Sunlight kills bacteria and freshens the rug. Hang it outdoors occasionally.
Caution: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as it can fade colors.
Flip It Over:
Why: Flipping the rug exposes the underside to air and prevents dust buildup.
When: Do this during your regular vacuuming sessions.
Trim Loose Threads:
Carefully: If you notice loose threads or snags, trim them with scissors to prevent unraveling.
Use Rug Pads:
Purpose: Rug pads provide cushioning, prevent slipping, and protect your floor.
Choose Wisely: Opt for non-slip pads suitable for your flooring type.
Professional Cleaning:
When Needed: Consider professional cleaning services if your rug is heavily soiled or has stubborn stains.
Avoid DIY Steam Cleaners: They can damage certain rug materials.
Storage Tips:
Clean First: Before storing your rug, ensure it’s clean and dry.
Roll, Don’t Fold: Roll the rug with the pile facing inward to prevent creases.
Avoid Plastic Bags: Use breathable fabric or paper for storage.
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean a rug?
A: For rugs placed in high-traffic areas, a maintenance schedule of cleaning twice a week is recommended. However, wool rugs require a different approach. They require professional cleanings every year. It would be good if you vacuum them once a week.
Q: How long do rugs last?
A: It depends on several factors. Wool lasts around 15 years, while synthetic doesn’t go longer than 10. Your usage will also affect the lifespan of a rug. You can expect it to last an era if it is well-constructed with tight weaves and quality materials.
Q: Do I need to put anything under the rug?
A: No, unless your rug slides from the floor. You can use a pad to cover the rug from both sides and prevent sliding and dirt simultaneously.
Q: How much does a rug cost, and where should I get it?
A: Usually, an entry-level rug ranges from $50 to $200. To get mid-range or high-end products, you may have to spend from 500 to 100 dollars. Rugs are available at furniture shops, department stores, or online retailers.
Summary
Now that we are almost done, you surely know how to pick the right rug for you. With a complete idea of your home interior and desire, you can select the best rug that’ll last longer with the same comfy offering. Keep the maintenance of your rugs well, and you’ll get the best out of it.
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