The Art of Rugs and Carpets

A Comprehensive Guide to Grounding Your Space with the Perfect Rug

By Sarah Mitchell | Senior Home Styling Expert, Guérip

A well-chosen rug doesn't just cover the floor - it defines the room

"The rug is the foundation of a room's design. Get it right, and everything else falls into place. Get it wrong, and even the most beautiful furniture floats untethered." - Sarah Mitchell

Welcome from the Author

Hello, and welcome back to the Guérip Style Library!

I'm Sarah Mitchell, and today we're tackling what I consider the most foundational element of interior design: rugs and carpets.

In my fifteen years of styling homes, I've seen one mistake more often than any other: rugs that are too small. People invest in beautiful furniture, thoughtful accessories, and perfect paint colors, then undermine everything with a rug that looks like it shrank in the wash. The right rug anchors a room, defines conversation areas, adds warmth underfoot, and ties disparate elements together. The wrong rug - or the wrong size - makes even expensive furniture look like it's floating in space.

But size is just the beginning. Material, pile height, pattern, placement, and care all matter tremendously. A jute rug in a formal living room sends a different message than a silk Persian. A high-pile shag in a dining room is a cleaning nightmare. These aren't just aesthetic choices; they're practical ones that affect how you live in your space.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about selecting, sizing, placing, and caring for rugs throughout your home. By the end, you'll have the confidence to choose rugs that not only look beautiful but work beautifully for your life.

Let's lay the groundwork for great design.

Warmly,

Sarah Mitchell Senior Home Styling Expert, Guérip

Introduction

Rugs serve a unique role in interior design. They're functional - providing warmth, comfort, and sound absorption. They're practical - protecting floors and defining zones. And they're deeply aesthetic - introducing color, pattern, and texture while visually anchoring furniture arrangements.

Yet rugs can feel intimidating to shop for. They require significant investment. They're difficult to return once you've tried them in your space. And the options are overwhelming: handmade or machine-made, wool or synthetic, Persian or contemporary, 5x7 or 8x10?

This guide demystifies the process. You'll learn how to determine the right size before you shop (the single most important decision). You'll understand materials and construction well enough to match rugs to rooms and lifestyles. You'll discover placement principles that make your furniture look intentional. And you'll gain practical knowledge about care and maintenance that protects your investment.

A rug is often the largest pattern and the biggest textile purchase in a room. Let's make sure you get it right.

Part One: Understanding Rugs

Rug Terminology

Before diving in, let's establish a common vocabulary:

Area Rug - A rug that covers a portion of the floor, leaving floor surface visible around the edges. Most rugs discussed in this guide are area rugs.

Carpet - Wall-to-wall floor covering installed over the entire floor surface. Sometimes used interchangeably with "rug" but technically different.

Runner - A long, narrow rug typically used in hallways, entryways, or along the side of a bed.

Accent Rug - A small rug (typically 2x3 or 3x5) used to add color or define a small area.

Pile - The surface fibers of a rug. Can be looped, cut, or a combination.

Pile Height - How tall the fibers stand. Low pile is shorter and denser; high pile is taller and plusher.

Flat Weave - Rugs without pile, where the pattern is created by the weave itself (kilims, dhurries).

Hand-Knotted - Rugs made by tying individual knots by hand. Most labor-intensive and typically highest quality.

Hand-Tufted - Rugs made by punching yarn into a backing with a tool. Faster than knotting, mid-range quality.

Machine-Made - Rugs manufactured by power looms. Most affordable, consistent quality.

Knot Count - In hand-knotted rugs, the number of knots per square inch. Higher counts indicate finer detail and typically higher quality.

Types of Rugs by Construction

Hand-Knotted Rugs

The gold standard of rug craftsmanship. Each knot is tied by hand, a process that can take months or even years for large, intricate pieces.

Characteristics:

• Highest durability (can last generations)
• Most expensive
• Slight irregularities indicate handwork
• Can be repaired if damaged
• Often appreciate in value
• Common origins: Iran, Turkey, India, Nepal, Afghanistan

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms where quality investment is justified

Hand-Tufted Rugs

Made by punching yarn through a canvas backing with a tufting gun, then finishing with a secondary backing.

Characteristics:

• Mid-range price point
• Good quality and appearance
• Less durable than hand-knotted
• Latex backing can deteriorate over time
• Faster production allows more contemporary designs
• Wide variety of styles available

Best for: Any room where you want quality appearance without top-tier investment

Flat Weave Rugs (Kilims, Dhurries)

Made on a loom without knots, creating a thin, flat surface with pattern on both sides.

Characteristics:

• Lightweight and easy to move
• Reversible (often)
• Less cushioning underfoot
• Highly durable
• Easy to clean
• More affordable than piled rugs
• Casual, relaxed aesthetic

Best for: High-traffic areas, layering, casual spaces, summer use

Machine-Made Rugs

Manufactured on power looms using synthetic or natural fibers.

Characteristics:

• Most affordable option
• Consistent quality and pattern
• Wide variety of styles available
• Less unique than handmade
• Shorter lifespan than handmade
• Easy to replace

Best for: Budget-conscious rooms, rental properties, kids' rooms, areas where rugs are frequently replaced

Hooked Rugs

Made by pulling loops of yarn through a woven base.

Characteristics:

• Casual, often folk-art aesthetic
• Can be handmade or machine-made
• Durable for their weight
• Often feature pictorial or simple geometric designs
• Popular in cottage and country styles

Best for: Casual spaces, entryways, children's rooms

Braided Rugs

Made by braiding strips of fabric or yarn and coiling them into shape.

Characteristics:

• Casual, rustic aesthetic
• Durable and reversible
• Oval or round shapes common
• Traditional Americana feel
• Can be machine-made or handmade

Best for: Country or farmhouse spaces, mudrooms, casual areas

Types of Rugs by Material

Wool

The most popular and versatile rug material.

Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, any high-investment area

Cotton

Lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean.

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, kids' rooms, casual spaces, layering

Silk

Luxurious, lustrous, and delicate.

Best for: Formal living rooms, bedrooms, wall hangings, low-traffic areas

Jute and Sisal

Natural plant fibers with an organic, textured appearance.

Best for: Living rooms (with layered rug on top), dining rooms (without young children), casual spaces

Seagrass

Similar to jute and sisal but slightly smoother.

Best for: Dining rooms, sunrooms, high-traffic areas, coastal spaces

Synthetic (Polypropylene, Nylon, Polyester)

Man-made fibers that mimic natural materials at lower cost.

Best for: Outdoor spaces, kids' rooms, high-traffic areas, budget-conscious purchases, rental properties

Viscose and Art Silk

Semi-synthetic material made from plant cellulose, designed to mimic silk.

Best for: Low-traffic bedrooms, formal rooms, decorative use

Part Two: Sizing Your Rug

The Most Common Mistake

The number one rug mistake I see is choosing a rug that's too small. A small rug makes furniture look disconnected, the room feel choppy, and the overall design appear unfinished or budget-constrained.

General rule: When in doubt, go larger. A rug that's slightly too big almost always looks better than one that's too small.

Standard Rug Sizes

Understanding standard sizes helps you plan before shopping:

Runners:

• 2' x 6' (short hallway, beside bed)
• 2' x 8' (medium hallway)
• 2.5' x 10' (long hallway)
• 2.5' x 12'+ (very long hallway)

Room-by-Room Sizing Guide

Living Room Sizing

The rug should anchor your seating arrangement. Choose one of these approaches:

Option 1: All legs on the rug

• All furniture legs rest on the rug
• Creates most cohesive look
• Requires largest rug size
• Rug should extend 12-18 inches beyond furniture on all sides
• Best for: formal living rooms, large spaces

Option 2: Front legs on the rug

• Front legs of sofas and chairs on the rug
• Back legs on the floor
• Most common and versatile approach
• Rug extends about 18 inches beyond front of furniture
• Best for: most living rooms

Option 3: All legs off the rug

• Furniture surrounds the rug without touching it
• Rug floats in the center
• Requires very large rug to not look like an island
• Leave 4-6 inches between furniture and rug edge
• Best for: large rooms, if rug is substantial enough

Living Room Size Recommendations:

Dining Room Sizing

The rug must be large enough that chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out from the table.

Rule: Add 48-60 inches to your table dimensions (24-30 inches on each side) to determine rug size.

Bedroom Sizing

Several approaches work in bedrooms:

Option 1: Large rug under bed

• Rug extends 18-24 inches on each side and at foot of bed
• Creates unified, luxurious look
• Most common in master bedrooms

Option 2: Rug at foot of bed

• Smaller rug placed at the foot
• Size: approximately 2/3 of bed width, 5' x 8' typical
• Budget-friendly option
• Works well with nightstand runners

Option 3: Runners on sides

• Two runners flanking the bed
• Creates landing spot when getting out of bed
• Allows smaller investment
• Size: 2.5' x 8' or 3' x 8' each side

Entryway and Hallway Sizing

Entryway:

• Rug should be proportional to the space
• Allow 4-6 inches from walls on sides
• Standard sizes: 3' x 5', 4' x 6', or 5' x 8'
• Round rugs work well in square foyers

Hallway:

• Runner should be 4-6 inches from walls on each side
• Leave 6-12 inches of floor visible at each end
• Width: typically 2' to 3'
• Length: based on hallway, leaving clearance

Home Office Sizing

• Rug should fit under desk and chair
• Chair must roll smoothly on the rug (low pile recommended)
• Common sizes: 5' x 8' or 6' x 9'
• Ensure rug doesn't create tripping hazard at desk

Part Three: Rug Placement Principles

Centering and Positioning

Living Room Placement

The rug should be centered on the main seating arrangement, not the room itself. In open floor plans, the rug defines the living area.

• Center the rug on the primary seating group (sofa and chairs)
• Keep equal borders on all sides when possible
• The rug should not touch walls (leave 12-24 inches of floor showing)
• Coffee table should sit entirely on the rug

Dining Room Placement

Center the rug on the table, ensuring equal space on all sides for chairs.

• Pull out chairs to confirm they stay on the rug
• Leave 24-30 inches from table edge to rug edge (all sides)
• Rug edges should be 24-30 inches from walls
• Center on the table, not the room

Bedroom Placement

Position based on the bed as the anchor:

Under-bed placement:

• Rug extends equally on both sides (18-24 inches)
• Extends 12-18 inches beyond foot of bed
• Can extend slightly under nightstands or not
• Center on the bed, not the room

Side runners:

• Place parallel to bed, 2-3 inches from bed frame
• Position to land feet on rug when getting out of bed
• Center on the length of the bed

Relationship to Furniture

Sofas

• Front legs on rug (minimum)
• All legs on rug (ideal in formal settings)
• Never just back legs on rug

Chairs and Accent Seating

• At least front legs on rug
• Ideally all legs on rug
• All chairs in a conversation group should have same relationship to rug

Coffee Tables

• Entire coffee table on rug
• Never partially on and partially off

Dining Tables

• Center on rug
• All table legs on rug
• All chair legs on rug even when pushed back

Beds

• Centered or positioned per bedroom approach
• Nightstands can be on or off rug
• Ensure rug extends far enough for feet when exiting bed

Rugs in Open Floor Plans

Open concept living requires strategic rug placement to define zones without walls.

Principles:

• Use separate rugs to define separate functions (living, dining)
• Leave clear pathways between zones (18-24 inches minimum)
• Coordinate rugs but don't match exactly
• Ensure each rug is properly sized for its zone
• Consider color and pattern flow between rugs

Layout options:

• Parallel rugs for adjacent zones
• Angled rugs if furniture arrangements are angled
• One large rug for living, separate rug for dining

What to Avoid

Placement mistakes:

• Rug floating in center with all furniture off (looks like an island)
• Rug pushed against one wall
• Different furniture pieces with inconsistent relationship to rug
• Rug too small for the furniture grouping
• Rug under only the coffee table
• Dining rug that doesn't accommodate pushed-back chairs

Part Four: Color, Pattern, and Style

Choosing Rug Colors

The Anchor Approach

Use the rug as your room's color anchor and build the palette from there.

• Choose the rug first
• Pull accent colors from the rug for pillows, accessories
• Select wall color to complement the rug
• Works well for patterned rugs

The Complement Approach

Select the rug to complement existing room colors.

• Identify your room's dominant and accent colors
• Choose a rug that includes one or more of these colors
• Can match exactly or provide contrast
• Works well when furniture and paint are already chosen

Color temperature considerations:

• Warm rugs (reds, oranges, golds) add energy and coziness
• Cool rugs (blues, greens, grays) add calm and sophistication
• Neutral rugs (beige, cream, gray) provide flexibility
• Dark rugs ground a space and hide wear
• Light rugs open up a space but show more dirt

Working with Patterns

Pattern scale:

• Large patterns make rooms feel smaller but more dramatic
• Small patterns read as texture from a distance
• Medium patterns are most versatile

Pattern mixing:

If you have patterned furniture or many decorative elements:

• Choose a solid or subtle rug
• Or choose a rug that complements rather than competes

If your room is relatively plain:

• A patterned rug adds interest and personality
• Can be the room's focal point

Classic rug patterns:

Matching Rugs to Design Styles

Modern/Contemporary

• Geometric patterns or solid colors
• Low pile or flat weave
• Neutral colors or bold graphic statements
• Clean edges and lines
• Materials: wool, synthetic, flat weaves

Traditional

• Persian, Oriental, or Aubusson patterns
• Rich colors (navy, burgundy, gold)
• Intricate designs with borders
• Medium pile
• Materials: wool, silk, wool blends

Transitional

• Updated traditional patterns
• Muted or modern color palettes
• Can be patterned or solid with texture
• Versatile styling
• Materials: wool, wool blends, viscose

Farmhouse/Rustic

• Natural fibers (jute, sisal)
• Braided rugs
• Muted patterns or stripes
• Casual, unfussy appearance
• Materials: jute, cotton, wool

Coastal

• Light colors (blue, white, sand)
• Natural textures
• Subtle patterns or solid
• Indoor/outdoor materials work well
• Materials: jute, cotton, synthetic

Bohemian

• Layered rugs
• Vintage or vintage-style
• Rich colors and patterns
• Kilims and tribal patterns
• Materials: wool, cotton kilims, vintage pieces

Mid-Century Modern

• Geometric or abstract patterns
• Period-appropriate colors (orange, teal, mustard)
• Shag or textured piles
• Bold statements
• Materials: wool, shag, period-appropriate synthetics

Scandinavian

• Light colors (white, gray, pale blue)
• Simple geometric patterns
• Natural materials
• Cozy textures
• Materials: wool, cotton, sheepskin

Part Five: Layering Rugs

Why Layer Rugs

Layering has become increasingly popular and offers several benefits:

• Adds visual interest and texture
• Allows mixing patterns and colors
• Can make an undersized rug work
• Creates a collected, personal look
• Enables seasonal changes
• Provides additional cushioning

Layering Basics

Base rug:

• Usually larger, neutral, and natural fiber
• Jute, sisal, or seagrass are common choices
• Should extend beyond the top rug significantly
• Flat weave or low pile works best as base

Top rug:

• Smaller, more decorative
• Can be patterned, colorful, or textured
• Should be appropriately sized for the furniture
• Any material works

Layering Approaches

Natural base with decorative top:

• Large jute rug as base
• Smaller Persian, kilim, or patterned rug on top
• Most common and versatile approach

Solid base with patterned top:

• Solid wool or synthetic base
• Patterned or colorful rug on top
• Works when you want more cohesion than natural fiber provides

Two patterned rugs:

• Requires careful coordination
• Keep one pattern larger scale, one smaller
• Share at least one color
• More challenging but can be stunning

Layering Guidelines

Size relationships:

• Top rug should be noticeably smaller than base
• Base should extend 8-12 inches beyond top rug on all sides
• Both rugs should be proportional to furniture

Positioning:

• Top rug centered on base (most common)
• Top rug positioned toward seating area
• Slight angle can work but should look intentional

What to avoid:

• Two rugs of similar size
• Thick pile on thick pile (creates instability)
• Patterns that compete rather than complement
• Colors that clash
• Top rug that's too small to function

Part Six: Rug Pads

Why You Need a Rug Pad

Never skip the rug pad. It serves multiple essential functions:

Safety: Prevents rug from slipping on hard floors

Comfort: Adds cushioning underfoot

Protection: Prevents rug from wearing against hard flooring

Floor protection: Prevents color transfer and scratching

Longevity: Extends the life of your rug significantly

Sound: Reduces noise and echo

Types of Rug Pads

Felt Pads

• Made from recycled fibers
• Best for: cushioning and protection
• Good for: thick rugs, hard floors
• Less grip than rubber

Rubber Pads

• Natural or synthetic rubber
• Best for: grip and preventing slipping
• Good for: thin rugs, flat weaves
• Less cushioning than felt

Felt and Rubber Combination

• Combines cushioning with grip
• Best for: most applications
• Good for: all rug types on hard floors
• Most versatile option

PVC Pads

• Affordable option
• Can damage some floor finishes over time
• Not recommended for hardwood or expensive flooring
• Budget option for rentals

Sizing Rug Pads

The rule: Rug pad should be 1 inch smaller than the rug on all sides.

Buy pads slightly larger and trim to fit if exact sizes aren't available.

Pad Thickness

Note: Very thick pads can make doors catch or create tripping hazards at rug edges.

Part Seven: Room-by-Room Guide

Living Room

The living room rug is often the largest and most important in the home.

Key considerations:

• Size to accommodate seating arrangement
• Front legs on rug minimum
• Coffee table entirely on rug
• Medium pile works well (comfortable but manageable)
• Pattern and color set room's tone

Material recommendations:

• Wool (durability, appearance, comfort)
• Wool blend (budget-friendly alternative)
• Synthetic (if budget is primary concern)

Style tips:

• Rug should complement, not compete with, furniture
• Consider traffic patterns
• Patterned rugs hide wear better than solid
• Darker colors hide dirt better

Dining Room

The dining room presents unique challenges due to chair movement and food exposure.

Key considerations:

• Size must accommodate pulled-out chairs
• Low pile or flat weave recommended
• Easy-clean materials essential
• Dark colors or patterns hide stains better

Material recommendations:

• Wool (durable, naturally stain-resistant)
• Flat weave (easy to clean)
• Indoor/outdoor synthetic (most practical)
• Avoid: high pile, silk, viscose

Style tips:

• Pattern hides crumbs and stains
• Consider skipping rug if young children eat messily
• Ensure chairs move easily
• Vacuum frequently

Bedroom

The bedroom is about comfort and quiet.

Key considerations:

• Soft, comfortable pile for bare feet
• Size to extend beyond bed sides
• Coordinate with bedding and room palette
• Sound absorption is a benefit

Material recommendations:

• Wool (soft, warm, durable)
• Cotton (soft, washable)
• Shag or high pile (luxurious feel)
• Viscose (silk-like in low-traffic bedroom)

Style tips:

• Light colors feel serene
• Soft textures enhance comfort
• Runners on sides are practical alternative
• Placement should ensure feet land on rug

Kids' Rooms and Playrooms

These spaces demand durability and cleanability.

Key considerations:

• Must be easy to clean
• Should withstand heavy use
• Comfortable for floor play
• Consider machine-washable options

Material recommendations:

• Cotton (washable)
• Synthetic (durable, affordable, easy clean)
• Indoor/outdoor (extremely durable)
• Avoid: wool (harder to clean), natural fibers (stain easily)

Style tips:

• Fun patterns engage children
• Bold colors hide stains
• Consider multiple smaller rugs rather than one large
• Layer with a washable top rug

Home Office

The office needs a rug that works with desk chairs.

Key considerations:

• Chair must roll smoothly
• Low pile essential under desk
• Rug should not bunch under chair
• Should define the workspace area

Material recommendations:

• Flat weave (best for chair rolling)
• Low pile wool or synthetic
• Commercial-style carpet tiles
• Avoid: high pile, shag, loose weaves

Style tips:

• Patterned rugs hide chair wear
• Ensure rug extends under entire desk and chair area
• Consider a separate chair mat if needed
• Rug can define work zone in multipurpose room

Entryways and Mudrooms

These hardworking spaces need hardworking rugs.

Key considerations:

• Must handle dirt and moisture
• Easy to clean essential
• Durable for heavy traffic
• Should fit space without blocking doors

Material recommendations:

• Indoor/outdoor synthetic (most durable)
• Flat weave (easy to shake out and clean)
• Natural fiber (hides dirt, affordable to replace)
• Avoid: light colors, high pile, delicate materials

Style tips:

• Dark colors or patterns hide dirt
• Choose rugs you can easily replace
• Consider layering with a doormat inside
• Make sure doors clear the rug easily

Hallways

Runners make hallways feel intentional and comfortable.

Key considerations:

• Proper width (leave 4-6 inches on each side)
• Low pile for high traffic
• Durable material
• Rug pad essential to prevent slipping

Material recommendations:

• Wool (durable, long-lasting)
• Flat weave (practical, durable)
• Synthetic (affordable, easy care)
• Avoid: delicate materials, high pile

Style tips:

• Runners elongate hallways visually
• Pattern runs length of hallway
• Coordinate with adjacent room rugs
• Consider multiple runners for very long hallways

Bathrooms

Bathroom rugs must handle moisture.

Key considerations:

• Must dry quickly
• Mold and mildew resistant
• Machine washable preferred
• Safe non-slip backing

Material recommendations:

• Cotton (absorbent, washable)
• Microfiber (quick-drying)
• Memory foam bath mats
• Avoid: natural fibers (deteriorate), non-washable materials

Style tips:

• Multiple small rugs work better than large
• Change and wash frequently
• Coordinate with towels and decor
• Consider quick-dry options for humid bathrooms

Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor rugs define conversation areas and add comfort.

Key considerations:

• Must withstand weather
• Fade resistant
• Quick drying
• Easy to clean

Material recommendations:

• Polypropylene (most common outdoor material)
• Recycled plastic
• Indoor/outdoor synthetics
• Avoid: natural fibers, wool, cotton

Style tips:

• Bold patterns work well outdoors
• Size as you would indoor spaces
• Anchor with furniture to prevent wind movement
• Bring in or cover during harsh weather

Part Eight: Care and Maintenance

Regular Care

Vacuuming:

• Vacuum high-traffic rugs twice weekly
• Vacuum low-traffic rugs weekly
• Use appropriate vacuum setting for pile height
• Avoid fringe (can damage vacuum or rug)
• Vacuum both directions to lift pile

Rotation:

• Rotate rugs 180 degrees every 6-12 months
• Equalizes wear and fading
• Especially important for rugs in sunny areas
• Note: some hand-knotted rugs have directional pile

Spot cleaning:

• Blot spills immediately (never rub)
• Work from outside of stain toward center
• Use appropriate cleaner for material
• Test cleaners in inconspicuous area first
• Blot dry, don't leave wet

Deep Cleaning

How often:

• Professional cleaning every 1-3 years
• More frequently for high-traffic or allergy concerns
• When visible soiling occurs

DIY vs. professional:

DIY cleaning tips:

• Follow manufacturer instructions
• Use appropriate products for material
• Test first in hidden area
• Dry thoroughly to prevent mold
• Consider outdoor cleaning when weather permits

Stain Removal Guide

Water-based stains (coffee, juice, wine):

1. Blot immediately with clean cloth
2. Apply cold water and blot
3. Use mild dish soap solution if needed
4. Rinse with clean water, blot dry
5. Air dry completely

Oil-based stains (grease, makeup):

1. Scrape excess gently
2. Apply dry cleaning solvent or rubbing alcohol
3. Blot with clean cloth
4. Repeat as needed
5. Air dry completely

Pet stains:

1. Blot fresh urine immediately
2. Apply enzyme-based cleaner
3. Follow product instructions
4. May require multiple treatments
5. Professional cleaning for severe stains

General stain rules:

• Act fast (fresh stains are easier)
• Always blot, never rub
• Work outside in to prevent spreading
• Test any cleaner first
• When in doubt, call a professional

Storage

If storing rugs:

• Clean thoroughly before storing
• Roll, don't fold (prevents creases)
• Roll with pile facing inward
• Wrap in breathable material (cotton sheet, not plastic)
• Store in climate-controlled area
• Check periodically for pests
• Moth protection for wool

Dealing with Common Issues

Shedding:

• Normal for new wool rugs
• Decreases over time (first few months)
• Vacuum regularly to remove loose fibers
• Don't pull loose fibers (cut instead)

Crushing/Matting:

• Ice cube method: place ice on crushed area, let melt, blot dry, fluff with spoon
• Steam: hover steamer over area (don't touch), fluff with fingers
• Vacuum on high setting to lift pile

Curling edges:

• Place heavy furniture on edges temporarily
• Use rug tape on back
• Steam and weigh down edges
• Give new rugs time to relax flat

Fading:

• Prevent with window treatments
• Rotate regularly
• Move out of direct sunlight if possible
• Accept graceful aging for natural materials

Part Nine: Budget and Shopping Strategy

Budget Considerations

Where to invest:

• Main living room rug (largest visual impact)
• Rugs in rooms you use most
• Quality materials that last
• Classic patterns that won't date

Where to save:

• Kids' rooms (they outgrow styles, rugs take abuse)
• Temporary spaces (rentals, guest rooms)
• Layering base rugs
• Trend-driven patterns
• High-replacement areas (mudrooms, kitchens)

Price Expectations by Type

Shopping Tips

Measure first:

• Know your exact size needs before shopping
• Map furniture placement
• Consider doorswing clearance
• Account for rug pad thickness

Order samples:

• Many retailers offer sample swatches
• See color and texture in your space
• Check against existing furnishings
• Evaluate in different lighting

Return policies:

• Confirm return policy before purchasing
• Large rugs are difficult to return
• Some retailers offer in-home trials
• Save packaging until certain

Where to shop:

Part Ten: Troubleshooting Common Problems

"My rug looks too small"

Solutions:

• It probably is too small; consider replacing
• Layer over a larger base rug
• Pull furniture arrangement closer together
• Accept that properly sized rugs cost more

"The colors looked different online"

Solutions:

• View in natural light and evening light
• Order samples before large purchases
• Review return policy options
• Adjust room colors if rug works otherwise

"My rug won't lay flat"

Solutions:

• Roll in reverse direction overnight
• Steam and weight down corners
• Place heavy furniture on problem areas
• Give new rugs 1-2 weeks to relax
• Use rug tape on stubborn edges

"The rug makes my room feel dark"

Solutions:

• Dark rugs can absorb light
• Add additional lighting
• Consider a lighter rug
• Layer a lighter rug on top

"My rug slides everywhere"

Solutions:

• Add or replace rug pad
• Use appropriate pad for your floor type
• Consider furniture anchoring the rug
• Check that pad is not worn out

"My rug sheds constantly"

Solutions:

• New wool rugs shed for several months
• Vacuum frequently to remove loose fibers
• If shedding continues after 6 months, rug may be poor quality
• Never pull loose fibers; cut them

"I can't find the right size"

Solutions:

• Custom sizing available from many retailers
• Consider layering to adjust effective size
• Use multiple rugs in large spaces
• Hire a professional to cut and bind oversize rugs

"My chairs catch on the rug in the dining room"

Solutions:

• Pile is too high for dining; consider replacing
• Flat weave is best for dining rooms
• Indoor/outdoor rugs slide chairs easily
• Ensure chairs and rug are compatible

"The pattern overwhelms the room"

Solutions:

• Simplify other elements (solid pillows, plain curtains)
• Let the rug be the star
• Consider a solid rug instead
• Patterns work best with neutral surroundings

Conclusion: The Foundation of Good Design

A rug does more than cover your floor. It grounds your furniture, defines your space, adds warmth and comfort, and sets the entire tone of a room. It's often the largest pattern in a space, the biggest textile purchase, and the foundation upon which everything else rests.

Take your time with rug decisions. Measure carefully. Consider how you live in your space. Think about what your floor will endure from children, pets, dinner parties, and daily life. Invest where investment makes sense, and be practical where practicality matters more.

And remember the cardinal rule: when in doubt, go bigger. An undersized rug is the most common mistake I see, and it's easily avoided. A rug that's slightly too large will almost always look better than one that's too small.

Your floors deserve the foundation that will make your furniture look intentional, your rooms feel complete, and your home feel truly grounded.

This guide is part of the Guérip Home Styling Series by Sarah Mitchell.

More guides in the series:

• The Art of Soft Furnishings
• The Art of Decorative Objects
• The Art of Lighting
• The Art of Mirrors
• Window Treatments: From Basics to Beautiful
• Color Theory for the Everyday Home
• Seasonal Refresh: A Room-by-Room Transition Guide

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Size Quick Guide

Material by Room

The Golden Rules

1. When in doubt, go larger
2. At least front legs of furniture on the rug
3. All dining chairs must stay on rug when pushed back
4. Always use a rug pad
5. Rotate rugs every 6-12 months
6. Vacuum regularly
7. Blot spills immediately, never rub
8. Professional clean every 1-3 years

Common Size Math

Living Room: Room dimensions minus 2-3 feet on each side

Dining Room: Table dimensions plus 4-5 feet total (2-2.5 feet each side)

Bedroom: Bed width plus 3-4 feet, bed length plus 2-3 feet

Hallway: Hall width minus 8-12 inches; length minus 12-24 inches

Furniture Placement Options

About Guérip

Guérip is dedicated to helping you create spaces that reflect your unique style and support your everyday life. Through expert guidance, curated collections, and practical inspiration, we believe that beautiful living should be accessible to everyone.

Visit us at www.guerip.com to explore our full range of home styling resources.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell is Guérip's Senior Home Styling Expert with over fifteen years of experience in interior design and home staging. She has been featured in leading home and lifestyle publications and is known for her approachable, practical advice that helps real people create beautiful spaces on real budgets. Sarah believes that every home has potential - it just needs the right touches to shine.

Guérip - Designing spaces. Creating homes.

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Happy styling!