Transform Any Room: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Rug
Nothing completes a room quite like a well-chosen rug. Whether you want to add a pop of color, a cozy texture, or a statement-making design, the right rug can tie everything together. But with so many types available, finding the perfect rug can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the major rug types, from the durability of sisal to the plush comfort of wool and the practicality of nylon and polyester.
To bring you expert insights, we consulted five top interior designers. They shared their tips on what makes each rug type special, how to choose the best option for various spaces, and how to balance quality with budget. Here’s everything you need to know.
Meet the Experts
- Shea McGee: Co-founder and creative director of Studio McGee, known for her fresh, transitional style and her work with Target on the Threshold x Studio McGee collection.
- Emily Henderson: Los Angeles-based interior designer and founder of Style by Emily Henderson. Known for her playful, eclectic style, Emily is also a bestselling author and collaborator with major home decor brands.
- Kevin Francis O’Gara: Founder of Kevin Francis Design and creator of the Labyrinth Collection, inspired by French gardens. Kevin has collaborated with brands like The Home Depot and West Elm.
- Warren Barnett: An award-winning designer from Milwaukee who blends classic elegance with modern functionality in his sophisticated interiors.
- Christy Lesseig: Flooring content specialist at Curran and sisalcarpet.com, with a focus on sustainable design and practical flooring solutions.
1. Nylon/Polyester Rugs
Popular and often washable, nylon and polyester rugs are usually machine-made, allowing for a wide range of styles, from plush cut pile to looped textures. Emily Henderson explains, “Cut pile feels plush and sits between a shag and flatwoven rug.” These synthetic rugs are durable, affordable, and easy to clean, making them great for family rooms and rentals.
Recently, indoor/outdoor rugs have also surged in popularity. Made with UV-resistant polypropylene, these rugs can withstand sun exposure and moisture, making them ideal for patios and high-traffic indoor areas. Shea McGee highlights that these rugs combine durability with a soft feel, saying, “They bring long-lasting style and practicality to any space.”
Fast Facts
- Materials: Polypropylene, other synthetic fibers
- Price Range: $-$$
- Durability: Very durable, suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Care Tips: Hose off with water, air dry, and vacuum regularly indoors.
2. Hand-Knotted Rugs
A true investment, hand-knotted rugs are known for their durability, beauty, and the potential to appreciate in value. Warren Barnett explains, “Hand-knotted rugs involve knotting individual fibers—wool, silk, or cotton—onto a loom, resulting in a dense weave that can last for decades.” The meticulous hand-knotting process makes each rug unique, and these rugs are often the preferred choice for high-traffic spaces.
Additionally, Barnett notes that the natural materials and lack of synthetic adhesives in hand-knotted rugs make them an eco-friendly option. These timeless rugs only improve with age, making them ideal for heirloom-quality spaces.
Fast Facts
- Materials: Wool, silk
- Price Range: $$$-$$$$
- Durability: Extremely durable, can last decades
- Care Tips: Regular vacuuming and professional cleaning every few years.
3. Hand-Tufted Rugs
Hand-tufted rugs offer an affordable alternative to hand-knotted rugs. Crafted by using a tufting gun to insert yarn into a pre-woven canvas, these rugs provide a plush feel at a fraction of the cost. Kevin Francis O’Gara suggests choosing a thick, dense pile for comfort in living rooms or bedrooms, while low-pile options are better for high-traffic areas. Available in a wide range of styles, hand-tufted rugs can suit nearly any decor preference.
Fast Facts
- Materials: Wool, latex
- Price Range: $$-$$$
- Durability: Moderate, suitable for low- to medium-traffic areas
- Care Tips: Spot clean as needed and vacuum regularly.
4. Flatweave Rugs
Flatweave rugs, including Kilims and Dhurries, are hand-woven without pile, making them lightweight, versatile, and easy to clean. Emily Henderson recommends adding a memory foam pad underneath for extra comfort, which adds a cushioned feel to this otherwise thin style. Flatweaves are especially popular for layering and are available in vibrant patterns, ideal for adding a boho or eclectic touch to any room.
Fast Facts
- Materials: Cotton, wool
- Price Range: $-$$
- Durability: Durable and low-maintenance
- Care Tips: Steam clean or spot clean; vacuum regularly.
Finding the Right Rug for Your Space
Whether you’re furnishing a high-traffic entryway or a cozy living room, these insights from top designers can guide you in choosing the ideal rug. Embrace the opportunity to add texture, color, and character to your space—knowing that with the right selection, your rug can make a world of difference.
