Carpet Shopping Guide

A rug can radically change the decoration of your space, making it more beautiful, warmer, and more welcoming. That's why, before purchasing new rugs, it is advisable to consult this rug buying guide so that you can make the best choice for every area of your home!

Step 1: Choose the size of the rug:

Choosing the correct size is important to ensure that it fits aesthetically and functionally in your space. Each space has its own requirements.

Living Room:

The dimensions of the rug in the living room depend on your space and the way you want to decorate the area. There are various options, but a common guideline is to choose a rug that will be larger than the sofa, so that the sofas can be placed on it and it extends 30-40 centimeters from their back side, thus creating a unified and balanced aesthetic in the space. This is usually done mainly during the colder months of the year or in large spaces.

Another common approach is to choose a rug that covers the area in front of the sofa and the living room furniture. You can place the rug under half the width of the sofa and under the entire coffee table. A good rug size for this approach is to be about 20-30 centimeters larger than the length of the sofa. If you have a small living room, then prefer a rug that does not go under the sofas, so the space will automatically appear larger. A rug that is 10-20 centimeters smaller than the sofas is also ideal for the summer months.

In general, it is recommended to measure the area you want to cover-decorate with the rug and consider which of the above versions suits you best. If your living room is very large, then you can "play" by choosing rugs in different sizes and shapes. E.g. you can place a rectangular rug inside the sofas and under the central coffee table and choose a round or square rug to conceptually "separate" your living room and create a beautiful corner, by placing a bergère/armchair and a side table on the round or square rug.

Dining Room:

The appropriate size of the rug in the dining room depends on the design of your dining area, the number of chairs you have, and your preferences regarding the area you want the rug to cover. There are some general rules you can follow to choose the right rug size for your dining room:

Dining Area Size: Rugs for the dining room must be large enough to cover the area under the dining table, but also leave sufficient space for the chairs to move without sticking to the rug's fabric. It is usually suggested to add about 60-70 centimeters to each side of the table to ensure that the rug covers the dining area.

Design: If you have a rectangular dining table with chairs placed gathered under the table, then you should choose a rectangular rug. If you have a dining area with a round table, then prefer a round rug, i.e., a rotunda.

Preferences: It is important to consider your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you prefer a more luxurious and impressive style, you can choose a larger rug that covers a larger portion of the floor. If you want it to look simpler and more functional, you can choose a smaller rug that only covers the area under the table.

Bedroom:

The size of the rug in the bedroom depends on the bedroom space, your decoration, and your personal preferences. Here are some general rules you can consider to choose the appropriate rug size for your bedroom:

Bed: The rug must be large enough to cover the area around the bed. A common approach is to choose a rug that covers the bed area and is at least 60-70 centimeters larger on each side. This creates a nice balance and ensures the rug is visible even when you step out of bed. If your bed does not have a gap underneath, then the bedroom rug sets, which form a "U" shape and cover the space to the right, left, and the bottom side of the bed, are an ideal choice.

Decoration: If you want to create a relaxation area in front of the bed, you can choose one or two small rugs for the sides of the bed and a large rug to cover that large area in front of the bed. On the large rug, you can place an armchair, a stool, or a dressing table with a luxurious velvet chair and make your bedroom even more ergonomic and elegant.

Personal Preferences: Choose the rug size you like and that fits the style of your bedroom. If you prefer a larger rug that covers most of the floor, then you can choose it regardless of the bed size. As there are also those who either don't like their house floor or prefer that Scandinavian style that requires covering the entire floor with carpets.

Kitchen:

The size of the rug in the kitchen depends on your kitchen space and how you use it. Some guiding principles for choosing the appropriate rug size for the kitchen are as follows:

Determine the Space: First and foremost, measure the available space in your kitchen. This will help you understand how large or small a rug you can place there.

Area Selection: Consider which area of the kitchen you would like to cover with the rug or if you need to choose a kitchen mat and a larger rug. Usually, the kitchen mat is placed in the area in front of the sink or the stove, where there is more traffic and activity, to protect the floor from moisture and stains. If your kitchen is large and there is also a table with chairs inside, you can combine the kitchen mat with a larger rug that will be placed under the table and chairs, both to keep your feet warm when you eat and to decorate the space, making it look larger.

Hallway:

If your hallway is narrow, then it is advisable to choose a runner rug. At designdrops, you can select the length of the runner so that it is cut and edged exactly to your measurements. However, if your hallway is more spacious, you can choose one of the small rectangular rugs or a modern round rug, which will redefine the dimensions of your space.

Step 2: Choose the type of rug:

The choice of rug type depends mainly on your personal preferences, the style of your decoration, and the purpose you want the rug to serve in your space. Each type of rug has its own advantages and characteristics. To make a choice, take a look at your space, your decorating style, and the feeling you want to evoke. Also, include the practical side, such as the level of maintenance you are ready to invest and the frequency of use of the rug. Here are some questions you can think about that will help you reach a decision:

• What is your decorating style? Classic, modern, industrial, traditional, etc.?
• What feeling do you want to evoke? Ease, elegance, naturalness, warmth, etc.?
• How long do you want to have the rug laid? Are you looking for a long-term investment or something more seasonal?
• Are there children or pets in the house? This may affect your choice regarding material, cost, and durability.
• What are the current rug fashion trends?

As you answer these questions, you will have a better idea of the type of rug that best suits your needs and style.

Let's take a look at the most common types of rugs:

Classic Rugs:

Classic rugs usually have traditional designs and colors, inspired by ancient and traditional cultures. These rugs often feature subtle patterns, motifs, and geometric shapes inherited from older eras. Classic rug types are primarily choices for those who appreciate tradition, history, and culture. They are usually chosen for spaces that have a classic, traditional decoration. Classic rugs can add a sense of elegance, romance, and character to the space, enhancing its welcoming and warm atmosphere.

Modern Rugs:

Modern rugs feature contemporary and fashionable designs, usually expressing the trends and style of the time. These rugs often use simple linear, geometric motifs, abstract designs, smooth surfaces, and are usually distinguished by the absence of complexity. Modern rugs are ideal for spaces with contemporary or minimal decoration. They are usually chosen when owners wish to add a sense of freshness, cleanliness, and contemporary style to their space. They can also be used to emphasize a particular decorative piece or to create a contrast with more classic elements in the space.

Woven/Straw Rugs:

Woven/Straw rugs are made from natural materials, such as straw (reed), jute, bamboo, and also synthetic straw. These rugs usually have a natural color and texture, giving a natural and relaxed feel to the space. They are often handmade and may have simple or abstract motifs. Natural rugs impart a sense of natural beauty and simplicity to the space, making it appear more welcoming and relaxed. They are ideal for spaces where you want to add a seaside or coastal atmosphere. They are often chosen for outdoor areas, such as balconies, patios, or gardens, to create a natural and pleasant atmosphere.

Handmade Rugs:

Handmade rugs are rugs made by hand, using techniques that require skill and artistry. These rugs are usually created by specialized craftsmen, who use traditional methods to create unique and high-quality handcrafted pieces. As they are made by hand, handmade rugs are unique and different from other rugs. This makes them suitable for those seeking something special and unique. The process of making a handmade rug requires a lot of manual labor and artistry. This creates a work of art that can showcase the aesthetic quality of the space. Because they are handmade and use high-quality materials, handmade rugs are usually very durable and can last for many generations. Handmade rugs are ideal for those who appreciate art, quality, and uniqueness in their space decoration.

Summer Rugs:

Summer rugs are suitable for the summer season, when the weather is warm and the atmosphere is lighter. Usually, these rugs are made of light and cool materials, have bright colors and designs that respond to the energy of summer. During the summer, many people look for ways to refresh their space decoration. Summer rugs can be a quick and revitalizing addition. They are often associated with the atmosphere of holidays and the sea breeze, offering an air of relaxation and escape.

Runners:

Runners are long and narrow rugs placed in corridors, usually indoors, to create a walkway or path between different areas. These rugs are specially designed to fit narrow spaces such as hallways, lobbies, surrounding interior areas, etc. Runners serve as pathways for traffic between various spaces. They are placed where there is frequent movement, to provide a comfortable and pleasant step. Runners can function as focal points in the space. By using appropriate designs and colors, they can add aesthetic value.

Bedroom Sets:

Bedroom rug sets are a combination of rugs, usually two or three elongated rugs, placed around the bed creating a "U" shape, offering an overall aesthetic and functional upgrade to the sleeping area. A bedroom set offers convenience and a quick solution for decorating the bedroom and saves space, while providing comfort in stepping and cleaning. Bedroom sets are often designed with comfort and aesthetics in mind. You can choose sets that combine appearance and comfort for a balanced feel.

Kitchen Mats:

Kitchen mats are small rugs placed on the floor of the kitchen. They are usually placed in front of the sink, the stove, or the counter, where various activities such as cooking, washing, etc. often occur. They protect the floor from moisture, oils, stains, and impacts that may be caused by the daily use of the kitchen. Many kitchen mats are made with a non-slip surface, offering additional safety for the user. During cooking, the hours spent in the kitchen can be many. The mats offer a soft surface to walk on, relieving pressure on the feet and back. Kitchen mats can add color, design, and aesthetic appeal to the space. By choosing mats with colors and patterns that match the decoration, you can create a pleasant atmosphere. Kitchen mats are useful accessories for improving the functionality, safety, and aesthetics of your kitchen.

Children's/Teen Rugs:

Children's and teen rugs are designed specifically for children's and teenagers' rooms. These rugs usually have playful, cheerful, and vibrant designs, as well as colors that are attractive to children and teenagers. They are designed to meet the interests, style, and needs of children. Children's and teenagers' rooms often require a more playful and friendly style. Rugs with cheerful and playful designs add aesthetic value to the space and provide a soft and comfortable surface for games, reading, and rest. Children's rugs with alphabets, numbers, geometric shapes, and other educational elements can encourage learning and play. Also, children's rugs are made from purer and friendlier materials, with safety certifications and hypoallergenic raw materials.

Entrance Mats:

Entrance mats are small rugs placed primarily at the entrance of a building, either outdoors (e.g., in front of the front door) or indoors (e.g., in front of the doorstep). Entrance mats are usually made of durable materials such as fabrics, rubber, or plastic, and are designed to withstand wear, moisture, and dirt. An entrance mat acts as the first line of defense for the interior space. It keeps dirt, moisture, and dust away from the inside space, helping to keep it clean. It protects the floor from scratches, wear, and deterioration that may be caused by the hard materials that the shoe sole may carry. Entrance mats can add aesthetic value and style to the entrance. It is an opportunity to express yourself and add a personal or seasonal element to the space. Overall, entrance mats play an important role in maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and aesthetics of a building's entrance area.

Step 3: Choose the quality of the rug:

The rugs can be made from various materials, which affect the properties and characteristics of the rug. Each composition can have a different feel, wear resistance, and aesthetic. The most frequently used materials for rug construction are: 

Cotton Rugs:

The cotton rugs are made from cotton yarns. It is a good choice for interior spaces and for those who appreciate the natural feel and environmental friendliness. They have both advantages and disadvantages, and their selection depends on your needs and preferences.

Advantages:

• Environmentally friendly: Cotton is a natural material, derived from the cotton plant and is biodegradable, making cotton rugs environmentally friendly.
• Lightweight: Cotton rugs are light and flexible, which makes them easy to place and clean.
• Cool: They are suitable for summer months, as cotton allows air to breathe and keeps the space cool.
• Easy to clean: Cotton rugs are usually user-friendly and can even be washed in a washing machine.
• Economical: They are usually more economical compared to rugs made of more expensive materials such as wool or jute.

Disadvantages:

• Vulnerable to wear: Cotton may be less resistant to wear compared to other materials, such as wool or polyester.
• Difficulty in removing stains: Some stains may be difficult to remove from cotton rugs, especially if not treated quickly. 
• Necessary maintenance: Cotton rugs may require more frequent cleaning than other materials, as they can easily trap dirt and dust. 

Wool Rugs:

The wool rugs are made from the natural fiber of wool, which comes from the fleece of sheep or other ruminant animals. It is a natural material that has been used for centuries for the construction of crafts and woven garments, including rugs. Wool rugs have a number of advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account when choosing a rug.

Advantages:

• High Quality and Durability: Wool rugs are known for their high quality and durability over time. The natural wool fiber is resistant to wear.
• Softness and Warmth: Wool rugs are very soft to the touch and offer warmth to the space. They are ideal for the winter months.
• Natural Moisture Absorption: Wool has the ability to absorb moisture, keeping the environment drier. This makes it suitable for areas with high humidity.
• Natural Stain Resistance: Wool tends to repel dirt and stains, making cleaning easier.
• Aesthetic Value: Wool rugs often have complex and beautiful designs, making them an aesthetically interesting element in the space.

Disadvantages:

• High Cost: Wool rugs are usually more expensive compared to rugs made of other materials, due to the high quality of the wool.
• Sensitivity to Humidity: Wool rugs can react to moisture, which can cause odor or mold if not dried well.
• Difficulty in Cleaning: Cleaning wool rugs can be more careful, requiring special care and cleaning products.
• Sensitivity to Pets: If you have pets that shed hair, this can be a challenge for the cleanliness of the wool rug.

Polypropylene Rugs 

Polypropylene rugs are a popular choice due to their advantages, but they also have some disadvantages that should be taken into account. They are ideal for high-traffic areas, where ease of cleaning and durability are important.

Advantages:

• Resistance to Moisture: Polypropylene resists moisture and prevents water from being absorbed deep into the fibers. This makes polypropylene rugs suitable for areas where there is a risk of spills or humidity.
• Ease of Cleaning: Polypropylene rugs are easy to clean and can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or even with water and a mild detergent.
• Resistance to Wear: Polypropylene is resistant to wear and abrasion, making rugs made of this material suitable for high-traffic areas. 
• Economical: Polypropylene rugs are usually economical compared to rugs made of natural materials such as wool or cotton.

Disadvantages:

• Less Warmth and Feel: Polypropylene rugs do not provide the same feeling of warmth and softness as natural materials like wool. 
• Synthetic Material: Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber that cannot offer the natural feel of other materials, such as cotton.

Polyester Rugs:

It is a synthetic material produced by chemical processes. Polyester is known for its durability over time, moisture, and abrasion resistance.

Advantages: 

• Resistance to Wear: Polyester rugs are resistant to wear and abrasion, making them suitable for high-traffic areas.
• Resistance to Moisture: Polyester resists moisture and does not absorb water. 
• Easy Cleaning: Polyester rugs are easy to clean and can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or even with water and a mild detergent. 
• Economical: Polyester rugs are usually economical and offer an affordable option for decoration. 
• Variety of designs: Because it is a synthetic material, rugs made of polyester can be molded into various textures, colors, and designs, offering great flexibility in design.

Disadvantages:

• Less Warmth and Feel: As with polypropylene rugs, polyester rugs do not provide the same feeling of warmth and softness as natural materials like wool.
• Sensitivity to High Temperatures: Polyester can react to high temperatures,
• Texture: Due to the fact that it is a synthetic material, it often does not offer the same natural feeling of softness that other materials, such as cotton, offer.

Leather Rugs:

Leather rugs are an original and luxurious choice for the decoration of the space. This type of rug is made from various types of leather, usually cowhide.

Advantages:

• Luxury and Uniqueness: Leather rugs offer a sense of luxury and uniqueness to the space. Leather is a material that combines natural beauty and refined aesthetics.
• Durability: Leather is a durable material that can withstand wear and abrasion over time. It is usually a good choice for high-traffic areas.
• Ease of Cleaning: Leather does not easily absorb moisture and stains.

Disadvantages:

• High Cost: Leather rugs are usually expensive due to the nature of the material. Leather is a luxury material and their construction requires specialized skills.
• Sensitivity to Light and Temperature: Leather can be affected by exposure to intense light and high temperatures, causing discoloration and alteration of the texture.
• Care: Leather rugs require regular care and maintenance, such as treatment and cleaning with special products that preserve their texture and appearance.
• Ecological Cost: The raw material for leather rugs comes from animals usually raised for their meat and skin. This can be an ethical factor for someone not to choose a genuine leather rug and resort to leather rugs made of ecological faux leather.

Woven/Mat Rugs:

Woven/mat rugs are usually naturally handcrafted rugs made from vegetable material such as jute, sisal, and other similar materials. These rugs have a natural look and feel, adding an organic character to the space.

Advantages:

• Natural Beauty: Woven/mat rugs offer a natural beauty and warmth to the space. The natural colors and feel of the natural material can create a relaxing and pleasant environment.
• Biodegradable Material: Woven materials and other vegetable materials used for rugs are natural, biodegradable materials. This means that at the end of their life, woven/mat rugs can be less of a burden on the environment than synthetic materials.

Disadvantages:

• Sensitivity to Moisture and Exposure: Woven/mat rugs can be sensitive to moisture and exposure to direct sunlight. The matting can warp or deteriorate over time. 
• Limited Durability: The matting is a natural material and may not have the same durability as other synthetic materials. This can limit the lifespan of the rug. It should be noted that there are also woven/mat rugs that are made of synthetic woven material, i.e., from materials that are not natural, e.g., from polyester or polypropylene, so in this case they have the beautiful texture and appearance of the matting but also combine the advantages and disadvantages of synthetic materials.

Rugs From Jute- Seagrass – Bamboo – Coconut- Hemp:

Vegetable materials such as jute, hemp, seagrass, bamboo, and coconut are used to create natural fibers. These fibred materials can be woven or braided to create rugs. Craftsmen can use various techniques to create diverse designs and textures.

Advantages:

• Natural Beauty: Vegetable materials give the rugs a natural and organic look. The texture and colors of these materials can create a unique character in the space.
• Sustainable Option: Materials such as jute, hemp, bamboo, sisal, and coconut are natural, biodegradable materials that offer a more sustainable option than synthetic materials. 
• Suitable for Allergies: These materials are usually naturally anti-static and absorb less dust and allergens compared to other materials.

Disadvantages:

• Sensitivity to Moisture and Exposure: Like woven/mat rugs, rugs made of vegetable materials can be sensitive to moisture and exposure to direct sunlight.
• Limited Durability: Vegetable materials may not have the same durability as other materials, and this can limit their lifespan.

Nylon – Acrylic Rugs:

Rugs made of acrylic or nylon are products of artificial fibers made from synthetic materials. These materials offer different characteristics compared to natural materials and can provide various advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

• Durability: Acrylic or nylon rugs are generally resistant to wear, abrasion, and use. These materials can withstand time and daily pressures, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or even professional environments.
• Ease of Care: Synthetic materials are generally easier to care for than natural materials. Acrylic and nylon rugs can be cleaned more easily and with less maintenance.
• Variety of Designs and Colors: Because they are chemically produced, acrylic and nylon rugs can feature a variety of designs, colors, and textures.
• Economy: Synthetic rugs are quite more economical than rugs made from natural materials.

Disadvantages:

• Colder Surface Feel: Synthetic materials can have a colder feel compared to natural materials, such as wool.
• Static Electricity Potential: Synthetic materials can generate static electricity, causing the accumulation of dust and hair.

Chenille Rugs:

Chenille rugs are made with a process that combines various fibers to create the characteristic texture. Typically, a dense fiber base is used as the fabric's foundation, and additional fibers with a soft and rich texture are added to the surface. The surface fibers create the distinctive, velvet-like chenille texture.

Advantages:

• Luxury and Comfort: Chenille fabric offers a sense of luxury and comfort due to its soft and gentle texture. It is ideal for creating warmer and more welcoming spaces.
• Variety of Designs and Colors: Chenille rugs are available in a variety of designs, colors, and textures. This makes them suitable for customizing the fabric to your specific space.
• Application: Chenille rugs are suitable for various areas, such as the living room, bedroom, office, and other interior spaces.

Disadvantages:

• Care: Chenille rugs may require careful care, as the surface fibers can be damaged and absorb dust and dirt. Daily maintenance and periodic cleaning are necessary to maintain their appearance.

Silk – Viscose Rugs:

Rugs made of silk or viscose are constructed from natural fibers, making them an extremely luxurious and refined material for rugs . Silk comes from the silkworm, and viscose comes from natural sources like wood.

Advantages:

• High Quality and Luster: Silk or viscose rugs offer high quality with a glossy and bright appearance. Silk is particularly known for its natural luster.
• Softness and Gentle Texture: Both silk and viscose have a very gentle texture that creates a feeling of softness and comfort when you walk on them.
• Elegance: Silk or viscose rugs offer an elegant and refined aesthetic to your space.

Disadvantages:

• Sensitivity to Light Exposure: Silk and viscose can fade or deteriorate if exposed to intense sunlight for long periods. 
• High Cost: Due to the high quality of the materials and the luxury they offer, silk or viscose rugs can be quite expensive.
• Potential Sensitivity: Silk is a very sensitive material that can be easily damaged by sharp objects, while viscose can be sensitive to water.

Heatset Rugs:

"Heatset" refers to a fiber treatment process in textiles, mainly in rugs , using high temperature. The heatset process improves the stability of the fabric, its resistance to abrasion, and its durability over time. During the heatset process, the fabric passes through a heated cylinder or other equipment controlled at specific temperatures. This thermal manipulation alters the properties of the fibers, improving the stability of the fabric and preventing abrasion and wear. Rugs that have undergone the heatset process tend to maintain their shape, color, and texture for a longer period. This makes them more durable for daily use and cleaning, and can help protect them from abrasion and wear caused by frequent use and heavy traffic.

Frise / Frize Rugs:

"Frize" or "frise" is a term used to describe a specific type of fabric often used in the construction of rugs. Frize is known for its texture, which includes soft, dense fibers that have been technically twisted, creating a curly pile. The characteristic of frize is that its fibers are twisted or twirled, creating a texture that resembles waves. This texture makes the frize rug very resistant to abrasion and daily stress, while also creating an appearance that can be very interesting and aesthetically attractive. Frize rugs typically have a dense texture and a soft feeling underfoot. They are also known for their ability to conceal signs of abrasion and wear, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. The frize material can be used in various designs and colors, offering a comfortable and durable solution for interior design.

Handtufted Rugs:

"Handtufted" refers to a method of rug construction where the fiber tufts are placed into the fabric by hand, instead of using machines. This creates handcrafted rugs with unique designs and textures, making them particularly well-crafted. The handtufting process usually includes the following steps:

1. Design Selection: The designer chooses the pattern to be created on the rug.
2. Tufting: Specialized artisans use a special needle to insert the fibers (usually wool or other materials) into the fabric. This creates the rug tufts.
3. Design Application: As the tufts are placed, the artisans follow the selected design and create the colors and textures of the rug. 
4. Compression: After the rug is finished, compression is applied to ensure that the tufts are securely fastened to the fabric.

Advantages of handtufted:

• Uniqueness: Handtufted rugs are created by hand, so each one is unique and can have a unique design and style.
• Quality: The handcrafted nature of the process means that artisans can select the best materials and ensure high quality construction.

Disadvantages of handtufted:

• Higher Cost: Due to the handcrafted nature of the construction, handtufted rugs can be more expensive compared to machine-made rugs.

Handloomed Rugs:

"Handloomed" refers to a method of textile construction, including rugs , where the fabric is created using a manual loom. This process allows artisans to create unique fabrics with diverse textures and designs.

Advantages:

• Handcrafted Aesthetic: Hand-loomed fabrics created with a loom have a distinct handcrafted feel and aesthetic that cannot be achieved with machines. 
• Customization: Artisans can add unique details, designs, and textures, making each fabric unique.

Disadvantages of handloomed:

• Higher Cost: Due to the handcrafted nature, hand-loomed fabrics can be more expensive compared to machine-made ones.

Shaggy Rugs:

The "shaggy" rug is a type of rug with a unique texture caused by the long, dense fibers that protrude from its surface. The shaggy rug is known for the soft feeling it offers, as well as the prominent and rich texture it creates. The shaggy rug is constructed using long fibers, such as polyester, wool, or other materials.

Advantages of the shaggy rug:

• Soft Texture: The long, dense fiber creates a soft feeling underfoot, making the shaggy rug very comfortable. 
• Decorative Texture: The prominent and rich texture of the shaggy rug adds decorative value to any space.

Disadvantages of the shaggy rug:

• Maintenance: Due to the long fiber, the shaggy rug can hold dust and dirt more easily. Its maintenance requires more care and more frequent cleaning. The shaggy rug is a refined choice for those looking for a rug that adds warmth, comfort, and a special aesthetic to their space.

Step 4: Choose the color and design of the rug:

Choosing the color and design of a rug can be a process based on personal preferences and decorating style. But generally, you can consider the following to arrive at the perfect choice.

• Combination with the Rest of the Space: Consider the colors already present in the area where the rug will be placed. Choose a color that complements or corresponds with the other colors in the room. If the walls, curtains, linens and decorations or furniture are bright colors, you might want a rug with a calmer color to create balance.
• Contrast or Consistency: If you want the rug to stand out, you can choose a color that contrasts with the other colors in the space. If you want to create a more consistent aesthetic, choose a color that is complementary or analogous to the other colors in the space.
• Size of the Space: For large spaces, you can choose larger rugs with more solid designs. For small spaces, it is preferable to choose smaller rugs with less dense patterns, as these can create the illusion of a larger space.
• Decoration Style: The decoration style of the room is also important. For example, if you have a modern decoration, you can choose a rug with minimalist or geometric designs. For more classic rooms, you can choose rugs with more traditional motifs.
• Personal Style: The most important thing is to choose something that reflects your personal style and aesthetic. Choose colors and designs that you like and that will make you feel comfortable and happy in your space.
• Season: The choice of rug color and design can also be made based on the time of year, adding a sense of the specific period's atmosphere to your space. For example, in spring you can choose rugs with bright colors and floral designs that highlight the rebirth of nature. While in winter you can choose rugs with warmer shades, such as brown, blue, or even burgundy or charcoal.

In conclusion, the choice of rug color and design is purely subjective and personal. Always choose something that you like and that fits your space and your style.

Step 5: Choose the rug's pile height:

The pile height in a rug refers to how long or short the material protruding from the surface of the rug is. It is the distance between the surface of the rug and the top of the pile, i.e., the length of the fibers that emerge from the fabric. Rugs with a high pile height have long fibers that create a light and soft feeling underfoot. These types of rugs usually offer a warmer and richer feel, but can be more difficult to maintain, as they can hold dust and dirt more easily. Rugs with a higher pile height are mainly chosen during the winter months.

Medium pile height rugs can be laid out all year round. They are the so-called 4-season rugs. Low pile height rugs have shorter fibers that protrude less from the surface. These types of rugs are usually easier to clean and better for high-traffic areas. Low pile height rugs are preferred during the summer months. Of course, the choice of pile height depends on your aesthetic preferences, the use of the rug in a specific space, and your maintenance needs.

Step 6: Choose the rug's density:

The rug's density is measured in knots per square meter. Knot density is an important factor in a rug's quality and durability. The higher the density, the more tightly the knots are placed, and the fabric becomes firmer and more durable. Rugs with high knot density tend to be more resistant to wear and daily use, but also heavier. It is important to note that knot density alone is not the sole indicator of quality. Other factors such as the type of knots, the rug material, the processing, and the construction also affect its quality and durability.

By reading this rug buying guide, you now have all the necessary knowledge to make the ideal rug choice for every room in your home! At designdrops you will find the highest quality rugs at the best prices on the market! Always remember to take care of your rug according to the manufacturer's instructions and protect it with specialized rug protectors when needed (e.g., a rolling office chair). To keep your rug looking like new for many years, consult the rug cleaning guide created for you by the experts at designdrops!

FAQs:

1. What size rug should I choose? 

The size of the rug you choose depends on the space you want to place it in: 

• Living Room: The rug should be larger than the sofa and extend 30-40 cm from the back of the sofa. You can also choose a rug that covers the area in front of the sofa and furniture, placing it under half the width of the sofa. For small living rooms, prefer a rug that does not go under the sofas and is 10-20 cm smaller than them.
• Dining Room: Add approximately 60-70 cm to each side of the table to cover the area the chairs will occupy when pulled out to sit. Choose a rectangular rug for a rectangular dining room and a round rug for a round dining room.
• Bedroom: It is advisable to choose a rug that covers the area under and around the bed and is 60-70 cm larger than it on each side. If you want a relaxation area in front of the bed, you can use various small mats and place furniture on a large rug.
• Kitchen: You must first measure the available space in your kitchen to understand how large or small a rug you can place. Also consider which area of the kitchen you want to cover - usually, the kitchen mat is placed in the area in front of the sink or stove to protect the floor from moisture and stains. If your kitchen is large and includes a table and chairs, you can combine the kitchen mat with a larger rug to be placed under the table and chairs, offering warmth and decoration to the space.
• Hallway: For narrow hallways, it is a good idea to choose a runner that can be cut and adapted to the length you need. If the hallway is wider, you can choose a small rectangular rug or a modern round rug that will give a new dimension to your space.

2. What are the types of rugs? 

• Classic Rugs: Traditional, with subtle designs and colors, inspired by older eras. Ideal for classic, traditional decoration, they add elegance and romance to the space.
• Modern Rugs: With contemporary, trendy designs and interesting shades that follow the trends of the time. Ideal for modern or minimal environments.
• Woven/Straw Rugs: Made from natural materials, with natural color and texture and a relaxed feel, ideal for seaside and modern spaces.
• Handmade Rugs: Unique and high-quality, made by specialized artisans, adding art and uniqueness to the space.
• Summer Rugs: Suitable for summer, light and cool, with bright colors and designs that respond to the atmosphere of the season, giving a sense of renewal and light decoration.
• Runners: Long, narrow rugs for hallways, offering comfortable footing and aesthetics.
• Bedroom Sets: A combination of oblong rugs around the bed, offering functionality and aesthetics.
• Kitchen Mats: Small rugs protect the floor in front of the sink and kitchen counter and offer comfort and safety in the kitchen.
• Children's/Teen Rugs: Rugs with cheerful designs and friendly colors for children's and teenagers' rooms. They offer comfort and a playful mood in the children's room.
• Entrance Mats: Small mats for the entrance of your home or business that protect against dirt and moisture, while offering style and safety.

3. What materials are rugs usually made of? 

Rugs can be made from various materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

• Cotton: Cotton rugs are environmentally friendly, light, cool, and easy to clean, but they are less resistant to wear and require more frequent maintenance. 
• Wool: Wool rugs are durable and soft, but more difficult to clean and more expensive.
• Polypropylene: Polypropylene rugs are economical, easy to clean, and durable, but they do not offer the same feeling of warmth and softness.
• Polyester: Polyester rugs are resistant to wear and time, while being economical and offering many designs.
• Leather: Leather rugs are luxurious, resistant to wear, but more difficult to care for and naturally more expensive.
• Straw/Matting: Matting rugs are natural, often handmade rugs, that impart natural beauty and warmth to the space. They are biodegradable but sensitive to light exposure, and have limited durability compared to other materials.
• Jute – Seagrass – Bamboo – Coconut – Hemp: Rugs made from plant materials offer natural beauty and are sustainable materials. They are good for allergy sufferers but sensitive to moisture and sunlight.
• Nylon – Acrylic: Acrylic or nylon rugs are synthetic, resistant to wear, easier to care for, and offer a variety of designs and colors. They are economical but can feel colder and may cause static electricity.
• Chenille: Chenille rugs have a soft and fluffy texture resembling velvet. They are luxurious and offer a variety of designs and colors, suitable for various spaces. However, they require careful care and daily cleaning to maintain their appearance.
• Silk & Viscose: Silk and viscose rugs offer high quality, luster, and a soft texture, making them luxurious and elegant. However, they are sensitive to light and can have a higher cost.
• Heatset: "Heatset" refers to the treatment of fibers in rugs with high temperature for increased durability.
• Frize: "Frize" is a type of fabric with a curly texture.
• Handtufted: "Handtufted" refers to handmade rugs with unique designs.
• Handloomed: "Handloomed" refers to the handmade construction of rugs via a loom. 
• Shaggy: Shaggy rugs are rugs with long, soft fibers that protrude, offering a soft texture and decorative value.

4. What color and design rug should I choose? 

• The choice of rug color and design is subjective and can be influenced by your personal style and decoration . It also needs to be combined with the existing space or the season. 

5. What is the pile height of the rug and which one should I choose?

• The pile height in a rug refers to how high the fibers emerging from its base are. Rugs with a high pile height are soft and warm, but more difficult to maintain. Medium pile height rugs are suitable for all seasons, while low pile height rugs are easier to clean and suitable for high-traffic areas. Your choice may also be influenced by the season. 

6. What is the density of the rug and which one should I choose? 

• The density of the rug is measured in knots per square meter and affects its quality, texture, and durability. High density means a more durable, fluffy, and heavier rug. Rugs with high density are suitable for high-traffic areas, as they are more durable, while rugs with lower density are suitable for all seasons of the year and for those seeking ease of cleaning. 

At designdrops you will find buying guides for rugs and mats and cleaning guides for rugs and floors, which contain valuable tips for choosing the ideal rugs and keeping them like new!