Which Area Rugs Are Best for Your Flooring?

Shopping for area or accent rugs can be really fun—but with so many options on the market, it can be confusing to know where to begin. From the size and dimensions of the area rug you need, to the style you’re envisioning, to—perhaps most important—keeping your original floors protected, there are many things to keep in mind when searching for the perfect area rug for your home.

What size should my area rug be?

Before you determine the style of your area or throw rug, you’ll want to pick the size. This will depend on the type of room it’ll go in, and what the function of the rug will be. For instance, is it a large living room? Or a narrow hallway that’s in need of a complementary runner? If you’re adding an area rug to a dining room, you’ll want it to be big enough to include a table and chairs, even when the chairs are pushed back. Looking for an area rug for your hardwood floor in the living room? Ideally, the area rug you choose will allow all the furniture in your living room to fit on top. And if you’re thinking you’d love an area rug in your bedroom, look for an accent rug that frames the bed. If you have a queen, explore rugs that are 8'x10'. If your bed is a king, look for rugs that are 9'x12'.

What if the rug I love is small?

Don’t sweat it if you’re area rug turns out to be too small –you can always layer. This can help you budget-wise, too, as large area rugs can be pricey. Consider laying down a larger, less expensive area rug in your living room, for example. Then you can layer the smaller area rug you love on top, underneath the coffee table, for instance. Or consider putting that smaller 5'x7' area rug you adore in an unexpected place, like the kitchen or the reading nook.

Can I put an area rug on a carpet?

Area rugs are not just for hardwood. There’s no reason not to explore putting area rugs on a carpet. Especially if you’re looking to mix things up a bit, a few smaller area rugs placed down on your existing carpet can be really pleasing to the eye.

What style of area rug will work in my home?

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the color and shape of your area rug. As you browse online or in store, think about the overall décor theme or vibe you’re going for: something modern, rustic, boho, or more traditional? Are you looking for a solid area rug in a blue or gray color, or a multi-patterned throw rug? Shape-wise, think of where in the room your new area rug is going. If you’re looking to put an accent rug underneath a circular table, you’ll want to look for a circular-shaped rug. But an accent rug for underneath your rectangular couch? In that case, you’ll want to look for a rectangular-shaped rug that mimics the furniture it’s underneath.

Are rug pads necessary?

The simple answer is, yes! Rug pads are key to protecting your original flooring, whether it be hardwood flooring or carpet, and they also help prevent slipping. Aesthetically, they are important, too, as they’ll protect your area rug from the dreaded ripple effect. You don’t want your rug pad to show, so aim for one that’s a couple inches smaller than your area rug on all sides.

Need More Help?

Whether you’re shopping for a new area rug to adorn your new beautiful hardwood floors, or looking to add a throw rug to the existing home décor in your bedroom, the experts at your local Flooring Canada are always here to help. They can offer great advice on size, style, and placement, helping you to seamlessly add gorgeous and functional area rugs to your already well-loved floors.

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