Rugs are one of the most transformative pieces you can bring into a room, but finding the right one can feel overwhelming. With an endless variety of sizes, colors, materials, and price points, it's easy to get stuck in decision paralysis. But don’t worry, this guide will help you avoid the most common pitfalls and choose a rug that works beautifully in your space.
Whether you're dressing up a cozy bedroom, defining a living space, or adding warmth to a hallway, steering clear of these three mistakes will help you choose a rug that complements your home and stands the test of time.
Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Size
One of the most common rug mistakes I see is going too small. A rug that’s too petite can make a room feel disconnected or unfinished. Size matters – and getting it right can anchor your furniture, frame the space, and add an intentional, layered feel.
Here’s a quick guide for choosing the right size rug in each room:
Living Room: Ideally, all the front legs of your seating should sit on the rug. In larger spaces, the entire furniture arrangement can fit within the rug’s borders. A good rule of thumb: the rug should extend at least 6-8 inches beyond the sides of your sofa.
Dining Room: Choose a rug that extends at least 24 inches beyond the edge of your table on all sides. This allows chairs to stay fully on the rug, even when pulled out.
Bedroom: Either use a large rug that extends at least two feet beyond the sides and foot of the bed or opt for two smaller rugs placed on either side. It’s okay if your nightstands do not sit on the rug – it’s most important to have a soft rug underfoot when you stand up out of bed.
Runners (Hallway/Stairs): Go for a runner that leaves a few inches of exposed floor on each side. It should feel centered and not too short – longer runners can elongate the space beautifully.
Pro tip: Use painter's tape to outline the size of the rug in relation to the room and your furniture to visualize it before committing to the purchase!
Mistake #2: Overlooking Material
Historically, rugs were woven from natural materials like wool, cotton, and silk – each valued for their durability, softness, or lush texture. With the advent of modern manufacturing, synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and polypropylene entered the scene, offering affordability and increased stain resistance.
Each material has its pros and cons depending on your lifestyle, budget, and space. Here’s a breakdown:
Upkeep Tip: Vacuum regularly, spot-clean spills immediately, and always follow care instructions. High-quality rugs, especially natural ones, can be professionally cleaned to maintain their look for decades. Also, put a 6-month recurring event in your calendar to prompt you to rotate your rug – you want to make sure the wear pattern develops evenly over time.
Mistake #3: Not Investing in Quality
Rug pricing can range from $100 to several thousand, and it’s easy to be tempted by a low-cost option, especially when shopping online. But here’s the truth: rugs are a foundational piece in your home, and quality matters.
Inexpensive rugs often wear out quickly, shed excessively, or curl at the edges. They may look fine for a year or two, but they’re unlikely to stand up to real life – kids, pets, dinner parties, and daily traffic.
Investing in a higher-quality rug often means better craftsmanship, natural materials, and longer wear. Some well-made rugs can last generations with proper care. Plus, choosing a long-lasting piece is a more sustainable decision – less waste and fewer replacements over time.
That said, I know not everyone can (or wants to) spend thousands on a rug. And that’s okay! There are beautiful, mid-range options that balance quality and budget. The key is knowing what you’re buying and where to compromise.
Put Simply
The right rug ties your space together, adds warmth, and speaks to your style. Avoiding common missteps like buying the wrong size, ignoring material differences, or opting for throwaway quality will save you money and frustration in the long run.
Still unsure which rug is right for your space? I would love to help you choose the perfect piece that fits your style, needs, and budget.
Let’s bring your space to life – one rug at a time.