What Are Some Tips for Buying an Area Rug?

Focal Point Decisions

• Should your rug highlight a focal point or should it be one? If you have new, beautiful floors that you want to showcase, don't pick an area rug that will upstage those floors, says Russell. Choose a neutral color or tone-on-tone in a simple, contemporary style. The same holds true if the rug is to be placed in front of a focal point like a fireplace. If your floors are not in the greatest shape, choose a bold pattern like a tapestry or abstract in rich colors, so the rug becomes the focal point.

Size and Shape

• Ideally an area rug should leave a 3-foot frame of exposed floor. Under a dining room table, leave 24 to 30 inches of rug measured from the edges of your table to allow room to move chairs in and out. Plan for 3 feet of rug on either side of a bed. Try marking out the area in your room with painter's tape, large sheets of paper from a roll or a folded bed sheet, and then take your measurements. If your room is filled with sharp lines from furniture, window framing or other architectural details, consider an oval or round rug to soften up the space.

Color

• Busy patterns like Persian, brocade or vintage floral don't show dirt as much as lighter, neutral rugs. Consider your furniture's fabrics as well, as too much pattern can be overwhelming. Bring fabric swatches or chair cushions with you when shopping.

Materials

• Like anything else, you get what you pay for, says Wright. More expensive rugs have a higher thread count per inch, which makes them more durable. Looped rugs, often called Berber, are more durable than cut pile, which may look more comfortable but can fray, crush down and show more dirt over time. A good compromise might be a mix of both cut and loop pile. Shag may look cushy but needs frequent vacuuming and can be a magnet for pet hair.