Finding the Perfect Rug for Your Space
By McPhails Furniture August 12th, 2025
How to Choose the Perfect Rug for Your Home: A Complete Guide
Rugs have the unique ability to transform a room. They add warmth, texture, and a pop of colour, tying the entire space together. Whether you’re furnishing a new home or refreshing an existing room, choosing the right rug can be a bit daunting with so many styles, sizes, and materials to consider. But don’t worry! We’ll break down the steps to help you choose the perfect rug for your home, based on your style, needs, and budget.
Step 1: Consider Your Room’s Function
The first thing to think about when choosing a rug is the function of the room. Different areas in your home will have different requirements, and choosing a rug that complements the room's purpose is key.
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Living Room: In the living room, rugs often serve as both a design element and a functional piece. A large rug can anchor the space and create a cosy atmosphere. If you have a lot of foot traffic, consider durable materials like wool or synthetic fibres, which hold up well over time.
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Dining Room: Dining room rugs need to be large enough to accommodate the table and chairs, with enough space to pull out the chairs comfortably. Consider low-pile rugs that can stand up to spills and stains.
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Bedroom: In the bedroom, rugs add warmth and softness underfoot, particularly in the area near the bed. A rug that extends beyond the sides and foot of the bed creates a welcoming, finished look.
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Entryway and Hallways: These high-traffic areas need rugs that are easy to clean and durable. A runner rug works great for hallways, while an entryway rug should be sturdy enough to withstand dirt and moisture.
Step 2: Choose the Right Size Rug
Choosing the right rug size is crucial to achieving a balanced look in any room. Too small, and it can make the space feel disjointed; too large, and it can overwhelm the furniture. Here’s how to determine the ideal rug size for different rooms:
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Living Room:
A common rule of thumb is to ensure that all the furniture in the seating area is placed on the rug, or at least the front legs of the furniture. For larger spaces, choose a rug that extends beyond the furniture, leaving 15-30cm minimum of bare floor around the perimeter. -
Dining Room:
Choose a rug that is large enough to fit the table and chairs, even when the chairs are pulled out. Ideally, the rug should extend 50-60cm beyond the edges of the table on all sides. -
Bedroom:
For bedrooms, a rug should fit the area around the bed. A popular approach is to place a rug beneath the bed, ensuring it extends out from all sides of the bed by 60-80cm.
Step 3: Pick a Colour and Pattern
The colour and pattern of your rug can set the tone for the entire room. When choosing the right rug, consider the overall colour scheme and décor style of the space:
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Neutral Rugs:
Neutral-coloured rugs (beige, grey, ivory, taupe) are versatile and work well in most rooms. They can complement a wide range of furniture styles and colours, making them a safe choice for any space. -
Bold, Colourful Rugs:
If you want your rug to be the focal point of the room, consider a bold colour or pattern. Jewel tones like deep blues, emerald greens, and rich reds add warmth and character, while graphic patterns can create a modern, dynamic look. -
Traditional Patterns:
If you prefer classic styles, traditional patterns like Persian or Oriental rugs can add a sense of history and elegance to a room. These patterns work well in formal spaces like living rooms or dining rooms. -
Contemporary Patterns:
For a modern or minimalistic look, consider rugs with geometric patterns, abstract designs, or solid colours. These can help balance out busier furniture or décor.
Step 5: Set a Budget
Rugs can range from budget-friendly to highly expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you begin shopping. Keep in mind that while high-end rugs made from natural materials like wool or silk can be more expensive, they tend to last longer and require less frequent replacement. Synthetic rugs are more affordable upfront but may not hold up as well over time.
Step 6: Aftercare
To keep your rug looking fresh and vibrant, regular care is essential. Vacuum it frequently to prevent dirt from settling deep into the fibres, and rotate it every few months to ensure even wear. For spills, act quickly by blotting (not rubbing) with a clean, dry cloth. For added protection and longevity, use the Guardsman Rug Care Kit, which is specially formulated to help clean and safeguard your rug’s fibres against everyday accidents and stains. Plus, it comes with a 5-year accidental damage warranty for your rug, giving you extra peace of mind. Following these simple steps will help maintain your rug’s beauty and comfort for years to come.
Choosing the perfect rug for your home can be a fun and rewarding process when you know what to look for. By considering the room’s function, the right size, material, colour, and texture, you’ll be able to select a rug that not only enhances the look of your space but also meets your practical needs. Whether you’re after a cosy wool rug for your living room or a vibrant statement piece for your entryway, the right rug can truly elevate the aesthetic and comfort of your home. Happy rug shopping!
View our selection of floor rugs here: https://mcphails.com.au/collections/rugs
