Our best overall pick, the Bungalow Rose Oriental Handmade Tufted Area Rug, is made of durable tufted wool, has a cotton backing, and is available in 10 size options. Here are the best area rugs you can buy now. For a highly populated room in your house like the living room, look for a durable material like wool and choose a darker color that has some pattern to it. Wool rugs, like the Samaniego Oriental Hand-Tufted Area Rug, are a great choice because they look high-end, but are long-lasting—especially if you use a rug pad underneath to help absorb some of the shocks that come along with constant foot traffic. They’re also easy to clean. When it comes to color, opt for something in the middle—like this dark blue option—that has speckles or a pattern to help conceal minor debris. Rugs that are too dark have a tendency to show crumbs and other small particles, and they also fade much faster. Price at time of publish: $1,105 The small chevron pattern adds just enough interest without detracting from the rest of your decor. The pattern also helps mask small debris and minor stains between cleanings. Though this area rug is only meant for indoor use, it’ll look great in nearly any room, from a home office or bedroom to the kitchen. A rug pad is recommended so it won’t slip around. Price at time of publish: $64 Price at time of publish: $170 The 100 percent natural wool fiber is soft and comfortable, but it’s also hypoallergenic—perfect for baby’s sensitive skin. Wool is also very durable and easy to clean, thanks to its low-pile weave. For stubborn spills and stains, it can be spot-treated or steam-cleaned. There are two different sizes to choose from and five different color options, ranging from pale pink to blue. Price at time of publish: $282 for Light Gray, 4’x6’ This geometric, handwoven rug is fade, stain, weather, and mildew-resistant. Plus, the pattern helps mask any stubborn spots that may linger after cleaning. Use it in your kitchen, dining room, entryway, patio, covered porch, or three-season room. Customers give this rug high marks for its affordable price, soft texture (even on bare feet), and durability. Price at time of publish: $590 for 5’x8’ This low-pile rug is made of 100 percent polypropylene (a synthetic material that’s fairly inexpensive and stain-resistant), so it will work well in a dining room or living room, where you’re getting a lot of foot traffic. The pattern is intricate and colorful, which makes the rug look must more expensive than it actually is. The low-pile is soft and easy to vacuum. Major stains should be handled by professional cleaners. Price at time of publish: $120 for Blue Price at time of publish: $454 This rug is an excellent choice for pet owners because it’s made of synthetic material that doesn’t absorb stains and odors (this is also important if the rug is going in a high traffic area). The rug’s lower profile makes it easy to vacuum and spot clean, too. Though it’s pricier than many of the other options on this list, it’s well worth the investment if you own pets.
Fibers
The type of fibers used to make an area rug will have a big impact on the durability, softness, and stain resistance of the rug. You may spot natural materials like cotton, jute, or wool (likely to be the most expensive). However, many synthetic fibers are being used to make area rugs, including polypropylene, nylon, and polyester. These fibers offer advantages in terms of durability and stain resistance and often are more cost-effective than some natural fibers.
Size and Shape
One of the most important things to consider when shopping for an area rug is the size. If you go too small, the rug will seem out of proportion with the room and won’t suit its purpose. However, a rug that is too large can overwhelm the space—or may not fit at all. Also, remember that area rugs aren’t always rectangular. Oval, round, and square area rugs can make a nice addition to your room as well.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Brigitt Earley, a freelance writer who has spent the last 10-plus years researching the best home goods for various digital publications, including The Spruce and Good Housekeeping. Brigitt owns a 100-year-old home and has ample experience selecting soft home goods and rugs to furnish spaces both large and small. If your area rug is stained, you’ll want to spot clean it immediately. To spot clean, try using a solution of one teaspoon dishwashing liquid with two cups of warm water. When cleaning the entire rug, you can use carpet shampoo on most area rugs, but you’ll want to check and see if you need to dilute it first before using. You can apply the shampoo to your rug with a sponge mop or soft-bristled brush and then rinse it thoroughly.
