Area Rug FAQ’s

Q. - What area rug size do I need for my room?

The size of your area rug should complement the size of the room, and will be influenced by how the rug will be used. 5’ x 8’ area rugs look great beneath most coffee tables, and 8’ x 10’ area rugs generally work well in dining rooms. To determine the ideal rug size for dining rooms with oversized tables, measure the table and add four feet to the length and width. If you want your area rug to cover an entire room, allow for 12 – 18 inches of exposed floor to frame the room.

Q. - Why do I need a rug pad?

Rug pads help keep area rugs from sliding and wrinkling, and also absorb impact and muffle sound. As an added benefit, rug pads help protect the flooring beneath, and reduce wear and tear on the rug. Also, having a pad beneath your rug will make vacuuming easier.

Q. - How do I take care of my area rug?

Reducing the amount of dirt trapped in the fibers is the key to keeping your area rugs looking great. Depending on the fiber, construction, and style of your rug, regular vacuuming may the only necessary maintenance. Fringed edges should be tucked under before vacuuming to prevent damage. For some rug styles, you may need to turn your vacuum cleaner’s beater bar off, or use the attachment hose only.

Q. - Can I use different area rugs in the same room?

Yes! As long as the colors complement one another, it’s perfectly acceptable to display different patterned rugs within the same room. Using coordinating rugs within a single space can help divide a larger room into distinct, smaller areas, or can create contrast for added visual interest. If you prefer a more cohesive feel, opt for identically patterned and colored rugs in different sizes.

Q. - Which area rug fiber is best: natural or synthetic?

Natural and synthetic fibers each possess their own unique characteristics and challenges. Choose your area rug fiber based on the intended function of your rug. If you’re selecting a rug for a kid’s room or high-traffic area, synthetic fibers provide a practical, stain-resistant option. If you’re seeking a warm, comfortable rug for lounging or playing, natural fibers like wool or cotton would be excellent choices.

Q. - How do I store my area rug?

Thoroughly clean your rug, then roll (design-size in) and wrap in heavy-duty plastic with moth flakes and seal with tape. Replace the moth flakes every few months. Never fold an area rug, as creases may form.

Q. - How long will my area rug last?

Factors such as construction method, material, and type of usage determine its longevity. Regular vacuuming will keep your rug looking newer longer, and rotating it 180 degrees each year will ensure a uniform wear of the fibers. High-quality area rugs, such as wool rugs and hand knotted rugs, can have a long lifespan of 20-50 years or more.

Q. - What’s the difference between a handmade rug and a machine-made rug?

Handmade rugs are either hand knotted, hand tufted, or hand hooked, while machine-made rugs are constructed by machinery. Handmade rugs are more labor-intensive than machine-made rugs, and are generally more expensive.

Q. - Should I have my area rug professionally cleaned?

To keep your rugs looking great, have them professionally cleaned every 2 – 5 years. Not all area rug fibers will withstand steam cleaning; some may need to be professionally cleaned using other methods. Commercial rug cleaners use special equipment to remove dirt and dust from the area rug’s foundation, and to thoroughly dry the rug to prevent odors and mildew. Always take your rug to an experienced, knowledgeable rug cleaning professional.

Q. - How should I handle spills on my area rug?

When a spill happens, take quick action. While many area rugs are treated for stain resistance to prevent quick absorption of fluids, and some fibers like wool naturally shed liquid, you’ll still need to act quickly before the spill penetrates the rug’s fibers. Most liquids can be blotted with a paper towel. Be sure to use plain white paper towels, and work with a blotting motion rather than rubbing or scrubbing, which could distort the pile. If necessary, follow blotting with a cleaning solution designed for your rug’s fiber content.

Q. - Why is my area rug fading?

Direct contact with sunlight can cause an area rug’s color to become more muted over time, with natural dyes tending to fade more readily than synthetic versions. To prevent fading, keep drapes or blinds closed, or install UV protection on windows. If direct sunlight is unavoidable, rotate your area rug frequently for more uniform fading.