Common Rug Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Rugs play a crucial role in home decor, adding warmth, comfort, and style to any space. However, choosing the wrong rug or placing it incorrectly can negatively impact the look and feel of your room. Whether you're a fan of shaggy rugs for their plush texture or prefer more traditional designs, avoiding common rug mistakes can ensure your home looks stylish and cohesive.

Common Rug Mistakes

In this blog, we’ll explore the most frequent rug mistakes people make and provide practical tips on how to avoid them. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose and place rugs to enhance your home’s aesthetic and functionality.

Choosing the Wrong Rug Size

One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing a rug that’s either too small or too large for their space. The size of your rug can dramatically affect the proportions of the room and how well the furniture fits within it.

How to Avoid It:

• Measure the Space: Before purchasing a rug, measure the room and consider how much of the floor you want to cover. For example, in a living room, the rug should be large enough to fit under the front legs of all major pieces of furniture like sofas and chairs.
• Living Room Tip: A good rule of thumb is to choose a rug that leaves 12-18 inches of floor visible around the perimeter of the room.
• Dining Room Tip: Ensure the rug is big enough that when chairs are pulled out from the dining table, they still sit on the rug.
• Bedroom Tip: In bedrooms, a large rug that extends beneath the bed and leaves some rug exposed on all sides can make the space feel more luxurious.

If you're looking to add extra softness and comfort underfoot, consider our Premium Shaggy Rugs which comes in various sizes to suit any room.

Ignoring Rug Functionality

Many homeowners focus solely on the appearance of a rug without considering its functionality. While looks are important, rugs need to meet the practical demands of your home, especially in high-traffic areas.

How to Avoid It:

• Consider Foot Traffic: For high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways, choose durable materials like wool or synthetic fibers. Avoid delicate materials like silk, which may wear down quickly.
• Use Rug Pads: Always use a rug pad to prevent the rug from slipping, especially in areas like the kitchen or bathroom where moisture can make floors slippery.
• Stain Resistance: In dining rooms or play areas, look for stain-resistant rugs made from materials like polypropylene. These are easier to clean and maintain.

For spaces where you want both comfort and durability, Our Modern Rugs offer a great balance, providing plush comfort without sacrificing functionality.

Not Considering Room Shape and Rug Shape

Choosing a rug that doesn’t match the shape of the room or furniture layout can throw off the balance of the space. For example, a round rug in a long, narrow room may not work as well as a rectangular one.

How to Avoid It:

• Match Rug to Room Shape: Consider the shape of the room when choosing your rug. Rectangular rugs work well in long spaces like hallways, while round rugs are ideal for smaller, intimate spaces like reading nooks.
• Furniture Layout: Match the rug’s shape to your furniture arrangement. For example, a round rug works well under a round dining table, while a rectangular rug is better suited for sectionals or long sofas.

For creative layouts or open-concept spaces, layering different rug shapes, including shaggy rugs, can add dimension and interest to the room.

Learn How to Layer Shaggy Rugs

Misplacing Rugs Under Furniture

Improperly placing rugs under furniture is another common mistake that can make your room feel disjointed. If the rug is too small or awkwardly positioned, it can create a sense of imbalance.

How to Avoid It:

• Living Room: Ensure that at least the front legs of all the main furniture pieces (sofas, chairs, coffee tables) rest on the rug. This creates a cohesive arrangement.
• Dining Room: In dining areas, the entire dining table and chairs should sit comfortably on the rug, even when the chairs are pulled out.
• Bedroom: In a bedroom, the rug should extend at least 2-3 feet beyond the sides of the bed to create a soft landing when you step out.

If you’re aiming for a cozy, comfortable look, place a shaggy rug under key furniture pieces like beds or sofas to enhance warmth and style.

Overlooking Rug Care and Maintenance

Many people purchase a rug without thinking about how to care for it, which can lead to wear and tear over time. Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your rug.

How to Avoid It:

• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum your rugs frequently, especially in high-traffic areas, to remove dirt and debris. For shaggy rugs, use a vacuum with an adjustable setting to avoid damaging the pile.
• Spot Clean Stains Immediately: When spills occur, blot them immediately with a clean cloth. For tougher stains, use a rug cleaner recommended for the material.
• Rotate the Rug: To ensure even wear, rotate your rug every few months, especially in rooms with high foot traffic.

By keeping up with regular care, you’ll preserve the beauty and longevity of your rug, learn how to Clean Rugs at Home.

Not Using Rug Pads

Skipping a rug pad is a common mistake that can lead to slipping hazards and reduce the lifespan of your rug. Rug pads not only provide extra cushioning but also prevent the rug from bunching or sliding.

How to Avoid It:

• Non-Slip Rug Pads: Always place a non-slip rug pad under your rug, especially on hard surfaces like wood or tile. This will prevent the rug from moving and protect your floors from scratches.
• Extend Rug Life: A rug pad can also reduce wear and tear by adding a layer of protection and cushioning beneath the rug, keeping it in good condition for longer.

When using plush rugs like shaggy rugs, a good rug pad will ensure they stay in place and remain comfortable for years to come.

Using Rugs with Mismatched Styles

Another common mistake is choosing a rug that doesn’t complement the existing decor. If the rug’s color, pattern, or style clashes with the furniture and decor, it can throw off the balance of the room.

How to Avoid It:

• Color Coordination: Choose a rug that complements the color scheme of your room. If you have neutral walls and furniture, a bold-patterned or colorful rug can act as a focal point. For rooms with a lot of colors, a neutral rug will create balance.
• Texture Matters: Consider the texture of the rug in relation to the other fabrics in the room. For instance, a shaggy rug works beautifully in minimalist or modern rooms where the soft texture contrasts with sleek furniture.

To maintain a cohesive style, select a rug that harmonizes with your room’s overall aesthetic.

Conclusion

Rugs are an essential element of home decor, but selecting and placing them correctly can make all the difference in the comfort and style of your space. By avoiding common mistakes like choosing the wrong size, ignoring functionality, or misplacing furniture, you can ensure that your rugs enhance your home’s aesthetic and practicality.

Whether you’re decorating a living room, bedroom, or dining area, investing in high-quality shaggy rugs or other styles can elevate your space. For more inspiration and to explore our wide selection of rugs, visit Shaggy Rugs LTD and browse through our latest rug collection today.