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Types and Material of Rugs

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published August 29, 2024

Choosing the right rug for your home doesn’t have to be confusing. Get familiar with different types of rugs, materials and styles in this guide to make shopping for your rug easy and fun.

Types of Rugs

Before selecting a rug for your home, here are the main types of rugs you should know about based on size and aesthetic.

1) Area Rug

Area rugs are the most common type available. Look for different sizes and shapes like rectangular area rugs, square area rugs, oval area rugs, round area rugs, etc. An area rug should be placed in a spacious area in a room to define spaces, add warmth and enhance decor.

  • Living Room Rugs: Typically large area rugs which can be placed under the coffee table. These types of area rugs anchor the seating arrangement.
  • Dining Room Rugs: Area rugs can be placed under the dining table. It should be large enough to accommodate all chairs when pulled out.
  • Bedroom Rugs: Placed beside the bed, they provide a soft surface for your feet.

2) Runner Rug

Runner rugs are long, narrow rugs typically used in hallways, entryways and along staircases. Here are some practical and aesthetic features:

Practicality

  • Protection: Runner rugs shield your floors from scratches, scuffs and dirt, especially in high-traffic areas.
  • Sound absorption: They help reduce noise levels, making your home quieter and more comfortable.
  • Non slip Grip: Some runner rugs have non-slip backing, enhancing safety in areas like staircases.

Aesthetics:

  • Defining spaces: Runners can visually divide a long hallway or create a defined pathway in an open space.
  • Adding color and texture: Depending on the pattern or colour, they highlights areas which are often overlooked areas.
  • Complementary decor: Runners can complement the overall style of your home, from modern to traditional.

3) Throw Rug

Throw rugs are small, accent rugs which add color, texture, or pattern to a specific area. Here are a few places to put them:

  • Bedroom: Place them at the foot of the bed, beside a dressing table, or in front of a closet.
  • Living room: Define seating areas by placing them under a coffee table or beside a sofa.
  • Kitchen: Place the throw rug in front of the sink or countertops to add some charm to your kitchen.

Tip

Layer throw rugs over larger rugs for added texture and depth. Try out different shapes, sizes and styles of rugs to create a unique look.

Rug Materials

Learn about the material of a rug as it influences the feel, durability and aesthetic. Here's a breakdown of some common types of rug materials:

Synthetic Fibers

  • Polypropylene: Known for its durability and resistance to stains, polypropylene rugs are budget-friendly options. They're often chosen for high-traffic areas for protection against damage.
  • Synthetic: This includes materials like nylon and polyester. Synthetic rugs are soft, durable and easy to clean.

Natural Fibers

  • Wool: Wool rugs is the most popular option because the material is soft and warm. It’s natural resilience and aesthetic make it a classic choice. They have excellent insulation so they are the preferred choice for cold areas.
  • Cotton rugs: Often used in flatweave rugs, cotton rugs are soft, breathable and hypoallergenic. Cotton rugs are recommended for bedrooms and living rooms.
  • Jute rugs: With a natural, earthy look, jute rugs are durable and eco-friendly. They add a rustic charm to any space.
  • Seagrass rugs: Similar to jute, seagrass rugs offer a natural, textured appearance. They are durable and perfect coastal-inspired decor.
  • Sisal rugs: Sisal is known for its exceptional strength. These rugs are durable and often used well-worn areas. They have a natural, earthy look.

Good to Know

Some rugs are made from a blend of materials, combining the best qualities of different fibers.

Styles of Rugs

Modern Rugs

Modern rugs are characterized by clean lines, geometric patterns and a minimalist aesthetic. They feature bold colors or neutral tones. They are available in different materials including wool, synthetic fibers and natural fibers like jute.

Transitional Rugs

Transitional rugs are a balance between traditional and modern styles. They combine classic elements with contemporary designs, which make for rugs that have a timeless appeal. They often feature muted colors, intricate patterns and a mix of materials.

Traditional Rugs

Identify traditional rugs by looking for intricate patterns, rich colors and a sense of history. They often feature floral motifs, medallions and borders. Materials like wool and silk are commonly used in traditional rugs, creating a luxurious and elegant look.

Casual Rugs

Casual rugs are designed for comfort and a minimalistic look. They often feature relaxed patterns, natural colors and soft textures. Materials like cotton, jute and synthetic fibers are used to make casual rugs.

Types of Rugs According to Weaving Techniques

Loomed Rugs

Loomed rugs are produced on a loom. This is a weaving tool with a frame that holds the warp threads (lengthwise) and weft threads (crosswise). The weaving process interlaces these threads to create the rug's structure. Loomed rugs can be either hand-loomed or machine-loomed. Hand-loomed rugs are more intricate and expensive.

Woven Rugs

Similar to loomed rugs, woven rugs are made by interlacing warp and weft threads. But, woven rugs often have a flat surface. This technique makes the rug more durable and gives it a distinctive texture.

Tufted Rugs

Tufted rugs are made by inserting yarn loops into a backing material using a tufting gun. The loops can be cut to create a pile or left uncut for a looped texture. These rugs are a blend of modern and rustic designs with a soft texture.

Braided Rugs

Braided rugs are handcrafted by braiding strips of fabric together to form a flat, circular rug. They have a rustic charm and are often made from recycled materials. Braided rugs are typically small to medium-sized.

Frieze Rugs

Frieze rugs have a thick, twisted layer that creates a plush and luxurious texture. The fibers are heat-set to create a tight curl, which helps to hide dirt and stains. Frieze rugs are often made from synthetic materials.

Knotted Rugs

Hand-knotted rugs are considered the pinnacle of rug craftsmanship. Skilled artisans tie individual knots by hand, creating intricate patterns and designs. This is a labor-intensive process but it provides exceptional durability and beauty.

Hooked Rugs

Hooked rugs are made by pushing yarn or fabric loops through a backing material using a hook. They often have a folk art aesthetic.

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