If you are new to rug shopping, it can be overwhelming to see all the options available and the high prices. The three most important considerations when choosing a rug are style, place, and budget. You should also consider how easy it is to clean a rug and how long you plan to keep it.

When shopping for a rug to buy, the first thing you should consider is its size. Commercial rugs can be larger than indoor rugs so ensure you have enough space for them to move around. Also, consider the style and shape of the rug. Some rugs can easily be stored and rolled up, while others can be displayed on the floor.

Before you choose the style of your rug, it is important to be familiar with the various types of rug materials. These are the most commonly used rug materials.

Wool Rugs

Wool is a natural fiber rug made from wool. It can be hand woven, hand-tufted, hand-knotted, or hand-loomed. Although machine-loomed wool rugs are available, these are often made from synthetic fibers. True wool rugs are more costly because of the work involved in designing and building them. However, they are very high quality. Wool rugs are a great heirloom investment as they can often be passed from generation to generation. This type of rug is great for spaces with high traffic such as the living area, bedroom, and entryway.

Cotton Rugs

Cotton is a playful and inexpensive rug material that can be used to replace expensive rugs like silk or wool. Toombs warns that cotton can fade quickly and won’t resist stains. Therefore, you shouldn’t expect your cotton area rug to last for decades. Cotton rugs work best in casual settings and can be easily changed according to mood or season.

Bamboo And Jute Rugs

Bamboo and jute are two natural rug materials that add a beach vibe to indoor spaces. They are an excellent choice for rooms with texture. Their low price makes them an attractive option, especially in areas that require a large rug.

Be careful where you place these rugs. Some of them may show watermarks or be difficult to clean. If you plan to use a bamboo or jute rug outdoors, ensure it is weather-resistant.

Faux Fur And Faux Hide Rugs

A faux hide or faux fur rug is an alternative to real animal hide if budget constraints are tight. Faux fur rugs often contain acrylic or synthetic blends and are often power-woven.

The downside is that these rugs are more prone to shredding, especially when new. Also, they are not as easy to clean.

Polyester And Microfiber Rugs

Another type is microfiber rugs. These are made either from 100 percent polyester or a combination of polyester and synthetic fibers. They can look like more expensive wool rugs, even though they are often machine-woven.

Woods states that synthetic rugs can be inexpensive so they are great for adding a splash of color to your home without making a big investment. But synthetic fiber rugs are often dirtier looking than true wool rugs, or other natural fiber rugs types. This is because the smooth strands of synthetic fiber can’t trap dirt.