Hello there! Thanks so much for visiting today. If you are new here, we are a military family living overseas. I love sharing sharing rental friendly decorating ideas and DIYs and living in small spaces. If you are a regular reader, welcome back friend! I so appreciate you being here. Let’s get to chatting about rugs.
I absolutely love all the rug choices we have available, especially online, but after you spot a pretty rug and then what? Do you know if it will last? Is it the right size? Today, I’m sharing all about rug placement, size, and material to help guide you through your next rug purchase.
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Rug Material Guide

Silk rugs are the most expensive and difficult to care for. They are considered pieces of art and are usually hand painted.
Cotton rugs are cheaper but less durable and should not be placed where moisture can be present.
Synthetic rugs are the cheapest option and often resemble wool, are fairly easy to clean, and can be more practical for high traffic areas. West Elm, IKEA, and Lowe’s are other places to look for affordable rugs. Also a rug with a blend of synthetic and other materials are great for families with children and/or pets.
Rug Placement and Size




A Little about Rug Styles


There are so many options for rugs, if you are completely overwhelmed these tips will help you get started but they are just guidelines. Feel free to experiment, anything goes! If you have any questions or want to leave a comment, I would love to hear from you!
*Updated from the original post written May, 2013.
Paula Carl says
Very good tips on rug placement and styles
Kathy says
Thank you! There are so many options out there, just touching on the basics.
Andrea says
Amazing! Great! Awesome!
The best tips i ever read about anything in home decor.
So clear and instructive. I am not afraid to buy my rug anymore!
Thank you very much!!!
Kathy says
Wonderful Andrea! Happy to hear it!!
Stephanie @ Casa Watkins Living says
Great tips Kathy! Thanks for including my living room too. It was a surprise. 🙂 Meanwhile, loving that silk rug in your bedroom!!!
Kathy says
Your photos are so gorgeous Steph! I was thrilled to include one. 🙂
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Cassie Bustamante says
such great tips and examples! and gosh west elm always nails it with their rugs!
Kathy says
thanks Cassie!! I love west elm. 🙂
Aaron White says
I liked how you mentioned that fur or hide rugs can be used in any space because they are shaped organically. My wife and I are wanting to upgrade our kitchen and we were wondering what rug we should use for the area. I’ll be sure to tell her that we could use fur or hide rugs for the kitchen.