The right area rug can change the feel of a room, a patio or a whole house. Vibrant colors, rich textures and intricate patterns can dress up a room while a more muted color palette or a subtle design can highlight other artwork you've chosen for your home. Overstock.com offers them in every shape, size and color, so you can find exactly what you want to complement your home decor.
Braided styles are a popular choice for kitchens and homes striving for a country feel. For a sophisticated look, consider a rug crafted from wool, silk or even leather. Luxurious materials add a luxe feel anywhere they're placed, and complex patterns allow you to showcase lots of colors without committing to a single shade. Hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs, while both made by hand, involve different processes, and the prices will reflect that. Read our
Area Rug Glossary for more information.
When choosing a shape, make sure to consider where it will lie and what furniture you'll use with it. Squares are popular choices for living rooms, and a round or oval rug will coordinate with a similarly shaped table in a dining room. A small rectangle could be perfect in front of the kitchen sink while a round shape might make your bathroom more inviting; use a round rug in the kitchen for a less formal feel.
Rugs are more than just decorative items; they're also very practical. They can protect hardwood floors from spills, stains and wear and tear from kids and pets. They can also make concrete or tile floors more inviting and less slippery, and they can serve as sound absorbers and minimize noise in a hallway. If you'll be using it on a slick floor, invest in a
rug pad; it provides traction and padding and prolongs the life of your area rug.
Once you've chosen your rug and placed it in your home, you can keep it looking good with regular maintenance. Blot any spills as quickly as possible and vacuum regularly to prevent dirt and stains from getting ground in, especially in high-traffic areas, like hallways or the den. If a stain does set in, consult our guide on
how to remove stains from a rug.