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The 20 Best Area Rugs of 2024

Make over a living room or spruce up a kitchen with these decorative accents

Ruggable Absida Teal Premium Rug

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

An area rug provides cushioning and warmth, muffles sounds, and adds a decorative layer to a room. (It's also great for covering up ugly floors or old carpeting.)

To help find the perfect pick for your space, we've spent hours researching and testing area rugs from the top home and decor brands, evaluating quality, ease of care and cleaning, and value.  Our favorite picks include a tufted cotton pick from Bungalow Road, a unique octagonal option from Rugs.com, and one that feels like your favorite sweater from Pottery Barn.

Bungalow Rose Samaniego Hand-Tufted Gray/Blue Area Rug

Bungalow Rose Oriental Handmade Tufted Wool Gray/Blue Area Rug

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Long-lasting

  • Easy to clean

  • Comes in various colors and sizes

What We Don't Like
  • No warranty

For a highly used room in your house, like the living room, look for a durable material like wool, and choose a darker color that has some pattern to it. Wool rugs, like the Samaniego Oriental Hand-Tufted Area Rug, are great choices, because they look high-end but are long-lasting—especially if you use a rug pad underneath to help absorb some of the shocks that come along with constant foot traffic. They’re also easy to clean.

When it comes to color, opt for something in the middle—like this dark blue option—that has speckles or a pattern to help conceal minor debris. Rugs that are too dark have a tendency to show crumbs and other small particles, and they also fade much more quickly.

Pile Height: 0.5 inches | Material: Wool | Size: 2x3, 3x5, 4x6, 5x8, 6x9, 8x10, 2.25x8, 9x12, 6 round, 6x6 feet | Shape: Rectangle, Round, Square

Close-up of the Bungalow Rose Oriental Handmade Tufted Wool Gray/Blue Area Rug on a wooden surface

 The Spruce

Ruggable Absida Teal Premium Rug

Ruggable Absida Teal Premium Rug

Ruggable

What We Like
  • Three-times thicker than traditional Ruggable rugs

  • Machine-washable

  • Two rug pad choices

What We Don't Like
  • May take longer to dry

Ruggable's line of premium medium pile rugs of the same washability as the rest of the brand's rugs, but with added plush comfort under your feet. Three times thicker than Ruggable's classic pile height, these options look and feel luxurious without sacrificing easy care. We love this water- and stain-resistant option that features a colorful and modern design that will brighten up any room but won't take away from other design elements. The mirrored rainbow-esque design adds a sense of symmetry to ground the center of any living or bedroom with warm, inviting tones.

Pile Height: 0.3 inches | Material: Tufted Yarn | Sizes: 2x3, 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, 6x9 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Dash and Albert Rugs Hand Tufted Cotton Indigo Rug

Dash and Albert Rugs Herringbone Hand Tufted Cotton Indigo Rug

Herringbone

What We Like
  • Sustainable

  • Affordable

  • Comes in various colors and sizes

What We Don't Like
  • Needs a rug pad

If you're searching for the perfect area rug for your living space, you can’t go wrong with this beautiful handwoven indigo mat. It’s made of soft cotton, making it sustainable, soft underfoot, and affordable. While cotton flat-weave isn't the plushest option on the market, the material is still very soft.

The small chevron pattern adds just enough interest without detracting from the rest of your decor. The pattern also helps mask small debris and minor stains between cleanings. Though this area rug is only meant for indoor use, it’ll look great in nearly any room, from a home office or bedroom to the kitchen. A rug pad is recommended so that it won't slip around.

Pile Height: 0.25 inches | Material: Cotton | Size: 2x3, 4x6, 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 2.6x8, 2.6x12, 10x14, 3x5, 5x8 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Two chairs and a table set on a Dash and Albert Rugs Herringbone Hand Tufted Cotton Indigo Rug outside
The Spruce / Carrie Bluth

House of Hampton Darrold Performance Rug

House of Hampton Darrold Machine Woven / Power Loomed Performance Slate Blue Rug

Wayfair

What We Like
  • Plush and soft

  • Non-slip backing

  • Lots of color and size options

What We Don't Like
  • Light colors won't hide dirt

This Hampton House rug draws inspiration from Moroccan designs for a look that can feel beachy or modern depending on how you style it. It's made from OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100- certified materials with a high pile height. This means it feels extra plush and will remain durable and beautiful for years to come. The repeated design comes in four neutral colors that are easy to pair with any furniture. Plus, it won't stain or fade over time.

Pile Height: 2 inches | Material: ‎Polypropylene | Sizes: 2x3, 2.3x3.9, 3x3, 3 round, 3x5, 4x6, 5x5, 5 round, 5.1x7.6, 6x9, 7x7, 7 round, 8x10, 9x9, 9 round, 9 x12, 10x14, 11x5 feet | Shape: Rectangle, Square, Circle

What We Like
  • Comes in various colors and sizes

  • Easy to clean

  • Kid- and pet-friendly

What We Don't Like
  • Needs a rug pad

Another beautiful option for your home or apartment is the nuLOOM Moroccan Blythe Area Rug. This traditional area rug features a modern Moroccan trellis design that’s available in six colors, from a muted gray that’s perfect for a living room to a multicolored option that’s fun for a playroom. Although most color options skew on the light side, a low pile height makes the rug easy to clean.

Pile Height: Various | Material: Polypropylene | Size: 2x3, 2x6, 2.5x6, 2.5x10, 2.5x12, 2.5x14, 2.5x16, 2.5x18, 2.5x20, 2x8, 2.7x8, 2.7x12, 2.7x20, 3x5, 3x5 oval, 4 round, 4x4, 4x6, 4x6 oval, 5 round, 5x5, 5x7.4, 5x8 oval, 6 octagon, 6 round, 6x6, 6.6x9, 6.6x9 oval, 6x9, 8 round, 8x8, 8x10, 8.8x12, 8x11, 9.8x14, 10 round, 10x10, 10x13, 10x14, 12x15, 12x18 feet | Shape: Rectangle, Circle, Octagon, Oval

Rifle Paper Co. Provence Joliette Power-Loomed Rug

Rifle Paper Co. Provence Joliette Power-Loomed Rug

Rifle Paper Co.

What We Like
  • Carved details for added dimension

  • Fringe adds interest

  • Unique floral design

What We Don't Like
  • Not machine washable

Rifle Paper Co is the premier destination for colorful, floral, and feminine rugs that add beauty to any space. The newest Spring collection features Loloi textiles with Rifle Paper Co's signature designs. We love this dark option with muted flowers throughout for an understated girly aesthetic that still blends seamlessly with other decor pieces. It features carved elements for added dimension and a small fringe for a playful element. While they're not machine washable, these rugs clean easily with frequent vacuuming and spot cleaning when necessary.

Pile Height: 0.13 inches | Material: ‎Polypropylene, Polyester | Sizes: 2.5x4, 2.5x8, 2.5x10, 2.5x12, 3.6x5.6, 5x7.6, 6.25x9, 7.8x10, 9x12 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Rugs USA Diamond Trellis Nursery Rug

Rugs USA Tuscan Dotted Diamond Trellis Nursery Rug

Rugs USA

What We Like
  • Easy to clean

  • Hypoallergenic

  • Comes in various colors and sizes

What We Don't Like
  • Sheds

In a nursery, look for an area rug comfortable enough for the baby to lounge on and crawl on. You'll also want a rug that’s easy to clean. Let’s face it, babies are messy! The Tuscan Dotted Diamond Trellis Nursery Rug delivers in both areas.

The 100 percent natural wool fiber is soft and comfortable, but it’s also hypoallergenic—perfect for a baby’s sensitive skin. Thanks to its low-pile weave, wool is also very durable and easy to clean. For stubborn spills and stains, it can be spot-treated or steam-cleaned. There are two different sizes to choose from and five different color options, ranging from pale pink to blue.

Pile Height: Various | Material: Wool | Size: 4x6, 5x8, 6x9, 7.5x9.5 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Close-up of the Rugs USA Tuscan Dotted Diamond Trellis Nursery Rug set on a white floor

The Spruce / Katie Begley

Pottery Barn Chunky Knit Sweater Handwoven Rug

Pottery Barn Chunky Knit Sweater Handwoven Rug

Pottery Barn

What We Like
  • Textured look

  • Neutral colors match with any decor

  • Handcrafted

What We Don't Like
  • Needs professional cleaning

Imagine your favorite chunky sweater that's the perfect combination of warmth and comfort in the wintertime. Now you can feel the same comfort and texture every day in your own space with this rug from Pottery Barn. Aptly named the chunky knit sweater rug, this option features thick yarn handwoven together to mimic a cable-knit sweater. Your purchase supports the work of artisans around the world and also helps save the planet through the use of recycled and reclaimed materials. It's important to note that slight shedding will occur at first but will diminish after regular vacuuming. You will have to get this pick professionally cleaned if it gets really dirty, so it may not be the best option for those with households with kids or pets.

Pile Height: 0.5 inches | Material: ‎Wool, Viscose, Cotton | Sizes: 2.5x9, 2.5x12, 3x5, 4x6, 5x8, 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14, 12x18 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Rugs USA Rhea Modern Abstract Area Rug

Rugs USA Beige Rhea Modern Abstract Area Rug

Rugs USA

What We Like
  • Colorful modern design

  • Tons of sizes available

  • Tassels add extra interest

What We Don't Like
  • Can fray over time

If your neutral-colored furniture set needs a bit of liveliness, consider a bright, geometric rug like this pick from Rugs.com. Hues of orange, blue, and yellow come together on a beige canvas to pull attention and interest to the center of your living room, while the tassels on both sides add a bohemian, playful element. This design is also available as a runner for empty hallways and is designed to be pet-friendly and easy to clean.

Pile Height: 0.9 inches | Material: Polyester | Sizes: 3x5, 4x6, 5.3x7.7, 6.7x9, 8x11, 9x12 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Dash & Albert Geometric Diamond Rug

Dash & Albert Geometric Diamond Indoor/Outdoor Rug

Dash & Albert

What We Like
  • Can be used indoors and outdoors

  • Easy to clean

  • Fade-, stain-, weather-, and mildew-resistant

  • Affordable

  • Comes in various colors and sizes

What We Don't Like
  • No warranty

It’s particularly important to choose a stain-resistant rug in dining areas and highly-trafficked rooms. A synthetic indoor/outdoor rug like this one is a great choice for these spots since it's durable and easy to care for.

This geometric, handwoven rug is fade-, stain-, weather-, and mildew-resistant. Plus, the pattern helps mask any stubborn spots that may linger after cleaning. Use it in your kitchen, dining room, entryway, patio, covered porch, or three-season room. Customers give this rug high marks for its affordable price, soft texture (even on bare feet), and durability.

Pile Height: 0.25 | Material: Polypropylene | Size: 2x3, 3x5, 4x6, 5x8, 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, 10x14, 12x16 feet feet | Shape: Rectangle

Close-up of the Dash & Albert Geometric Diamond Indoor/Outdoor Rug tag

The Spruce / Joline Buscemi

Ashler Home Faux Sheepskin Rug

Ashler Home Ultra Soft Faux Sheepskin Rug

Amazon

What We Like
  • Machine washable

  • Extremely affordable

  • Thick and soft on the feet

What We Don't Like
  • Can shed over time

Boasting over 30,000 five-star reviews, this sheepskin area rug from Amazon offers an expensive look for a budget-friendly price. Perfect for small accent rugs in kids' rooms or a pop of color in the dining room, the faux fur feels soft to the touch, while the suede leather bottom won't slip under your feet. There are over 25 colors available, so you're guaranteed to find one that fits your space. It's a great sold color option that still sparks interest with texture and feel. It's easy to vacuum and shake out, but when it gets really dirty, just throw it in the washing machine.

Pile Height: Not Listed | Material: ‎Faux Sheepskin Fur | Sizes: 2x2.9, 2x3, 2x4, 2x6, 2.2x4, 2.2x6, 2.3x3.3, 3x3, 3x5, 4x4, 4x6, 5x7, 5x8, 6x8, 6x9 feet | Shape: Natural

Alexander Home Yosemite Faux Cowhide Area Rug

Alexander Home Yosemite Faux Cowhide Area Rug

Alexander Home

What We Like
  • Faux hide

  • Rustic, Western look

  • Durable and resistant to wear

What We Don't Like
  • Not an identical match to real hide

This Alexander Holmes rug gives the rustic look of a cowhide rug without the high price. The Yosemite faux cowhide rug has an attractive brown and beige tone with natural edges. Choose from three sizes to adorn an office, reading nook, or entryway, or layer over a traditional rectangle rug for a unique pairing of colors or patterns. The indoor-only rug is spot-clean only and may not resemble a real cowhide exactly, but it is a great cruelty-free alternative that mirrors the Western vibe.

Pile Height: 0.25-0.5 inches | Material: ‎Acrylic, Polyester | Sizes: 5x6.6, 3.1x5, 6.2x8 feet | Shape: Natural

IKEA Vedbäk Rug

IKEA Vedbak area rug

IKEA

What We Like
  • Stain-resistant

  • Works well in high-traffic areas

  • Easy to clean

What We Don't Like
  • Needs a rug pad

A tight budget doesn't mean that you have to settle for a cheap rug that smells like chemicals, sheds regularly, and unravels after a few months of foot traffic. These days, you can get perfectly adequate—and frankly, very attractive—rugs at very low prices. For a great budget-friendly rug, we recommend the VEDBAK Rug at IKEA.

This low-pile rug is made of 100 percent polypropylene (a synthetic material that's fairly inexpensive and stain-resistant), so it will work well in a dining room or living room, where you're getting a lot of foot traffic. The pattern is intricate and colorful, which makes the rug look must more expensive than it actually is. The low-pile is soft and easy to vacuum. Major stains should be handled by professional cleaners.

Pile Height: 0.5 inches | Material: Polypropylene | Size: 4.3x6.4, 5.6x7.6, 6.6 x 9.8 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Unique Loom Shag Collection Area Rug

Unique Loom Solo Solid Shag Collection Area Rug

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy to clean

  • Comes in various colors and sizes

  • Won't shed

What We Don't Like
  • Needs a rug pad

When it comes to the bedroom, comfort is key. You want the space you sleep in to be inviting and warm. The Unique Loom Solo Solid Shag Collection Area Rug is a great way to transform your bedroom, as it's plush and cozy, and comes in about 20 different colors to complement any decor style. A range of sizes will help you find the best fit for your space. It’s also easy to clean and stain-resistant, and it won’t shed.

Pile Height: 1.5 inches | Material: Polypropylene | Size: 2.2x3, 2.2x3.1, 2.2x6, 2.2x6.6, 2x3.1, 2.5x13.1, 2.5x116.4, 1.5x19.7, 2.6x10.7, 3 round, 3x3, 3.25x5.25, 3.25x5.25 oval, 4 round, 4 octagon, 4.1x6.1, 5 round, 5x5, 5.1x8, 5x8 oval, 6 octagon, 6.1 round, 6.1x9, 7 round, 7.1x10, 8 round, 8x8, 8 octagon, 8x10, 8x10 oval, 8x11, 9x12.2, 10.2 round, 10x13.1, 12.3 round, 12x15 | Shape: Rectangle, Oval, Octagon, Circle, Square

TWINNIS Super Soft Shaggy Rug

TWINNIS Super Soft Shaggy Rug

Amazon

What We Like
  • Affordable

  • Very soft

  • Lots of color and size options

What We Don't Like
  • Not very thick

For those who are looking for the perfect rug for a playroom or nurse that's soft enough for little ones to lounge on, look no further. The TWINNIS shaggy rug is made from microfiber that's soft and plush. There are nine colors and five sizes available with a non-slip base so you won't have to worry about kids playing and falling. Plus, it's machine-washable. Although very soft, this isn't the thickest rug, so you may want to add a sizable rug pad when using it in high-traffic areas.

Pile Height: Not Listed | Material: ‎Synthetic Microfiber | Sizes: 3x5, 4x5.9, 5x8, 6x9, 8x10 feet | Shape: Rectangle

JONATHAN Y Moroccan Hype Boho Vintage Diamond Area Rug

JONATHAN Y Moroccan Hype Boho Vintage Diamond Area Rug

Amazon

What We Like
  • True to color and pattern

  • Quick and secure delivery

  • Tightly woven construction

What We Don't Like
  • Not machine-washable

This classic area rug has a bohemian feel that blends seamlessly with any living room decor. It has a simple diamond motif that looks gorgeous yet understated in eight attractive colors. The synthetic material and low pile won't trap dirt or fade over time, so it's perfect for high-traffic areas of your home. It's machine-woven, so the fibers won't stain or shed. Be sure to buy a rug pad as well, so it will stay put and won't slip under your feet. To keep it clean, the brand recommends vacuuming regularly and spot cleaning as needed.

Pile Height: Not Listed | Material: ‎Polypropylene | Sizes: 2x3, 2x8, 2x10, 2x16, 2x18, 2x20, 3x5, 2x5 oval, 4 round, 4x4, 4x6 oval, 4x6, 5 round, 5x5, 5x8, 5x8 oval, 6 round, 6x6, 6x9, 6x9 oval, 8 round, 8x8, 8x10, 9x12 feet | Shape: Rectangle, Oval, Square, Circle

Rugs.com Monte Carlo Octagon Rug

Rugs.com 5' 3 x 5' 3 Monte Carlo Octagon Rug

Rugs.com

What We Like
  • Suitable for high traffic areas

  • Unique shape

  • Affordable

What We Don't Like
  • Can be difficult to assemble with rug pad

Consider ditching standard square and rectangle rugs for a more unique shape to highlight small nooks and corners in your space. We love this octagon option from Rugs.com. Create a stunning sitting area with just a comfortable armchair, a small side table, a tall houseplant, and this Monte Carlo rug. The muted design comes in beige and gray made from stain-resistant and shed-free material. It may be a bit tricky to lay down with a rug pad, but trust us, it's worth it.

Pile Height: 0.25 inches | Material: ‎Polypropylene | Sizes: 4x4, 5.3x5.3, 6x6, 8x8 feet | Shape: Octagon

What We Like
  • Stain-resistant and non-shedding

  • Modern checkered design

  • Suitable for floor heating

What We Don't Like
  • Only two sizes available

Perfect for teens' bedrooms to modern living rooms, this checkered rug from AllModern can do it all. The geometric design comes in seven muted colors from a lovely sage green to a bold burnt orange. Because of the high pile height, this option works best in areas with little foot traffic, like under a dining room table or as an accent rug in the bedroom. The empty cream border gives the rectangular rug a softer feel, making it perfect to pair with round-edged couches, chairs, and tables.

Pile Height: 1.3 inches | Material: Polypropylene | Sizes: 5.25 x7, 7.8x10 feet | Shape: Rectangle

Bungalow Rose Nuss Performance Rug

Bungalow Rose Nuss Machine Woven / Power Loomed Performance Rug

Amazon

What We Like
  • Lots of shape and size options

  • Stain-resistant

  • Colors and design match what's listed online

What We Don't Like
  • On the thin side

Made in Turkey, this highly rated rug resists stains, fading, and moisture, making it a no-brainer option for living rooms and bedrooms. Plus, the attractive design is available in tons of sizes and colors to fit your space perfectly. We're partial to the circular option for unique living room setups for office nooks. Ophelia & Co uses OEKO-Tex-certified materials, so you can ensure your rug is free from harmful toxins and chemicals. While it's not machine-washable, it's built to be extremely durable, so bring on kids, pets, and any other messes you can imagine.

Pile Height: 0.43 inches | Material: ‎Polypropylene, Jute, Polyester | Sizes: 2.6x4, 3x5, 4x4, 4 round, 4x6, 5.1x7.6, 6 round, 6x6, 6x9, 8 round, 8x8, 8x10, 9x9, 9 round, 9x12, 10 round, 10x14, 11x15, 12 round, 12x12, 12x18 feet | Shape: Rectangle, Square, Circle

Cat standing on a Dash and Albert Rugs Herringbone Hand Tufted Cotton Indigo Rug next to blue couch and wooden table
The Spruce / Joline Buscemi

What to Look for in an Area Rug

Pile

The pile height refers to how long the carpet fibers are. Typically, pile height for an area rug is described as low, medium, or high—though you’ll sometimes see it expressed in inches. Area rugs with a low pile or no pile (like flatwoven rugs or jute rugs) typically offer easier maintenance, since it’s harder for dirt, debris, and pet hair to hide among fibers. However, a medium- or high-pile area rug will give you a cushier, more luxurious feeling.

Fibers

The type of fibers used to make an area rug will have a big impact on the durability, softness, and stain resistance of the rug. You may spot natural materials like cotton, jute, or wool (likely to be the most expensive). However, many synthetic fibers are being used to make area rugs, including polypropylene, nylon, and polyester. These fibers offer advantages in terms of durability and stain resistance and often are more cost-effective than some natural fibers.

Size and Shape

One of the most important things to consider when shopping for an area rug is the size. If you go too small, the rug will seem out of proportion with the room and won’t suit its purpose. However, a rug that is too large can overwhelm the space—or might not fit at all. Remember that area rugs aren’t always rectangular. Oval, round, and square area rugs can make a nice addition to your room as well.

Close-up of the Dash and Albert Rugs Herringbone Hand Tufted Cotton Indigo Rug folded over on wooden flooring
The Spruce / Joline Buscemi
FAQ
  • How do you clean an area rug?

    To start, area rugs should be vacuumed at least once a week. That will make it easier to clean your rug when it comes time, because there will be less dirt and grime buried deep within the rug fibers. An area rug should be deep-cleaned at least twice a year and more often if it's in an area with heavy foot traffic.

    If your area rug is stained, you'll want to spot-clean it immediately. To spot-clean, try using a solution of one teaspoon of dishwashing liquid with two cups of warm water. When cleaning the entire rug, you can use carpet shampoo on most area rugs, but you'll want to check and see whether you need to dilute it first before using it. You can apply the shampoo to your rug with a sponge mop or soft-bristled brush and then rinse it thoroughly.

  • How big should an area rug be?

    Choosing the right-sized area rug for your home will depend on preference and where you'd like it to go. As a good rule of thumb, your rug should be at least six inches, but no more than two feet away from a room's walls. Typical living room-sized area rugs are 8 x 10 and 10 x 12. You'll also want to leave around 30 to 36 inches of space between the rug and any large pieces of furniture in your space.

  • How do you get an area rug to stay flat?

    If you're having trouble getting your area rug to lay flat, there are a few things you can do. You can purchase a non skid pad which is specifically designed to go under an area rug. This will help keep the floor underneath your rug from getting damaged and keeps your area rug from sliding around when walked on. If you're looking for a budget-friendly solution, you can try rug anchors or adhesives that stick underneath the corners of your area rug to keep it firmly in place.

  • How do you place an area rug in a living room?

    Follow these few steps to place an area rug in your living room perfectly. Start by measuring your living room. The majority of area rugs come in either 8 x 10 or 9 x 12, though there are larger and smaller sizes. Then, consider layering more expensive, smaller rugs on top of cheaper, larger ones to save money. Finally, determine how to place the legs of your furniture. From the classic all-legs-on style to the rule-bending float choice, every living room is unique and may favor one over the others.

The Checkout Counter

Before you check out, consider these products you may also need to complement your new area rug.

  1. Room & Board Natural Rubber Rug Pad: With standout non-slip capability and a sturdy design that'll hold up well underfoot, this is our editors' favorite rug pad (and we've tried it firsthand!)
  2. Better Homes & Gardens Cushioned Non-Slip Area Rug Pad: Budget-friendly yet extra grippy to keep rugs of any size perfectly in place, this thin pad will do the trick for less (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce's parent company, Dotdash Meredith.)
  3. Mohawk Ultra Premium Rug Pad: Extra-thick and crafted out of soft felt, you can choose just how cushioned you'd like your floors underfoot with this nicely-padded rug pad.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Julia Fields a lifestyle writer for The Spruce who has covered all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. Before that, she covered similar topics, including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert-focused articles, and more.

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