THE BEST (+ WORST) RUGS FOR HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS

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I’ve told this story before, so bear with me one more time if you’ve heard it already…Chris and I were browsing the aisles of Home Depot when we stumbled upon the most gorgeous plush rug we had ever laid eyes on. And then we touched it and we were sold…like immediately. We bought two and put those beautiful creamy white shag rugs in our living room and bedroom.

Here’s the deal with shag rugs, they are not ever to be used in high or medium traffic rooms! Thanks to our heavy foot traffic, our stunning shag rugs matted down within a month and our love for them drifted away along with the money we spent on them. 🙂

Since then I’ve learned the importance of researching what types of rugs are best for high traffic areas and as a result of some heavy google searching, I’ve learned what materials are best and worst.

So when it comes to high traffic rooms, avoid these types of rugs:

• Plush Rugs: Whether they are shag, fur, or just have plush embellishments, plush rugs are known for matting and being difficult to clean and maintain. If it’s a soft cloud under your feet that you want, consider putting a thick rug pad under your rug instead.

• Rugs made from silk or viscose: Silk and viscose (which is similar to silk) are both delicate materials. Although they look beautiful, they are fragile and can wear down easily from heavy foot traffic.

• Rugs with a thick pile height: Typically rugs with a pile height of 0.75″ or more are plush and like I said earlier…plush is not your friend in high traffic rooms.

Instead, DO get these types of rugs:

• Wool – Wool is known for being one of the more resilient materials. It’s soft and resistent to stains and water. You may have to pay more upfront but it’s more likely to last longer! Keep in mind that wool is not ideal for damp or humid rooms and it may shed (but that should lessen with time).

• Cotton/Flat-weave – Many flat-weave rugs are made from cotton which is a fairly durable fabric. It’s known for being easy to clean and some can even be tossed in the washing machine! It’s also soft on the feet and cotton rugs are typically reasonably priced!

• Jute or Sisal – Natural rugs made from jute or sisal are strong and often very affordable! They can handle the abrasion of heavy foot traffic and are an excellent base option for layering rugs. The negatives to natural fiber rugs are that they stain easily, they can be difficult to clean, and they are course under your feet. (Which again, that’s why they’re great for layering under rugs.)

• Synthetic – Rugs made from man-made materials such as nylon or polypropylene are some of the most common rug types on the market. They are made to withstand heavy foot traffic, they’re easy to clean and they’re stain resistent. They’re also pretty affordable.

• Rugs with a low pile height – Rugs that have a pile height of 0.5″ or less are generally easier to maintain and clean.

Here are some great options for high traffic rugs that I found and love!

SOURCES:

1. Loomis Black and White Loop Rug from CB2

2. Multi Cartouche Medallion Tassel Rug from Rugs USA

3. Blue Chunky Loop Jute Rug from Rugs USA

4. Copper with White Stripe Rug from CB2

5. Ombre Deep Teal Rug from CB2

6. Natural Handspun Jute Rug from Rugs USA

7. Nasha Striped Indoor/Outdoor Rug from Lulu and Georgia

8. Safavieh Handmade Flatweave Montauk Maie Casual Cotton Rug from Overstock

9. Remi Printed Rug from Urban Outfitters

10. Costello Woven Rug from Urban Outfitters

11. Maisy Triangle Rag Rug from Urban Outfitters

12. Mina Rug from Lulu and Georgia