Home » Living Room » Best Area Rugs for the Living Room in 2022

Best Area Rugs for the Living Room in 2023

Nothing quite pulls a room together like an area rug. Plus, they are great at absorbing noise and protecting hardwoods. From placement to lifestyle, there are so many aspects to consider when choosing a rug. With all the variations, shopping for one is a true adventure.

Best Area Rugs for the Living Room
Safavieh California Premium Shag Collection

However, there is one benefit to the sheer number of choices available – You’re bound to find one that meets your needs, matches your style, suits your space and comes in under budget. The answers to the common questions below can guide you during your search.


This website is supported by readers. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Finding the Right Rug for Your Space Video (By Kin)


Manufacturer Spotlight: Safavieh

For over 100 years, Safavieh has been in the rug business. All their area rugs are made in regions that are renowned for their superior weaving ability, such as India, Persia and Turkey. With styles, materials and techniques used to make area rugs at all price points, this manufacturer caters to every taste and budget. However, each rug shares one common feature – quality.

Safavieh California Premium Shag Collection
Safavieh California Premium Shag Collection

Area Rugs: Top Safavieh Area Rugs in 2023

5) Safavieh California Shag Collection SG151-1313

The area rugs in Safavieh’s California Shag Collection are simple with a hint of luxury. With a pile height of 2 inches, these rugs feel plush under your feet. Since they’re made of polypropylene yarn, you can count on the rug of your choice to be durable and resistant to stains.

When you think of beige, you may think “bland” or “boring,” but the beige rugs in this collection contain flecks of white to give it depth and create the illusion of a slight sheen. Although beige suits any decor scheme, there are 19 other colors like a modern black, classic navy, pastel blue and jewel-tone purple.

No matter if you choose a rectangular 8-by-10-inch rug or a circular 4-inch rug, you’re getting a quality, power-loomed area rug crafted in Turkey, which has a rug-making history that spans over 800 years. Taking care of your new rug will be easy – simply vacuum and spot clean it as needed.

SAFAVIEH California Shag Collection Area Rug...
  • [NON-SHEDDING]: Expertly machine-woven from enhanced soft synthetic durable fibers that...
  • [EASY MAINTENANCE & DURABLE]: Stress-free cleaning includes regular vacuuming (without a...

4) Safavieh Milan Shag Collection SG180-1212

If you’re looking for a plush carpet that is a little denser than the California Shag, the Milan Shag offers the same softness with a thicker density. The 2-inch pile gives these area rugs an upscale appearance, yet the rugs barely shed. This makes the Milan Shags suitable for placement in high-traffic spaces.

The ivory-colored rugs are a fantastic neutral that can make a statement without overpowering the room, and their finished edges make the rugs look put-together. To customize the room you’re decorating, there are nine other colors that range from mocha brown to aqua blue, and you can choose from circular, rectangular and square rugs of various sizes.

With the use of synthetic polypropylene yarn on a power loom, Safavieh can offer long-lasting, Turkish-made area rugs at an affordable price. Like the fibers, the jute backing is also strong; however, a pad is needed to protect delicate floors.

SAFAVIEH Milan Shag Collection Area Rug - 8'...
  • [NON-SHEDDING]: Expertly machine-woven from enhanced soft synthetic durable fibers that...
  • [EASY MAINTENANCE & DURABLE]: Stress-free cleaning includes regular vacuuming (without a...

3) Safavieh Retro Collection RET2138-1165

This area rug is part of Safavieh’s Retro Collection, and its abstract pattern feels as if you have a piece of modern art on your floor. Its quad color scheme of blue, cream, tan and chocolate brown cascade horizontally like waterfalls of paint down a canvas, putting a unique twist on mid-century modern decor.

With a 0.5-inch pile height, this contemporary-style piece offers softness without pressure dents. The durable polypropylene fibers won’t shed in copious amounts, and the area rug is available in 6-inch and 8-inch squares and circles as well as rectangles from 2 feet and 3 inches by 7 feet to 12 feet by 18 feet.

Like many of the area rugs made by Safavieh, this modern yet refined rug comes from Turkey. The rugs are power loomed by a machine, mimicking the appearance of hand knotting. Instead of bulky foam or slippery jute backing, the yarn is kept in place by a non-visible layer of latex.

SAFAVIEH Retro Collection Area Rug - 8' x...
  • [STAIN RESISTANT & NON-SHEDDING]: Expertly machine-woven from enhanced synthetic durable...
  • [KID AND PET-FRIENDLY]: Safe for everyday indoor high foot traffic and areas more prone to...

2) Safavieh Florida Shag Collection SG456-7928

Transitional that leans toward the modern side, this borderless area rug from the Florida Shag Collection can make any room cozier. Its pile height of 1 inch means the rug offers the perfect level of plushness for any den or living room.

You can’t go wrong with either color option whether you choose the lighter smoke-and-brown combo or the darker brown-and-gray combo. The pattern depicts hyacinth blossoms surrounded by fronds, lending it an understated tropical air that is anything but garish. Both color choices instantly conjure feelings of warm, relaxing summer nights by the lake.

Safavieh offers this Florida Shag area rug in 14 sizes and three shapes. The fibers are made from resilient polypropylene, a synthetic material, and the rugs are crafted on a power loom. Since the area rugs don’t have any backing, you’ll need a non-slip pad to keep them secure.

SAFAVIEH Florida Shag Collection Area Rug -...
  • [NON-SHEDDING]: Expertly machine-woven from enhanced soft synthetic durable fibers that...
  • [PLUSH & COZY]: Features a 1.2-inch thick textured pile height for just the right amount...

1) Safavieh Hudson Shag Collection SGH282B

Easy to maintain and attractive in any space, these transitional rugs from the Hudson Shag Collection are a true gem. They are made of polypropylene fibers that don’t stain as easy as natural fibers. With its 2-inch pile, you get loads of plush comfort.

The Moroccan Trellis pattern on the non-bordered rugs gives them an exotic touch. Each of the four colors invokes a different mood. The ivory on gray color has a modern and stylish feel while the gray on ivory is clean and airy. If you want a non-neutral rug, the navy-and-ivory color is a bold and rich choice. If glamour and elegance are what you’re after, the slate blue and ivory area rug is perfect.

These Turkish rugs are power loomed, making them surprisingly budget-friendly. With sizes as large as 11 feet by 15 feet, you can find the ideal area rug for any room. Their backings are made of jute and latex, which means the rugs can slip if not placed on top of a pad.

SAFAVIEH Hudson Shag Collection Area Rug - 8'...
  • [NON-SHEDDING]: Expertly machine-woven from enhanced soft synthetic durable fibers that...
  • [PLUSH & COZY]: Features a 2-inch thick pile height for just the right amount of cozy...

Buying Guide

After reading numerous descriptions of area rugs, you most likely have some questions such as, “What is the difference between tufted and knotted” and “Should I choose a synthetic or natural fiber?” When shopping for an area rug, it’s easy to get lost in the lingo.

Safavieh California Premium Shag Collectio
Safavieh California Premium Shag Collection

Before you jump on the first rug that catches your eye, learn about area rug weaves, fibers and styles, so you can find one that is not only stunning but also fits your needs.

Styles

Let’s face it. The first noticeable aspect of any area rug is how it looks. While there are many variations within each style, area rugs are grouped into three basic categories – traditional, transitional and contemporary. The style that works best for you completely depends on your personal tastes.

Traditional area rugs are the most formal type of rug, often consisting of rich colors and elaborate medallions, borders and patterns. Many modern traditional-style rugs draw inspiration from patterns used for years by craftsmen in Asia and Europe. Those that have southwestern designs may also be loosely classified as traditional.

Geometric patterns, bold colors and asymmetrical shapes are the defining characteristics of contemporary rugs. Some contemporary rugs are designed with periods of the past in mind. Art Deco and mid-century modern are two common choices.

Transitional rugs take the elegance of the traditional and temper it with muted colors and less intricate designs. The final product is casual beauty. Like their traditional counterparts, transitional area rugs may be designed around motifs like florals.

Natural Fibers

An area rug’s fibers make all the difference when it comes to its look, feel and durability. Fibers are either natural or synthetic. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages.

Cotton, jute, silk, viscose and wool are natural fibers used to make area rugs. Jute is ultra-strong, and it’s a great choice for those who are allergic to wool. If you prefer an earthy look, jute is the way to go. Seagrass and sisal are two alternatives; however, they aren’t as soft as jute.

Wool is a top choice among rug makers because it’s soft under the feet, resistant to stains and retains its bounce. Although the wool may be sourced from anywhere, New Zealand wool is the strongest. If you’re on a tight budget but love the look of wool, cotton is an excellent alternative.

Then, there is luxurious silk. Even though silk is on the high end of the price scale, this material gives area rugs a lovely luster. Often, rug makers combine silk with wool to give rugs added durability. If silk is out of your reach, viscose achieves a similar look for less money.

Area Rugs for the Living Room
Safavieh Florida Shag Collection SG456

Synthetic Fibers

Polyester, polypropylene and nylon make up the range of synthetic fibers used in area rugs. Since polyester is well-adept and holding dye, it can give a rug vibrancy, and it’s easy to clean. Like polyester, nylon is not difficult to maintain. Plus, nylon makes a rug shiny, and it holds up well against wear and tear.

Finally, there is the number one synthetic fiber used in rug manufacturing – polypropylene. This material is a popular choice among consumers because it’s less likely to sustain damage from stains and water. These benefits make polypropylene rugs ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

Weaves

The type of fiber used to create an area rug is not the only factor that contributes to a rug’s appearance and feel. The way a rug is weaved is also important. For the sake of clarity, you can categorize an area rug as a pile or a flat rug. Some rugs are fashioned by hand while others are created by a machine.

Many techniques are used to make pile rugs. Tufted rugs involve looping yarn through the rug’s backing and shearing the yarn to create a smooth surface. Like tufted rugs, hooked area rugs also involve looping the yarn; however, the loops are left intact.

Best Area Rugs

There are also knotted rugs. The yarn used to make these rugs is knotted around the warps and wefts, which are respectively the thread of a rug that goes lengthwise and the thread that goes crosswise.

As you may have deduced, flat rugs do not have a pile. For flat woven rugs, the warp is used for stability while the weft is used to create the rug’s design. There are also braided rugs, which are simply yarn strips sewn to one another to create a shape.

Measuring for the Right Rug Size Video (By Kin)


Pile Height

If you’re leaning toward a pile rug, it’s important to take note of the pile’s height. High-pile area rugs are plush, cozy and comfortable. However, they are more likely to become crushed by heavy furniture, and they are harder to keep clean. On the other hand, lower pile rugs are easier to maintain, and they offer more durability.

FAQs

What’s the Best Way to Coordinate an Area Rug With the Room?

Choosing an area rug design is the most difficult part of rug shopping because there are multiple ways to approach your decision-making depending on the look and mood you are trying to create. If you want to brighten up neutral-colored walls, go for a rich-colored or patterned area rug to make a nice contrast. On the other hand, keep the rug’s color subdued if there are already bold pieces in the room.

You can also go the complimentary route by matching the rug’s color to a less prominent color in the room, such as those Merlot red stripes on a throw pillow or the mint green on a gauzy curtain. Matching colors will unify the space. To achieve an ethereal look in a beige, cream or white room, find an area rug with a similar tone.

Safavieh

How Should I Configure the Furniture Layout?

Before you can determine the ideal size rug for the room, you have to take into account the furniture that’s already in that room. Specifically, you need to plan the furniture’s placement. In a living room, there are three main ways to place furniture with a rug – all legs off, all legs on or only the front legs on the area rug.

However, stick to a dining room rug that is big enough to accommodate all chairs when pushed in and pulled out from the table. For bedrooms, every leg of the bed should be off or on the area rug. Other pieces of furniture can be placed off, on or partially on the rug. As far as hallways, foyers, kitchens and bathrooms go, get a rug with a shape that matches that of the floor space.

What Size Area Rug Should I Buy?

The size you should choose directly depends on how much flooring you want to cover. If you’re not a fan of the worn laminate wood in your living room, shoot for a rug that sits about 2 feet away from each wall. However, if you want to show off that gorgeous Carrera marble tile, you need a smaller area rug. If you find yourself stuck between two sizes, always go for the bigger one.

Best Safavieh Rug

Are There Any Kid-Friendly Choices?

It may be hard to believe, but you can still have a stylish area rug in your house that can stand up to the abuse of young, spirited children. Low-pile is your best bet for high-traffic areas and any room in which your children spend a lot of time. It also helps to choose a material that can resist stains or is easy to clean. Synthetic, wool and cotton are all excellent choices.

Of course, it’s easier to hide stains on colorful or patterned rugs than on light-colored, monochrome ones. You should also invest in a rug pad. Usually made of latex or other synthetic material, rug pads come in an array of thicknesses. They prevent the rug from slipping and becoming a hazard, and these pads also reduce wear and tear on the rug while offering extra cushion under your feet.

What Type of Rug Should Pet Owners Buy?

In many respects, pets are like children – They both have the potential to wreak havoc on a home. This means that many of the same rug-selection guidelines that apply to children also apply to cats and dogs. Go for deep, rich or bold colors.

Additionally, area rugs with stripes or small patterns are great at concealing spots, and it’s easier to remove air from low-pile rugs as opposed to plush varieties. In terms of resistance against the stains and moisture that originate from animal vomit and urine, synthetic material is the way to go.

How Do I Clean and Care for an Area Rug?

From vacuuming to washing, area rugs require regular care to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. To vacuum an area rug without tearing the fibers, only use the vacuum’s attachments or a vacuum without a rolling brush. Spring for a trip to the cleaners once per year to wash the rug. In between professional cleanings, dab and spot-clean spills.

Safavieh Retro Collection RET2138
Safavieh Retro Collection RET2138

When you purchase a brand-new area rug, it may have creases. Over time, the creases should release, but you can hasten the process by rolling it in the opposite direction of the crease. Foot traffic and sunlight can wash out a rug’s color. Try to place it somewhere out of the sunlight’s direct path through your windows and be sure to rotate the rug on a yearly basis.

What’s the Best Way to Store an Area Rug?

If you’re packing for a move or you want to switch the rug out with one that gives a nod to a particular season or holiday, you’ll need to put your area rug in storage. However, you shouldn’t just carelessly toss it in a closet. Before you pack it away, send the rug to the dry cleaner, so dust, dirt and dander won’t settle into the fibers while in storage.

After your rug is spic and span, roll the rug with the pile facing inward. While your first instinct may be to tightly wrap the rug in clear plastic, this covering may inadvertently trap moisture, causing mold and mildew to grow on the rug. Instead, opt for a wrapping of brown postal paper.

Safavieh Rug Guide
Safavieh Retro Collection RET2138

Area Rug | Recommended



If you have any questions or comments, please add them below in the comment section. Similarly, please let us know if you spot any mistakes or omissions. Thanks!


Subscribe to Brasq Deals

* indicates required

Last Update: 2024-03-27 | Affiliate links/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About the author

Hi I’m Alex, founder of HouseholdMe.com and I’d like to say thank you for dropping by. Like most of you, the first thing I look at before buying something online is reviews or buying guides. By reading what other people say will help me gauge whether or not a product is good or not.  I am trying to help people find answers, solve problems, and get inspired.

Leave a Comment