18 different types of rugs and the best ways to use them

Rugs are versatile furnishings that bring a lot of benefits to a home and living space. They can add warmth and comfort, especially during the winter months. They can reduce noise and protect your flooring. They can also enhance your decor and styling in very unique ways and the more you learn about the types of rugs that exist, the more you’ll see their potential.

Bamboo rugs are a unique and versatile home decor option that can add texture and warmth to any space. Not only are they visually appealing and eco-friendly, but they are also durable and easy to care for. This makes them ideal for bathrooms and high-traffic areas like hallways. They can even be used as outdoor rugs on decks and patios. Many people envision serenity and peace when they see a bamboo rug and the natural quality of this material can elevate a space. Choose natural tones or brighter, more vivid colours to bring a pop of freshness to the space.

Cotton rugs are an excellent addition to any home and come in a variety of different sizes, shapes, and colours to suit your preference. Cotton is renowned as an excellent rug material and they are easy to clean and durable, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. Common ways to use a cotton rug include layering it over a larger area rug, placing it under a coffee table, or using it to add warmth and texture to a bedroom. Due to their versatility, many like to experiment and have fun with different placements and arrangements, as a way to transform a room and showcase a bit of creativity.

Cowhide rugs are made from natural and durable cowhide, which not only adds a touch of rustic charm but also provides warmth and comfort to your living space. One of the best things about cowhide rugs is their versatility; they can be used in many different ways throughout the home. In the living room, they can be placed in front of a cosy fireplace for added warmth and texture, while in the bedroom they can be placed beside the bed for a soft landing spot for your feet in the morning. They also make a great statement piece in a hallway or entryway, inviting your guests into your home with a touch of sophistication.

Faux fur rugs are luxurious furnishings that are cruelty-free while providing softness and warmth. When styling with faux fur rugs, there are plenty of options to consider. For instance, placing them in the living room can give your space an inviting and cosy feel, while adding one to your bedroom can make it feel like a lavish retreat. Faux fur rugs also come in a variety of styles, from traditional shag to modern geometric designs, making them versatile for any interior aesthetic. Overall, incorporating faux fur for a floor rug into your home decor is a tasteful way to add a touch of elegance and comfort.

Related article: 9 fantastic floor rugs for your home

Flat weave rugs (sometimes known as flat woven area rugs) are becoming increasingly popular in contemporary decor. These types of rugs are hand-woven (sometimes referred to as woven or braided rugs), which means that they are created by interlacing the warp and weft fibres over and under each other. Dhurrie rugs and Kilim rugs are good examples of flat weave rugs but there are others both traditional and modern alike. One of the best ways to use a flat weave rug is to layer it over a larger, plush carpet for added texture and depth in a room. Additionally, their flat and non-bulky profile makes them perfect for small spaces or apartments. Handmade rugs like these make a room that much more personal and intimate and with a range of designs and colours available, finding a flat weave rug that complements your decor has never been easier.

Geometric rugs are an excellent way to add a touch of sophistication to any home interior. These rugs are characterised by their intricate designs, bold colours, and sharp lines, making them a great choice for homeowners who want to add a contemporary edge to their living space. The key to using geometric rugs in the home is to incorporate them subtly into your décor. For example, if your living room features neutral tones, you might opt for a rug with geometric patterns in a similar colour palette. Alternatively, you might choose to use a more boldly patterned area rug as a statement piece in a room that is otherwise quite minimal. In any case, geometric rugs are a great choice for anyone looking to add a modern touch to their home.

Jute rugs provide both style and functionality and their natural texture and neutral tones make them a versatile choice for any room. These rugs work particularly well in spaces with a more organic aesthetic or those with lots of natural light, bringing out their warm and cosy qualities. Not only do they look great, but they are also durable and easy to care for, making them ideal for entryways or living rooms. Another plus is that jute is an eco-friendly and sustainable material, making it a responsible choice for the environmentally conscious.

Microfibre rugs, sometimes called synthetic fibre rugs, are a game-changer when it comes to keeping your floors clean and your home looking its best. These versatile mats are made with ultra-fine synthetic fibres that are designed to trap dirt, dust, and debris, making them an excellent choice for entryways and they are often also used as hallway runners. But their usefulness doesn't stop there. Microfibre rugs are also great underfoot when you're working out, practising yoga, or doing other activities that require a little extra cushioning. Plus, they're easy to clean, so you can keep them looking and smelling fresh with minimal effort.

The spirit of a Persian rug is nature, emotion, and history - themes and feelings you'll evoke when you use this classic type of rug in your home. An authentic Persian rug is considered one of the finest types of hand-knotted rugs in the world and is usually made from high-quality wool, silk, or cotton, giving it a unique texture and durability. Like most styles of Oriental rugs, they are great for living room spaces as they're so decorative. They also have a natural timeless quality having stood the test of time for thousands of years.

Polypropylene rugs are synthetic rugs that are durable, and resistant to stains, water, and fading. This makes them ideal for places like the living room and in particular, kitchens and dining rooms where accidental spills can occur. Additionally, their low-maintenance nature means they are easy to clean and take care of, making them perfect for busy households. But they are not just functional - these modern rugs come in a range of colours, patterns, and textures, allowing you to express your personal style. Whether you choose a bold geometric print or a soothing solid hue you'll be able to easily use these to add a visual point of interest.

Shag rugs, with their lush texture and cosy feel, can add a touch of luxury and warmth to any home. These rugs can be used in various ways to create unique and stylish living spaces. Place a shag rug under a coffee table in the living room to create a cosy seating area, or use one in a bedroom to add a soft and inviting layer underfoot. Shag rugs are also perfect for creating a chic reading nook in a home office or den. With their versatile design and soft texture, shag rugs can help to create a welcoming and relaxing ambience in any room of the house.

The pinnacle of organic luxury in rug styles is arguably sheepskin rugs. These types of rugs have a gorgeous appearance and are extremely durable. They also offer a variety of health advantages. Sheepskin rugs can wick moisture, they're naturally cushioned without the need for a rug pad, and they can even help regulate your body temperature. So if you make it a habit of rolling around on the floor or simply enjoy sitting comfortably with your children or pets, then this could be your best option.

Silk rugs are surprisingly durable compared to other fibres, and they have natural associations with luxury and comfort. It's an extendable fibre, meaning it's easy to shape and they have a considerable lifespan. Even with pets in the home, a silk rug could live for up to 30 years. They're effortless to clean and look sumptuous and expensive. While they can be more costly than wool in some cases, the quality and elegance really shine through. They pair nicely plush throw pillows or a beautiful vase, creating a cohesive and polished look.

Wool rugs are versatile and luxurious adding warmth, texture and comfort to any space, from the living room to the bedroom. They are also naturally hypoallergenic and durable, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas. When it comes to styling wool rugs in the home, the possibilities are endless. They can be layered over carpets or large area rugs, used to define separate living spaces or simply placed as a focal point in the room. Match them with neutral tones for a classic look or daring colours for a bold statement. Choosing a wool rug is an investment that will pay off in comfort and style for years to come.

Related article: How to choose a perfect floor rug for your home

15. Outdoor Rugs

Outdoor rugs are a fantastic choice for extending the comfort of your home to the outside world. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials such as polypropylene or recycled plastics, they are designed to withstand the elements while adding a touch of style to your patio, deck, or porch. The best way to use outdoor rugs is to create a defined seating or dining area outdoors, giving these spaces the same attention to detail as your indoor rooms. With a variety of patterns and colours available, they can complement any outdoor furniture set and are easy to clean, ensuring that your outdoor living space remains welcoming and stylish.

Sisal rugs, made from the fibres of the Agave sisalana plant, are all about adding a rustic yet sophisticated texture to your living spaces. These rugs are particularly suited for areas in the home that receive high foot traffic due to their durability and coarse texture. A sisal rug can provide a natural and earthy feel to a room, often used in living rooms, dining areas, or offices. They can be layered with softer rugs for added comfort underfoot, or used alone for a minimalist aesthetic. Their natural tones are easy to match with a variety of colour schemes, and they bring an organic, grounding element to any interior design.

Transitional rugs are the perfect middle ground between traditional and contemporary styles. These rugs often feature updated classic motifs or patterns with a modern twist, using a muted colour palette that can fit in with a wide range of décor styles. They can be used to add a touch of elegance to a modern space without it feeling too dated, or to introduce a contemporary edge to a more traditional room. In practice, transitional rugs are versatile enough to be used in any room, from the bedroom to the living room, and are particularly effective at tying together disparate elements of a room's décor.

Oriental rugs are hand-knotted rugs with intricate designs and rich histories, often passed down through generations. These rugs are prized for their craftsmanship and detailed patterns. Best used as the centrepiece in a living room, dining room, or foyer, they can set the tone for the entire space. Oriental rugs are typically made from wool or silk, and their dense pile can withstand high traffic while retaining their beauty. When styling with Oriental rugs, it's essential to let the rug speak for itself and keep other furnishings relatively simple, allowing the rug's artistry to shine.

As you can see, there are many different types of rugs to consider from wool rugs and silk rugs to Persian rugs and geometric rugs. Each brings its own unique characteristics that you can use in practical and stylish ways. Rugs are an investment so it's important to make thoughtful decisions before purchasing. By comprehensively understanding the different types of rugs and their qualities you'll be able to make a choice that delivers in more ways than one.

Banner image: Boom Town Rug from Lara Scolari Art