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Rugs and Carpets Buying Guide (8 Expert Tips)

Rugs and carpets are essential elements of home décor. They add warmth, comfort, and character to every room.

The right rug can define a space, balance furniture, and even make a small room appear larger. Choosing one, however, is not always simple. Size, material, pile height, and design all play a role in how a rug looks and performs in your home.

At Ramsha Home, we have guided thousands of families in the UAE through these decisions for more than 30 years.

This rugs and carpet buying guide brings together our knowledge to help you pick the perfect rug with confidence.

8 Tips to buy the best rugs and carpets for your home decor

Tip 1: Measure the room and plan placement carefully

One of the most common mistakes we see is buying a rug that looks too small once placed at home. Always measure your room and mark the rug area with tape before making a purchase.

In living rooms, we suggest placing at least the front legs of sofas and chairs on the rug to tie the space together.

In dining rooms, make sure chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out. Proper measurement makes the rug look intentional rather than an afterthought.

Rug Size and Placement Guide

At Ramsha Home, customers often ask what rug size works best in different rooms. The right size depends on the furniture layout and the space you want to define.

Here is a simple guide we use in our store:

Room Recommended Rug Size Placement Advice
Living Room (small) 160 x 230 cm (5’ x 7’) Place under the coffee table with front legs of sofas and chairs on the rug. Works best in apartments and compact rooms.
Living Room (medium to large) 200 x 300 cm (6’7” x 9’10”) or 250 x 350 cm (8’2” x 11’5”) Place all main furniture legs on the rug for a complete look. Leave 30–60 cm of floor space between rug edge and wall.
Dining Room (4–6 chairs) 200 x 300 cm (6’7” x 9’10”) Place under the dining table with all chairs on the rug even when pulled out. Low pile rugs are easier for sliding chairs.
Dining Room (6–8 chairs) 250 x 350 cm (8’2” x 11’5”) Choose a rug that extends at least 60–70 cm beyond the table edge on all sides.
Bedroom (queen bed) 200 x 300 cm (6’7” x 9’10”) Place rug under the bed leaving about 60–80 cm visible on three sides for balance.
Bedroom (king bed) 250 x 350 cm (8’2” x 11’5”) or larger Place rug under the bed with extra width and length for a luxurious feel.
Hallway or entryway Runner: 60 x 200 cm (2’ x 6’) or longer Place centered in the hallway. Leave a gap of at least 10–15 cm on each side between rug and wall.
Small accent spaces 120 x 180 cm (4’ x 6’) Works well in reading nooks, under side tables, or as layering rugs for extra texture.

Tip 2: Choose the right material for your lifestyle

Not every rug works in every home. At Ramsha Home, we guide customers to match material with lifestyle. Wool is strong, warm, and naturally stain resistant, making it ideal for family rooms. Silk rugs look luxurious but suit formal rooms with less foot traffic.

For busy households with children or pets, synthetic rugs like polypropylene are easy to clean and highly practical. Choosing the right material ensures your rug looks good and performs well for years.

Tip 3: Understand rug construction before buying

We often explain to customers that construction affects durability and price. Hand knotted rugs, made knot by knot, last for decades and can even become heirlooms. Hand tufted rugs give a plush look at a lower cost, perfect for stylish but budget-friendly options. Machine made rugs are affordable and come in endless designs, making them great for quick home updates.

Before buying, ask how the rug is made and inspect the back to check quality.

Tip 4: Pay attention to knot density and yarn quality

For hand knotted rugs, knot density is a clear sign of craftsmanship. A higher knot count usually means more detail and a rug that lasts longer. But we always remind buyers that yarn quality and dyeing are just as important. A rug with fine knots but poor wool will not wear well.

At Ramsha Home, we use ARS color codes to ensure dye accuracy and test yarn quality before production. These details make a real difference in long term satisfaction.

Tip 5: Select a pile height that matches comfort and traffic

When helping customers in our store, we often ask where the rug will be used. For hallways and dining areas, we recommend low pile rugs because they handle heavy use and clean easily. 

For bedrooms or cozy lounges, high pile rugs feel soft underfoot and create warmth. A family with children and pets may prefer flat weave or short pile rugs to avoid dirt buildup. Choosing the right pile makes your rug both practical and comfortable.

Tip 6: Balance pattern and color with your room design

A rug can completely change how a room feels. Large patterns suit spacious rooms and add drama, while small or subtle patterns keep compact rooms from feeling busy. Bold colors can make a rug the star of the room, while neutral tones blend quietly with furniture.

We always suggest bringing fabric swatches or photos of your space so we can help match tones. At Ramsha Home, we offer over 6,500 color options, so finding the right match is never a problem.

Tip 7: Think ahead about cleaning and long term care

A rug is an investment, so it pays to plan for its care. We advise customers to ask about cleaning methods before buying. Wool rugs need gentle handling, while many synthetic rugs are easier to wash. Regular vacuuming, quick spill clean up, and rotating the rug can extend its life.

Some customers also use our custom care guides to maintain handmade rugs properly. Buying a rug without knowing how to care for it often leads to early wear.

Tip 8: Always use a rug pad and check guarantees

Many customers overlook rug pads, but they make a big difference. A pad prevents slipping, protects the floor, and gives the rug extra cushion. It also reduces wear on the fibers, helping your rug last longer.

When you buy from Ramsha Home, we explain warranty terms and after sale care so you know your investment is protected. A rug pad and a clear guarantee give you peace of mind and ensure your rug stays beautiful for years.

Common questions about rugs buying

What size rug should I buy for my living room?

Measure the seating area and choose a rug that fits either all furniture legs or at least the front legs of sofas and chairs.

We suggest leaving 30 to 60 centimeters of space between the rug and the walls to create balance. A correctly sized rug anchors the furniture, makes the space feel complete, and avoids the mistake of a rug looking too small.

Which rug material is best for pets and children?

Wool and polypropylene rugs are the best options for homes with children and pets. Wool is naturally strong and stain resistant, while polypropylene cleans easily and dries quickly. Both materials handle daily wear and spills better than silk or cotton.

For busy homes, we also recommend rugs with patterns because they hide stains and marks. Adding a rug pad helps prevent slipping and protects the floor.

How do I care for a wool rug at home?

Vacuum your wool rug regularly using suction only, without a rotating beater. Rotate it every few months to spread wear evenly. Blot spills with a clean cloth and use a mild wool safe cleaner. Do not rub stains because it can damage fibers.

For deep cleaning, always use a professional service familiar with wool rugs. With proper care, a wool rug can last for decades while maintaining its rich color and softness.

Can I use a rug in a dining area under the table?

Yes, you can place a rug under your dining table, but choose wisely. Make sure the rug is large enough so chairs remain fully on the rug even when pulled out. Flat weave or low pile rugs work best in dining rooms because they resist wear and make chair movement smooth.

So, pick a material that is easy to clean, such as wool or polypropylene, to handle food and drink spills.

What is the difference between hand knotted and hand tufted rugs?

Hand knotted rugs are made by tying each knot one by one, often taking months or even years to complete. They are very durable and show the same pattern on the back. Hand tufted rugs are made faster by punching yarn into a canvas backing.

They offer rich designs at lower prices but do not last as long as hand knotted rugs. If you want an heirloom rug, choose hand knotted. If you want style on a budget, hand tufted works well.

How do I choose a rug color that matches my room?

Start with your main furniture and wall colors. Choose a rug that either complements these tones or adds contrast for a bold statement. If your room already has many colors, go for a neutral rug to balance the look. In calm spaces like bedrooms, soft tones work best. In living rooms, a vibrant rug can become the centerpiece. Always check rug samples in natural light before making a final choice.

Final words

At Ramsha Home, we know a rug is more than just floor covering. It is a piece that connects the whole room and reflects your personal style. By choosing the right size, material, design, and care plan, you can enjoy beauty and comfort for many years. Visit Ramsha Home in Ajman China Mall or explore our online collection to find a rug that fits your home perfectly.

Find the perfect rugs and carpets for your needs at Ramsha Home.

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