Choosing the Right Rug for Your Home

ScatterMats Guide: Choosing the Right Rug for Your Home

Selecting the perfect rug is more than choosing a pretty pattern — it’s about size, fiber type, construction, and placement. This guide will help you find rugs and runners that suit your space, style, and lifestyle.

1. Rug Sizes: What Works Where

Rugs come in standard sizes, mostly rectangular, though round options and runners are also available. Use these sizes as a starting point and always measure your room and furniture first.

Size Recommended Use
50×80 cm Small mats for bathrooms, kitchens, or entryways
80×150 cm Larger mats for hallways or wider kitchens
120×170 cm Under coffee tables or office chairs in small spaces
160×230 cm Popular for living rooms or family areas with a wide selection of designs
190×290 cm For larger lounges or under dining tables to cover more floor space
240×330 cm Big areas like open-plan lounges; fewer style options
300×400 cm Rare, luxurious rugs for very large spaces, ideal under full dining sets

Pro tip: Rugs should complement your furniture. For sofas and chairs, place at least the front legs on the rug for a cohesive look.

2. Hallway Runners: Custom and Flexible

Hallway runners can come in finished lengths or continuous rolls that can be cut to suit your hallway.

  • Widths: Typically 67–80 cm, with limited options up to 100–120 cm

  • Lengths: Finished runners up to 5 m; continuous rolls up to 30 m

  • Customization: Some rolls can be overlocked in your preferred colour and coordinated with matching room rugs

Check our Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Hall Runners for tips on measuring and cutting the perfect runner.

3. How Can I Tell If a Rug Is Good Quality?

Rug quality depends on fiber type, pile density, weaving, and construction. Machine-made rugs usually have a more even fiber distribution, helping them last longer, while hand-made rugs may have slight variations.

Although there is no official industry standard, fiber density is a helpful guide for durability. Rugs with more fibers per square metre typically hold their shape, resist flattening, and withstand heavy use better.

Rug Quality by Fiber Density

Rug Quality Approximate Fiber Density Durability Insight
Very Low ~250,000 fibers/m² Best for decorative or low-traffic areas; may flatten quickly
Low–Medium 250,000–400,000 fibers/m² Suitable for light to moderate foot traffic
Medium–Good 400,000–600,000 fibers/m² Good balance of comfort and durability for living spaces
Good–High 600,000–800,000 fibers/m² Durable; ideal for family rooms or busy areas
High 800,000–1,000,000 fibers/m² Long-lasting; withstands heavy use with minimal flattening
Very High 1,000,000–2,000,000 fibers/m² Extremely resilient; perfect for high-traffic or premium investment rugs

Tip: Consider density along with fiber type, pile height, and intended room usage to select a rug that lasts.

4. Rug Fibers and Their Uses

Fiber Benefits Considerations
Wool Natural, durable, retains shape and colour Can shed; higher price; needs regular care
Heat-Set Polypropylene Hard-wearing, stain- and moisture-resistant Synthetic feel; less soft than wool
Polyester Vivid colours, soft, fade-resistant Can flatten in high-traffic zones
Acrylic Wool-like texture, soft May shed or lose shape over time
Viscose / Rayon Silky, decorative, lightweight Best for low-traffic areas
Flat-Weave Easy to clean, very durable Less soft; not ideal for lounging
Shaggy Comfortable, hides dirt Requires occasional professional cleaning

Tip: Match fiber choice to room activity, traffic, and your household cleaning routine.

5. Caring for Your Rug

  • Vacuum regularly; avoid power bristle mode on shag rugs

  • Schedule professional cleaning every 6–12 months for woven or delicate rugs

  • Spot clean using mild wool detergent or vinegar solution; test a hidden area first

  • Protect your rug with products like Rug Magic Spot Cleaner or Rug Guard Protector Spray

6. Storing Rugs

  • Roll loosely, ideally face down, to protect patterns

  • Cover with breathable fabric or plastic canvas for long-term storage

  • Avoid folding or using as padding for other items

7. Quick Rug Shopping Checklist

  1. Measure your room and furniture layout

  2. Determine the rug’s main purpose (comfort, aesthetics, traffic)

  3. Choose a size that balances space and furniture

  4. Select a fiber suitable for your lifestyle and room use

  5. Consider pile height and weave for comfort and durability

  6. Pick patterns and colours that complement your décor

  7. Decide if a non-slip rug pad is needed

  8. Check maintenance requirements for your chosen material

  9. Use painter’s tape to outline the rug footprint before purchasing

8. FAQ

Q: Can rugs prevent slipping on hard floors?
A: Yes! Non-slip backing or a rug pad helps keep rugs secure in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.

Q: Which rugs suit high-traffic areas?
A: Flat-weave or low-pile rugs are best for dining rooms, offices, or busy households.

Q: Can shag rugs work in living areas?
A: Absolutely. They’re soft, cozy, and hide dirt, but occasional professional cleaning is recommended.

Q: How do I match a runner with a room-size rug?
A: Choose the same pattern or colour from a continuous roll and cut to your hallway length.