Choosing Fabulous Accessories for Kitchens, Lounges and Bedrooms

Rugs are a very good way to add warmth and character to a room. There are important things to consider when choosing a rug. Follow these simple tips to choose the right one for your home.

Laying rugs in your home is one of the best ways to bring color and character into a room. This is especially important if you have a spacious room with a large expanse of floor. Wood, laminate and particularly slate or granite can be very cold to walk on. Not only can rugs add warmth, but they also feel great underfoot. There is a huge choice of styles available, from sophisticated and contemporary to colorful and ethnic. Cheaper than a fitted carpet, they are a cost-effective way of updating the look of a room without breaking the budget. If you decide later that you don't like the color or style, you haven't wasted as much money. Easy to relocate, rugs can be moved to whichever room you happen to need them in. So, what else do you need to consider?

Location, location, location

There are no limits to the type of room you can put a rug in. They will bring color to a living room and a luxurious feel to a bedroom. Alternatively, add a cozy touch to the heart of the home with kitchen rugs. You can even use them in bathrooms and conservatories. But each room will require a different type of rug, so think about where your piece will be used before you buy.

Which material is best?

Rugs are available in a variety of materials, so choose the right one for your location. Wool and nylon are soft and warm underfoot but may be affected by humidity and are less practical for high traffic areas. Polypropylene or vinyl are practical choices for kitchen rugs as they are very hardwearing and more stain-resistant. A thick pile will feel more sumptuous, but a shorter pile will trap less dirt and maybe a better option if you have children or pets. If the rug is to be used in a very high traffic area, durable, resilient material is best.

Safety first

Wherever you use your rug, it is bound to get a little dirty at some stage. Some rugs are dry-cleaned only, which may become expensive if they need cleaning often. A kitchen rug is likely to end up needing regular washing to maintain good hygiene, so choose one that is simple to wash and quick to dry. It is also vital to make sure the material on the reverse of the rug is appropriate and safe. If you are placing your rug on a polished or uncarpeted floor, it must either have a non-slip backing or you will need to attach a rug pad to the reverse to avoid slippage.

Color considerations

One of the best things about rugs is that they can be used to inject a splash of color to a room, instantly giving it a fresh look. Darker rugs will not show as much dirt, ideal for areas where there may be grimy foot traffic. However, stains or spills will be harder to spot on a bright, patterned rug. Whichever you choose, it is certain to bring dramatic flair to the room.

Consider these key areas when selecting a rug and you can be sure that whatever you choose, it will add a welcoming, individual finishing touch to your home.

AUTHOR BIO

Kevin Maddox writes for a variety of interior and lifestyle websites and blogs. From living room to kitchen rugs to throws, she enjoys furnishing her home with an eclectic mix of pieces.