In the age of online everything, shopping for home decor has never been easier. And that includes harder-to-buy items like rugs. But how can you make sure that you’re getting a high-quality rug that will complement your room without seeing the rug in person? It’s totally doable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the steps on how to buy a rug online, from assessing quality to ensuring a perfect fit.
How can you tell if a rug is high quality when buying online?
Before clicking that “add to cart” button, it’s crucial to understand the signs of a high-quality rug. Here’s what to look for:
Material Matters
Learn about the different materials used in rug production, such as wool, jute, silk, and synthetic fibers. Natural fibers often indicate a higher quality rug, but not always—and the natural materials may not suit your lifestyle, anyway. You may want a synthetic material that’s easier to clean—like the machine-washable options from Ruggable.
Knot Density
A higher knot density generally indicates a better-quality rug.
Design and Patterns
Delve into the intricate world of rug designs and patterns. Understand the significance of motifs, colors, and weaving techniques in determining quality.
Edges and Fringes
Look closely at the finishing touches, like binding, serging, and fringes. Well-finished edges are indicative of a well-crafted rug.
How do you know what rug size fits your space?
Obviously, you’ll want your rug to look great with its surroundings. Here’s how to ensure a perfect fit:
Measure Your Space
Accurate measurements of your room are essential. Make sure to carefully measure the area where your rug will go, keeping in mind furniture placement and room proportions. Placing painter’s tape right on the floor where your rug will go can help you envision what size works best in your room.
Consider Room Layout
Think about how the rug will interact with your furniture. Determine whether you want all furniture legs on the rug or just the front legs.
Rug Size and Shape
Explore the different rug sizes and shapes available. The painter’s tape trick can help you discover how size and shape can influence the overall look and feel of your space. You might think you want a rectangular rug, only to find that a square is much more cohesive in your room.
What should you look for when buying a rug online?
Now that you understand what makes a rug high-quality and how to make sure it fits your space, let’s focus on the online shopping process itself.
Reputable Retailers
Identify trusted online rug retailers with a solid reputation for quality and customer service. Read reviews, check return policies, and assess your shipping options. Some of the rug retailers we shop from again and again include Rugs USA, Ruggable, West Elm, Serena & Lily, and Room & Board.
Detailed Product Descriptions
Scrutinize the product descriptions for details on material, size, design, and care instructions. Look for high-resolution images from various angles and zoom options so you can look closely at the finishings.
Customer Reviews
Customer feedback can provide valuable insights into the rug’s real-life appearance, durability, and quality. It’s not a deal-breaker if the site doesn’t offer reviews, but it’s a huge plus if they do. When available, pay attention to reviews from customers who purchased the same rug.
Samples and Swatches
If offered, request samples or swatches to feel the rug’s texture and see its colors in your own space before making a final decision.
Return Policy
Ensure the retailer offers a hassle-free return policy in case the rug doesn’t meet your expectations or fit your space as anticipated. Rugs can be bulky—and expensive—and you don’t want to be stuck with a style you don’t like because it’s too hard to ship back.
