When it comes to choosing an area rug, 5 by 7 feet is a golden ratio. It's large enough to redefine a space, yet small enough to avoid dominating your field of view.
With so many types of area rugs out there, which you choose depends on a number of factors. Your taste and your decor matter most, but you'll also want to consider things like foot traffic, location and comfort.
For a solid 5-by-7-foot rug that looks good while standing up to lots of use, you can't go wrong with Persian Area Rugs 5-by-7-Foot Area Rug.
A rug that is 5 feet by 7 feet is a classic size. It owes its versatility to how well it accommodates furniture. In addition to framing the average dimensions of common decor, an area rug of this scale is great for insulation. The layer of thick fabric is not only soft underfoot, but also reduces noise and helps block drafts.
Area rugs bring people together. As central floor features, they anchor your decor and help define the space. Place your area rug in any large space where you want to link pieces of furniture, designate a gathering space or add color.
Area rugs create a large swath of color and texture in your room. Make sure there's equal space around at least two edges and that it isn't butting up against the wall. You also want to make sure it won't create an awkward pathway, causing guests to walk with one foot on and one foot off the carpet.
One common misconception is that you shouldn't place a rug under furniture. But you don't have to center an area rug perfectly for it to be effective. Tucking edges under furniture is a great way to create a sense of unity among disparate features.
Whether you go with a patterned rug or solid-colored rug will depend on your taste and design scheme.
A rug's material determines its durability and cost. Depending on where you plan on placing your carpet, you'll want to consider what it's woven from.
These days, most area rugs are synthetic, woven by machines on power looms. The fibers are pulled through a backing and glued into place, which is ultimately less durable than handwoven rugs.
If you want a quality, hand-woven rug, both flat-woven and hand-tufted rugs offer that heirloom aesthetic at a premium. These are more durable and each rug is unique. Flat-woven rugs have the added benefit of being reversible, so you can flip them to extend their lifespan.
Pile describes the length and density of your rug's fibers. A high pile, such as that of a shag carpet, has a luscious, thick texture. But because the strands are so long, they can shed. Low-pile rugs are more durable but can still feel soft. They also insulate well. Flat-woven rugs have zero pile. So they don't shed, but they also don't insulate well.
The cost of a 5-by-7-foot rug will depend on its material. Expect to pay $50-$200.
A. Most rugs, except for animal hides and silk, can be cleaned by hand. You'll need to first beat the dust out of the rug. Then, using carpet-cleaning shampoo, scrub the carpet down with a brush. Rinse with a hose or bucket and let dry. Be sure to test a small patch first in case the dyes run. You don't want to end up blanching the whole thing.
A. Another interior-design misconception is that your rugs shouldn't touch, and should in fact have ample space between them. But overlapping has a boho, shabby-chic vibe that can make the room feel more homey and ornate. Try to line it up so the corners overlap, rather than one long edge. But anything goes here and the point is to have fun with it.
Persian Area Rugs 5-by-7-Foot Area Rug
What you need to know: Persian and Oriental rugs are making a comeback, prized for their complex patterns and worn aesthetic.
What you’ll love: Available in nine different colorways, this is a versatile area rug for both warm and cool interiors. It's machine-woven with synthetic fibers, so it's both durable and stain-resistant. And the modest pile feels soft without shedding too much.
What you should consider: The glue that holds the fibers gives off a chemical smell that needs to air out for a few days.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Nourison Essentials Solid Contemporary 5-by-7-Foot Area Rug
What you need to know: With so many color options, this is a great solid-color area rug on a budget.
What you’ll love: With both heathered weaves that subtly mix in neutral tones and pure-color block options, this area rug has palatable colors to modern decors. It's made from polypropylene and has a low pile that's soft, but much closer to the profile of a flat-weave rug. This can be used both indoors and outdoors.
What you should consider: Because of the way it's rolled for shipping, some users had trouble getting it to lie flat.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Well Woven Chie Kuki Collection Ultra-Soft Two-Tone Long Floppy Pile Area Rug
What you need to know: This plush area rug decadently heaps long fibers atop one another for loads of texture.
What you’ll love: You have your choice of 12 hues from a contemporary, muted palette. The soft fibers are a mixture of long and short threads that produces a slight shimmer. And unlike many shag carpets, this one doesn't shed.
What you should consider: This carpet will be a little difficult to clean.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Karl Daum writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
