The perfect rug for your living room

Choosing the perfect rug for your living room is a great way to tie your interior design together. Your home will look professionally curated and stylish when you add a beautiful rug into the mix. However, finding quality rugs for your living room can be a challenge. Here are some key factors to consider:

Machine-made vs. Handmade

The difference between machine-made and handmade rugs lies in the quality. Handmade rugs typically last longer, with more effort put into ensuring each element is perfect. Artisans create more intricate designs on handmade rugs compared to computer-controlled machines. While machine-made rugs are often cheaper, they may not have the longevity of handmade ones.

Attention to Detail

Handmade rugs usually feature more intricate details in their designs. It's easier to weave desired patterns using hands rather than machines. A high level of detail in a rug is a sign of quality, indicating that a skilled artisan crafted it, likely ensuring its durability over a lifetime.

Synthetic vs. Natural Materials

The material of your rug will impact how you interact with it. For example, synthetic fibers don't hold onto as much dirt, so you may need to clean nylon and polyester rugs more frequently. Additionally, they can discolor or yellow from stains if not cleaned regularly.

Natural materials are pricier but feel and look better in a living room setting. Common materials for rugs include:

- Wool: a breathable fabric that retains color well. It's durable and ideal for high-traffic areas.

- Cotton: another durable material, these rugs are usually woven. They can be machine-washed, though they may brown over time.

- Silk: as the most expensive material, it's lightweight, beautiful, and luxurious. The material can stretch, but it's sensitive to chemicals, so be cautious when cleaning.

Knots Per Square Inch (KPSI)

When selecting a high-quality rug, check the number of knots per square inch (KPSI). Similar to thread count on sheets, this is the amount of fibers a master used to create the rug. Besides knot count, it speaks to the density and strength of the piece. A higher knot count indicates that your rug is more likely to withstand daily wear and tear and long-term use.

While choosing a gray rug for your living room, it's tempting to go with the first one you like. However, if you want a durable rug that will last the lifetime of your home, look for one made from materials suited to your lifestyle and changing interior. The best ways to identify quality rugs for your living room are paying attention to details and selecting sturdy materials that suit your needs.