Tips
Tips For Finding The Right Rug For Your Space
Style, From The Ground Up
The color, size and texture of the rug you choose can tie a room together or define a space. Coordinate with furniture and window coverings to create a room that makes you feel at home every time you walk in the door.
Casual or elegant, large or small, area rugs are a perfect - and portable - design solution. Group armchairs and a sofa on an area rug for intimate conversations, or place your furniture partly off the rug as a graceful transition from one part of the room to another.
Colors + Uses
A rug anchors a room. Depending on its color and texture, it can make a bold statement or blend quietly. As the foundation on which your decor is based, the color and style of your rug should echo the mood and furnishings of your room.
Consider these factors when choosing a rug:
Colors
Dark, rich colors create a cozy feeling and help define a more intimate space.
Lighter colors open up small spaces and, when coordinated with the wall colors, make a room appear larger.
Rugs with yellow, orange or red add warmth to rooms with indirect light, while cool blues and greens help create a calm atmosphere in sunny rooms.
Choosing A Rug
The pattern of your rug is a key consideration. Remember these guidelines when you're selecting one:
Geometric patterns can bring a modern flair to a traditional room; floral patterns can soften lines and lend grace to simple furnishings.
The scale of the pattern on your rug should balance with other patterns used throughout the room.
Rugs can also be used to define spaces. For example, placing a rug beneath a table and chairs is ideal for creating a smaller space within a larger area. Rugs can also unify the decor within a spacious room, providing transition to a surrounding area.
Once you have something in mind, you're ready to measure.
Measuring
Follow a few simple steps when adding a rug to your living area:
First, measure your space with a steel measuring tape. Don't rely on visual sizing; a 5 x 8' rug may seem large when hanging on display in a store, but it is too small to accommodate most sofas.
Make sure to consider the locations of vents and doors, as they may affect the placement of the rug.
To create a smaller, more intimate space with your rug, measure the length and width of the furnished area and subtract 24" from both measurements.
In the living room or family room, furniture should be placed entirely on or off the rug, with the exception of your sofa, which may be placed with its back legs on the floor if desired.
For a rug under a dining table and chairs, measure the table's length and width and add 54" to each measurement. This will provide 27" on all sides to allow space for the chairs, even when pulled away from the table.
Rugs, Pads, Care + Storage
Place a rug pad between your rug and the floor. It will prevent slippage and act as a buffer to minimize abrasion. This will extend the rug's life and protect your floors.
Vacuum or shake out rugs regularly. When vacuuming, pass over each area several times from different directions. Avoid high-powered vacuum attachments, which can pull threads away from the backing.
Rotate or reposition your rug every six months to avoid repetitive wear and to balance any fading from light.
Shedding is a normal trait for tufted rugs and diminishes over time. Proper vacuuming and rotation will help reduce shedding.
Blot spills with a clean, white cloth as soon as possible. Work from the outside edge inward to prevent the spill from spreading.
Do not dry-clean rugs. Harsh chemicals can damage the backing and cause the color to fade.
Contact Valley Rugs Customer Service for professional cleaning of area rugs.
