Braided Rug Buying Tips

Braided Rug Color Guide There are some key points to consider before purchasing braided rugs. Neutral colors are easiest matched to furniture. If the furniture colors are neutral, there is more freedom to explore bolder carpet hues. Or select braided rugs to complement paint and window treatments. A light-colored braided rug will open up the room and make it seem larger. Dark colors are cozy, and make rooms seem smaller.

Sizing Up Braided Rugs
Room-size braided rugs should expose 18 to 36 inches of floor around the rug's edge. Braided rugs placed under dining room tables should be 4 to 5 feet larger than the table's dimensions. Hallway runners should be 4 inches narrower and 18 to 24 inches shorter than the hallway. Purchase rectangular or oval braided rugs for oblong rooms. Round, square, and octagon-shaped room-size braided rugs are a focal point in square or round rooms.

Braided Rug Fabric Tips
Select braided rug fabrics according to traffic areas, lifestyles, and personal preference. Wool is exceptionally durable and luxurious. Blends of wool and silk offer bold hues. Chenille or chenille-and-wool braided rugs are exquisitely soft. Natural cotton fibers make resilient braided rugs. Cotton/nylon blends are softer than wool, but less durable. Synthetic and man-made fibers are color-fast and resist mold and mildew, but are not as durable as wool and cotton.

Braided Rug Maintenance Tips
To get the most from your braided rug, reverse and/or rotate for even wear. Braided rugs are assembled with strong threads; if threads break, repair immediately by using a whipstitch. Immediately clean spills with a damp cloth. Wet a cotton cloth and blot the rug. If color fades on the cloth, colors may fade during cleaning. Non-skid pads will reduce wear and keep the underneath of the braided rug clean. Vacuum braided rugs regularly; shaking or beating can damage fabrics and threads.