Inexpensive Area Rugs

Finding a good quality, inexpensive area rug isn’t an easy task. Often the price reflects the quality of construction and materials.

Don't give up too quickly. There are a few excellent options from reputable dealers that will make your rooms look like you spent thousands, while your bank account remains in tact - maximum impact for minimum cost.

Whether your floors are wood, concrete, or even carpet, an area rug is one of the simplest ways to add punch to your decor. A rug not only defines a space, it also adds color and contrast. The right piece can even be the focal point of your interior design scheme. It all comes down to research and patience.

Just because a rug is inexpensive, doesn’t mean that it will fall apart within the first two weeks. Less pricey versions are usually made from synthetic materials such as nylon, olefin and polypropyline instead of wool or silk. They are also machine made instead of handmade.

Within these parameters, you can still find plenty of well-made options that will last many years, particularly if you are diligent about keeping the rug clean and well maintained.

• Look for an area rug made from synthetic fibers, which are durable, and sometimes even water- and UV-resistant.
• Ensure that the sides are bound and aren’t unraveling.
• Run your hands across the top of the rug. Make sure the fibers aren’t loose or easily pulled out.
• If you can, ask about the rug’s ‘line count.’ This is the knots per square inch, and one of the key indicators of quality.

• Nylon:
  • Easy to maintain and withstands stains
  • Works well in high traffic areas like the front hall, living room, dining room or kids rooms
• Polypropylene/olefin:
  • Most stain-resistant of all the synthetic fibers

  • Very durable and will work wonderfully in high traffic areas
• Cotton rugs:

  • Often very inexpensive

  • Tend to get dirty and wear through more quickly

  • Use in low traffic areas, such as your bedroom
• Natural plant fibers:

  • Fantastic for homeowners
 who love green design
  • Jute is softest but will fade in direct sunlight and won’t stand up to moisture

  • Sisal is strongest and more durable material. Will stand up to lots of wear and tear


One of the most important purchases to make with any rug, and particularly with an inexpensive area rug, is a rug pad. While a pad will initially help keep the rug in position, it also helps reduce wear and tear, absorbs noise, and protects the colors from bleeding into a carpet or onto a wood floor.

Here are a few great resources for contemporary area rugs that will provide high style for a low price.

• West Elm
• CB2
• Flor
• Crate & Barrel
• Urban Outfitters

You don’t always have to pay full price or purchase a brand new rug to find a quality piece for your room. Look for rugs in unexpected places such as:

• Sales at local carpet stores, which often have a large selection of area rugs
• Home design consignment stores
• Garage sales
• Second hand stores (but pay very close attention to the cleanliness of the rug)
• Home Depot, Lowe’s, or any other large home improvement store. You will be pleasantly surprised at the array of designs they carry.

One final word of note: Do not buy a rug simply because it is inexpensive. Find one that works well with your interior design scheme. Rugs that are overly trendy in color or pattern will quickly lose their luster, and then you will find yourself back in the same predicament a few years later. When in doubt, go for something neutral and simple.

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