Area rugs do more than soften your floors—they set the tone for your entire room. Whether you want a cozy living room rug, a durable option for a high-traffic area, or a decorative accent rug, choosing the right rug depends on its material, pattern, weaving technique, and intended use.

Baker Bros—Arizona’s largest flooring retailer—offers the widest selection of area rugs in the state, including hand-knotted rugs, synthetic fibers, natural fibers, flatweave rugs, and traditional designs with intricate patterns. With over 80 years in the industry, Baker Bros helps homeowners find rugs that blend both style and performance.

This guide breaks down the most common types of area rugs, their features, and how to choose the right rug for your home.

Key Takeaways

• Different rug materials—synthetic fibers, wool, jute, cotton—offer different levels of durability and maintenance.
  
• Weaving technique plays a big role in how easy a rug is to clean and how long it lasts.
  
• Patterns and styles, from modern to traditional, help define the room's personality.
  
• High traffic areas require durable, easy-to-clean rugs like flatweave rugs or synthetic materials.
  
• Baker Bros carries a full range of rug styles, including accent rugs, hand-knotted rugs, tufted rugs, and more.

1. Wool Rugs

Wool rugs are one of the most popular types of area rugs thanks to their softness, resilience, and natural durability. Wool cotton blends are common too, providing added softness and flexibility.

Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and cozy spaces.

Features:

• Naturally stain-resistant
• Soft underfoot
• Long lasting
• Excellent for cooler climates

Wool rugs often feature traditional patterns or intricate patterns, making them perfect for anchoring a room’s design.

2. Synthetic Fiber Rugs (Polypropylene, Polyester, Nylon)

Synthetic fibers offer exceptional versatility, making them among the easiest to clean rug styles.

Best for: High traffic areas, dining rooms, hallways, homes with pets or kids.

Features:

• Budget friendly
• Durable and stain-resistant
• Available in countless rug styles
• Mimic natural fibers at a lower cost

These rugs are made from synthetic materials designed to resist moisture and wear, making them ideal for busy households.

3. Jute & Sisal Rugs (Natural Fibers)

Jute and sisal rugs bring a warm, organic look to spaces. These natural fibers are popular in modern and coastal designs.

Best for: Entryways, living rooms, and under dining tables (depending on weave).

Features:

• Eco-friendly
• Neutral colors that complement any décor
• Textured feel

Because they absorb moisture, jute and sisal rugs are not ideal for spills or damp environments.

4. Cotton Rugs

Cotton rugs are lightweight, affordable, and perfect as accent rugs.

Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, kids' rooms, casual spaces.

Features:

• Easy to clean
• Soft and flexible
• Often machine washable

Cotton rugs come in a variety of rug styles, including striped, boho, and modern prints.

5. Hand Knotted Rugs

Hand-knotted rugs are among the most luxurious types of area rugs available. Each piece is crafted by artisans who tie thousands of individual knots.

Best for: Living rooms, formal spaces, long-term investments.

Features:

• Exceptional quality
• Incredible durability
• Distinctive intricate patterns
• Often become heirlooms

Hand-knot rugs hold their value and offer unmatched artistry.

6. Tufted Rugs

Tufted rugs are made by punching yarn into a canvas base, then finishing with a backing. This weaving technique makes tufted rugs more affordable than hand-knotted options.

Best for: Bedrooms, guest rooms, and low-to-moderate-traffic areas..

Features:

• Plush texture
• Quick to manufacture
• Wide variety of designs

Tufted rugs tend to shed initially but become softer with time.

7. Flatweave Rugs

Flatweave rugs—including kilims and dhurries—have no pile, making them lightweight and reversible.

Best for: High traffic areas, dining rooms, and kitchens.

Features:

• Very easy to clean
• Great for layering
• Strong patterns and colors
• Ideal for modern or global-inspired décor

Because they’re thin and flexible, flatweave rugs are excellent under furniture.

8. Shag Rugs

Shag rugs offer a deep, luxurious pile that adds warmth to any space.

Best for: Bedrooms, lounge spaces, cozy corners.

Features:

• Thick, plush texture
• Comfortable underfoot
• Adds softness and dimension to a room

Shag rugs require more maintenance but add a unique tactile element to your home.

9. Traditional Pattern Rugs

These rugs feature ornate motifs, medallions, and borders inspired by Persian, Oriental, and vintage designs.

Best for: Living rooms, dining rooms, entryways.

Features:

• Intricate patterns that elevate décor
• Rich colors and detailed weaving
• Timeless aesthetic

Baker Bros offers a wide selection of traditional rugs perfect for adding elegance to any home.

10. Modern & Contemporary Rugs

Contemporary rugs lean into geometric, minimalist, and abstract designs.

Best for: Open floor plans, modern homes, and living rooms.

Features:

• Clean lines and bold styling
• Works well with neutral furniture
• Often available in synthetic fibers for durability

These rugs help define space while complementing modern architecture and interior design.

How to Choose the Right Area Rug for Your Space

1. Match material to location

• High traffic area → synthetic fibers, flatweave
• Cozy rooms → wool cotton blends, shag
• Budget-friendly spaces → cotton or synthetic materials
• Eco-friendly homes → jute sisal, natural fiber

2. Consider maintenance needs

If you want a rug that’s easier to clean, choose nylon, polyester, or polypropylene.

3. Pick the right size

A living room rug should anchor the furniture, while accent rugs can highlight smaller spaces.

4. Choose rug styles that match your décor

Traditional, modern, boho, or minimalist—your rug should enhance the overall design.

FAQs

Q: What is the best rug for high-traffic areas?
A: Synthetic fiber rugs (polypropylene, nylon) and flatweave rugs are ideal for high-traffic areas due to their durability and easy maintenance.

Q: What type of rug is best for a living room?
A: Wool rugs are great for living rooms, offering durability and style. Synthetic fiber rugs are also a practical choice for families with pets.

Q: Are jute and sisal rugs pet-friendly?
A: Jute and sisal rugs are not ideal for homes with pets, as they absorb moisture and can stain easily.

Q: What’s the difference between tufted and hand-knotted rugs?
A: Tufted rugs are quicker to make and more affordable, while hand-knotted rugs are more durable, intricate, and valuable.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the different types of area rugs helps you choose a rug that fits both your lifestyle and your home’s interior design. From natural fibers like wool, cotton, jute, and sisal to synthetic fibers that are easier to clean, each material offers its own benefits. Weaving techniques such as tufted, flatweave, and hand-knotted rugs also affect durability and style. Whether you need a living room rug, an accent rug, or something durable for a high-traffic area, Baker Bros offers Arizona’s largest selection, backed by expert guidance and decades of flooring experience.

Explore Baker Bros’ extensive area rug collection in one of our showrooms and discover a style made for your space.