Rug Dos & Don’ts
Smart rug rules for a beautiful, long-lasting floor
Rugs can transform a room instantly—adding comfort, style, and atmosphere. But did you know that small missteps can shorten their life or make a space feel unbalanced? At Onlinetapijten, we’re passionate about helping you choose and care for rugs so they look great now and last for years.
This guide covers the essential “dos and don’ts” for selecting, placing, and maintaining rugs, with practical steps for everyday life in Belgium and beyond.
✅ DO: Measure and Match the Size
Grab a tape measure—don’t guess!
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Living room: rug should reach under the front legs of sofas and chairs
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Dining area: allow 60–70 cm beyond each side so chairs stay on the rug when pulled out
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Bedroom: extend at least 50 cm around the bed or use bedside runners
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Hallway/entrance: leave 10–15 cm on each side for framing
Pro tip: Draw furniture placement on paper to visualise before buying.
🚫 DON’T: Overcrowd the Room
Under-sized rugs make spaces feel disjointed or smaller.
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Avoid rugs that “float” in the middle of the floor
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Don’t push rugs into awkward corners—let them sit intentionally
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Choose round or runner shapes thoughtfully to define zones
✅ DO: Use a Non-Slip Rug Pad
Safety + longevity = rug pad.
A rug pad will:
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Prevent slipping or bunching
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Reduce wear on the rug fibres & flooring
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Add cushion, making cleaning and walking easier
Ideal on tile, laminate, or any hard surface—especially in family homes.
🚫 DON’T: Ignore Traffic Patterns
Rugs under the wear path will show flat areas and fading if not rotated.
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Rotate rugs 180º every 3–6 months
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Move sofas or coffee tables slightly to take pressure off one spot
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Watch for sunlight exposure — move rugs or furniture to avoid colour change
✅ DO: Choose the Right Material for Room Use
Match material to your lifestyle:
| Room | Ideal Material |
|---|---|
| Living room/Bedroom | Wool, wool blends, soft synthetics |
| Kitchen/Dining | Polypropylene, PET, washable options |
| Kids’ rooms/Play areas | Indoor–outdoor, washable, durable fibres |
| Hallways/Entry | Flatweave, sisal, jute |
Tip: If pets or kids are around, go for stain-resistant, short-pile or washable options.
🚫 DON’T: Use Rug Pads That Damage Floors
Avoid inexpensive rubber pads that can discolor or stick to your floor.
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Always choose felt-backed, breathable pads
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Make sure they're heat-resistant if you have underfloor heating
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Trim to size so no pad edge shows—clean regularly underneath
✅ DO: Clean Spills and Stains Immediately
A quick reaction can save your rug:
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Blot—don’t rub—with a clean cloth
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Use cold water + mild soap (or enzyme-cleaner for pet stains)
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Blot dry and air dry flat
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Test any cleaner in an invisible spot first
🚫 DON’T: Scrub or Soak the Rug
Excess moisture can cause mildew, shrinkage, or colour bleeding.
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No steam cleaners on wool or hand-knotted rugs
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Don’t soak washable rugs—follow care label
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Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive brushes
✅ DO: Vacuum Correctly & Regularly
Weekly vacuuming keeps dust and grit from damaging fibres.
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Use a brush-free setting or upholstery tool
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Vacuum in multiple directions
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Shake or beat small rugs outdoors occasionally
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Flip reversible rugs to even out wear
🚫 DON’T: Forget Regular Rotation & Sun Protection
Flat areas and fading often happen in unseen spots.
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Rotate regularly for even wear
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Use curtains or UV-blocking window film to protect from sun
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Move rugs seasonally or when furniture shifts
🛋️ See These Rug Rules in Action
Want to feel the difference good placement and material make?
Visit our Willebroek showroom (Antwerp region) and:
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Try different rug sizes under your chairs and sofas
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Compare pads for grip and floor protection
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Bring throw rugs home to test in your natural light
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Ask for swap samples before deciding
💬 Final Thought
With a little planning and care, your rug can be the foundation of your space—adding warmth, comfort, and style. Follow these smart “dos & don’ts” and your floors will look better, feel better, and last longer.
Questions? We’re here — online or in-store. Let’s find the rug that fits your life.
❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I pick the right rug size for my sofa setup?
A: The front legs of the sofa and chairs should sit on the rug. Aim for at least 60 cm beyond each seating area.
Q: Can I use one rug pad for different floors?
A: No—choose a breathable pad for hardwood, and heat-resistant pads for underfloor-heated rooms. Avoid sticky rubber.
Q: How often should I rotate my rug?
A: Every 3–6 months or when you notice flat areas or fade marks from sun and furniture.
