The best rugs for high-traffic areas
Hallways, entrances and family living rooms take thousands of footsteps a week. Here is how to choose a rug that still looks good after a year of it.
What makes a rug hard-wearing?
| Factor | Choose | Avoid in busy areas |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre | Wool (resilient), polypropylene (stain-resistant) | Viscose, which flattens and marks |
| Pile | Low and dense, or flatweave | Long shaggy piles, which mat and trap grit |
| Construction | Machine woven or tightly woven flatweave | Loose, chunky loops that snag |
| Colour | Mid-tones, blends and patterns | Pale plains and very dark plains |
By area
- Front door and hallway: a low-pile polypropylene or wool runner on a non-slip underlay, with a doormat at the door itself. See runners and long hallway runners.
- Family living room: wool or a dense machine-woven synthetic in a patterned, mid-tone design. See low pile rugs.
- Kitchen and dining: flat or low-pile, wipeable or washable. See kitchen rugs and washable rugs.
- Back door and garden room: an indoor-outdoor rug. See outdoor rugs.
Making any rug last longer
- Vacuum two or three times a week; grit cuts fibres.
- Rotate the rug 180 degrees every three to six months.
- Use an underlay; it reduces wear as well as slipping.
- Use doormats so less grit reaches the rug.
- Deal with spills straight away; see the stain guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most durable rug material?
Wool is the most resilient natural fibre; polypropylene is the most stain-resistant synthetic. Both suit busy rooms.
Are shaggy rugs good for high traffic?
No. Long piles mat and flatten along walkways. Choose a low or flat pile.
What colour rug is best for a hallway?
Mid-tones and patterns such as grey, taupe or a multicoloured design hide dirt best.
How often should I rotate a rug?
Every three to six months in a busy room, so wear and fading are even.
Shop the guide
-
Colores Cloud Everest C011 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98 -
Colores Cloud Jungle C009 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98 -
Colores Cloud Magma C012 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98 -
Colores Cloud Sunset C010 Rug in Multicoloured
from £69.98
-
Luca Rug in Sage Green
from £89.98 -
Lila Rug in Tan & Brown
from £89.98 -
Korra Loop Jute Rug in Slate Cream Wool &
from £99.98 -
Korra Loop Jute Rug in Linen Cream Wool &
from £99.98
Related guides
- Hallway runner size guide
- Rugs for homes with pets
- Wool vs synthetic rugs: which should you buy?
- All rug guides
Questions about a specific rug? Every product page lists the maker's size, material, pile height and care details. Delivery is free to England, Wales and mainland Scotland: 2-5 working days for Asiatic rugs and 1-2 working days for Livabliss rugs. See delivery and returns.