Rugs can come in a huge range of prices. And a “cheap rug” can be a high-quality rug that’s simply discounted. This leaves some people confused about what to look for. Sometimes pricing on rugs can be difficult to understand. But there are reasons behind it that include:
- Size
- Materials
- Construction
And still, high priced rugs don’t always mean a better deal than more affordable rugs. Sometimes, cheaper rugs can actually offer advantages over more expensive rugs. Below, we’ll look at how budget rugs measure up against more expensive ones. We’ll also break down how discount rugs can be a good investment for your decorating needs.
Why are some rugs more expensive than others?
While some of what affects price can indicate quality, sometimes it simply has more to do with the cost of producing the rug. While handmade rugs can be unique works of art, they also can rise to prices that are very high compared to machine-made products. If you’re looking for a unique rug to be a treasured family heirloom, a handmade rug is something to consider splurging on, or saving up for. If you just want to spruce up your space, cheaper rugs and rug deals can offer durability and quality at a much lower price point.
Do I get as much value with a discount rug?
Value is very subjective for rugs, and with expensive rugs, you’re often paying a premium for expensive materials and labor. Less expensive rugs can offer more utility and durability than more expensive ones, due to the fact that they are often made from modern materials. New advances in textile production have created relatively cheap alternatives to traditional fabrics that offer huge advantages over less durable fabrics.
Cheap rugs for high traffic areas
Affordable rugs offer quite a few advantages that expensive, hand-woven rugs just can’t. Other than the massive difference in price, cheap rugs tend to be more durable in the long term. Rugs made with modern materials and techniques are tough, whereas with high-end materials there’s always a risk that cleaning could ruin the delicate fibers of the rug.
Versatile modern materials can give you a lot of utility with that wallet-friendly price tag. Investing in these alternatives offers some buffer from accidental messes from kids, pets, or just everyday life. Discount rugs also give you an opportunity to experiment with new styles without making a major investment sight unseen.
They also offer durability in the form of moisture resistance. Many synthetic fibers absorb almost no moisture at all, so rugs made from these fibers can handle spills in high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, without staining. Most are washable by spot cleaning, and some can even be placed in the washing machine!
Not ready to commit? Try new design options!
Boho, maximalist, animal print, primary palettes—there are so many options when choosing your interior design look, it can be hard to actually pick one and make sure your space will look the way you always wanted. This is why we have created a whole section in our blog with the best ideas and inspiration for you. From our roundups of affordable rugs that are durable and look great, to our most pet-friendly pieces, we make it easy for you to browse through and pick your favorites. Then, if you decide to invest in a trend, you’ll have the freedom to reconsider your style without regretting the cost of your previous purchase.
How do materials affect rug cost?
One of the biggest factors in the price of a rug is the materials that go into making it. Silk or wool rugs can offer delicate beauty and elegant textures, but the value of the materials can escalate the price by a lot. These rugs are often gorgeous works of art . . . that people are walking all over. Also, the delicate natural fibers of rugs like jute can be hard to clean; many fibers won’t tolerate chemical cleaners. While a rug of this quality could last a lifetime if cared for, its fragility and susceptibility to stains can cut its life and beauty short.
Many rug makers now offer lower-priced rugs made from more affordable synthetic materials. Often these rugs are made of nylon or polyester. While these materials can make for a much cheaper price tag, they often don’t hide dirt as well as traditional textiles can. However, their toughness usually makes them easier to clean. Cleansers that can’t be used on wool or silk can be used on these materials to easily treat dirt and stains. These cheaper materials also often hold their color better long-term. This is because modern dyes that are longer lasting can be used to create their vibrant colors.
Often, modern rugs will contain more than just one type of material. Jute is the cheapest natural textile. Recently it has become a very common backer for rugs. Other textiles are then woven into the jute to produce a gorgeous rug with a much cheaper price tag.
Why are bigger rugs more expensive?
Obviously, size will play a huge role in pricing of rugs. More materials will translate into a higher cost to make; the dimensions of large area rugs can greatly increase the total materials needed. Even a cheaper style like a braided jute area rug can double in price between 9’x12′ and 10’x14′. More surface area means more time spent making the rug, too. But while more materials and more costs for transportation can add up to a high price, the main benefit is that large area rugs can cover entire rooms. This means even pricey large rugs can offer huge value.
What should I look for when buying a cheap rug?
Our Ultimate Rug Guide can help you understand your needs and decide what specific aspects of a rug matter for you. Paying for a unique work of art that will be walked on isn’t everyone’s idea of value. Cheaper rugs can offer unique advantages versus more traditional materials and handmade rugs.
When looking for something that is versatile and offers great utility for the cost, a cheaper rug will be a great choice for your home. It doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. The right rug is the rug you love.
