Rug shopping can feel overwhelming when you’re buying online. Below are some of my favorite retailers and practical tips to help you find the best place to buy rugs online.
When I revealed my living room makeover back in 2013, it became one of the most popular posts on my blog. The makeover generated thousands of questions — everything from paint colors to furniture sources — but the item readers asked about most was the rug.
RELATED: Find out what size rug to buy for each space in your home.
Online rug shopping was relatively new then, and everyone wanted to know where to find a great rug online. Today, purchasing rugs on the web is common and much easier, but there are a few smart practices that will make sure you get the right look, quality, and value.
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Tips for Buying Rugs Online
1. Price match
Many rugs appear at multiple retailers under different product names. If you find a rug you like, copy its description or distinctive keywords and search across stores. Often the same rug shows up in several places with varying prices and shipping fees. Compare total cost — price plus shipping and returns — and choose the most reputable seller offering the best overall deal. Price matching across retailers can save you a lot.
2. Look for real-life photos
Product photos can be edited or shot under ideal lighting. Search for the rug name plus terms like “in my home” or “living room” to find blogger photos or customer images. Real-life photos reveal true color, pile, pattern scale, and how well the rug hides dirt or stains. Seeing the rug in a space similar to yours reduces surprises when it arrives.
3. Measure your space
Don’t guess size. Measure your room and the area where the rug will sit. I recommend marking the intended rug dimensions on the floor with painter’s tape — it’s the simplest way to visualize scale and placement. Many people underestimate how much an 8×10 or 9×12 rug will change a room until they lay out the dimensions first.
4. Know the rug size “rules” — and when to break them
There are basic guidelines for rug placement — for example, in living rooms, ideally all front legs of furniture should sit on the rug, or at minimum the front legs. For dining rooms, choose a rug that extends past the chairs even when they’re pulled out. I’ve written a detailed guide on rug sizing rules, but remember: break the rules if a different look fits your style. A floating rug can be stunning when done intentionally.
Best Places to Buy Rugs Online
Over the years I’ve bought rugs from multiple retailers and developed a shortlist of reliable sources that offer good selection, value, and service. Here are the places I recommend checking first when you’re ready to buy a rug online.
1. Wayfair
Wayfair has a vast selection at a wide range of price points. I’ve purchased several rugs from Wayfair and appreciate their competitive pricing and often-free shipping. Check each product’s return policy — returns aren’t always free — but Wayfair’s customer service has been helpful when I needed assistance.
2. Amazon
Amazon often matches Wayfair on price and inventory. I’ll choose Amazon when the listing includes free returns or when the seller has strong customer reviews. Prime shipping and easy returns make it a practical option for many buyers.
3. Ruggable
Ruggable introduced washable rugs with a removable, machine-washable cover — a great solution for kitchens, high-traffic areas, or homes with kids and pets. I tested a runner in our kitchen and it cleans up well; the convenience of being able to wash the cover alone is a real advantage. Ruggable’s designs and performance make it an excellent choice where spills are likely.
4. Overstock
Overstock often carries the same or similar rugs as other big retailers. If an item is sold out on one site, check Overstock and compare prices. Their inventory and pricing frequently mirror Wayfair, so you can often get a better deal by shopping around.
5. Ballard Designs
Ballard Designs offers higher-end styles and a straightforward returns process. I’ve been impressed by their customer service; when I returned a rug that didn’t work in my space, the process was easy and they even provided a return bag. If returns are a concern, Ballard is worth considering.
6. Chris Loves Julia Collection by Loloi
The Chris Loves Julia collection from Loloi features beautiful, well-made rugs at affordable prices. These designs have wide retailer distribution, and I’ve found them to be good-quality for the cost. They’re often available through multiple sellers, so price comparison pays off.
Have you discovered a favorite place to buy rugs online? Where do you find the best budget-friendly rugs? What tips do you have for buying without seeing a rug in person? Share your experiences in the comments — it helps everyone shop smarter.
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