Best Area Rugs for High-Traffic Areas

Choose the right material

When shopping for a rug, the first thing to consider is finding a durable material that suits your space. A durable rug material should be easy to maintain, withstand heavy foot traffic, and maintain its beauty for a long time. High-traffic areas see a lot of foot traffic, with or without shoes. Rugs made from strong fibers like wool, sisal, or polypropylene are just a few great options for busy spaces. 

It's also important to consider the type of heavy use your rug will endure. Spaces prone to spills and moisture need rugs with different durability characteristics compared to spaces prone to dust and dirt. Whether you prefer natural or synthetic rug fibers, we can help you choose the best heavy-duty rug for your busy space.

Natural rug materials

Wool

Wool and wool blend rugs are a preferred choice for natural-fiber rugs, especially in high-traffic areas. Wool fibers are naturally resilient and bounce back under heavy foot traffic. In fact, many carpet installers will recommend wool for particularly busy areas like stairs because wool can handle constant crushing without flattening or wearing out like synthetic fibers do. 

Wool is naturally stain-resistant and easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance choice for busy households. If you're looking for a durable, natural fiber that can withstand foot traffic while providing long-lasting beauty, wool is a reliable choice. 

Sisal

Plant fibers such as sisal can be a great choice for those looking for a durable and natural rug option. Although grasses like jute and seagrass are commonly used for area rugs, sisal is the most popular grass to be installed wall to wall. This is because it is less prone to shedding and offers more durability to withstand heavy foot traffic - making it a great option for any high-traffic area.

The one caveat with any natural fiber rug is to be wary of moisture. Dried plant fibers absorb liquids quickly and can be difficult to clean, often showing watermarks. We advise clients to avoid placing natural fibers in areas where moisture is likely to occur, such as bathrooms.

If moisture is not an issue, sisal can be a great easy-maintenance rug, as it is easy to quickly vacuum, is resistant to dirt and allergens, and naturally hides dry soiling from shoes. Use sisal in areas like hallways, the living room, and a home office to add durability and coastal charm to your space. 

Consider traffic volume

If you have children or animals at home, you need soft but tough floor coverings. Natural wools and synthetic materials like nylon offer durable, cleanable, and comfortable carpets for gathering and living spaces where comfort is key. 

However, it's equally important to consider rug construction when selecting a durable rug.

What are the best rug piles for high-traffic spaces?

When selecting a rug for high-traffic areas such as hallways, entryways, or living rooms, it's wise to opt for rugs with a shorter pile height, typically ranging from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch. Low-pile rugs like flatweave or loop are a great choice as they have several advantages. They’re durable, easy to clean, and less likely to trap allergens. 

What areas of my home are high-traffic spaces?

Everyone is unique, so the busiest areas in your home may be different from those of your neighbor. However, in general, the highest foot traffic often occurs at entrances, corridors, hallways, and frequently used rooms such as the living room and dining room.

Living room and bedroom

When looking for the best rugs for a high-traffic living room or bedroom, consider comfort and softness as well as the amount of stain resistance you need. If you’re living in a household with pets and children, compact piles and easy-clean materials like wool will make it easier to clean when pet accidents and spills occur.

For areas where moisture is less of a concern but foot traffic is common, consider a low-profile or flatwoven rug such as sisal that is easy to maintain without sacrificing style. While living room rugs tend to encounter a lot of activewear, bedroom rugs tend to encounter fewer spills, stains, and shoes-on-foot-traffic than other areas of the house, making them good rooms to place lighter-colored, fluffier, or more delicate rugs. 

Dining room and kitchen

Rugs with a compact pile or flat profile are the best option for areas more likely to experience spills and stains. Dining rooms and kitchens can benefit from a construction that will withstand dragging chair legs and impressions from heavy furniture. Flatweave or compact loop pile rugs that can be easily cleaned up in case of food spills are durable options for the dining room. For busy dining rooms where spills are more prone, consider fibers that tend to repel moisture, like wool or nylon. Learn more about Choosing the Right Dining Room Rug. 

Hallway and entryway

Stylish flatweaves or low-pile rugs, such as sisal or nylon, can enhance the look of hallways and entryways while providing lasting durability. When choosing a rug, consider whether moisture resistance is needed and select a fiber that can withstand it. Entryways and foyers, which tend to be more moisture-prone, may require a rug with higher moisture resistance. On the other hand, natural materials like wool or sisal may be better suited for hallways.

What rug materials should I avoid in high-traffic areas?

When searching for durable rugs for high-traffic areas, it is important to know which rugs should be avoided as well. Since high-traffic areas are more susceptible to dirt, dust, spills, and moisture, it is recommended to stay away from rugs with a high or plush pile because they tend to be harder to clean and maintain.

Shag rugs

Shag is a luxurious rug material with a very plush pile. While excellent for providing extra comfort and endless style, they can be challenging to clean and are prone to matting if used in areas with a lot of foot traffic. 

Silk or viscose rugs

Delicate materials like silk or viscose offer an elegant, elevated look and feel to a space. Because of their fragile fibers, they are more likely to wear out quickly in high-traffic areas. 

High-pile rugs

High-pile rugs above 3/4 inches should be avoided in high-traffic areas. While offering a luxurious feel underfoot, high-pile rugs are more likely to trap dirt and are more difficult to clean when accidents or spills occur.