Rugs

Best Places to Buy Rugs in the US: Washable, Handmade, Outdoor & Stylish Area Rugs

Why choosing the right rug matters

Rugs do a lot more than cushion your feet — they anchor a room, define traffic flow, and inject texture and color into otherwise plain spaces. Picking the wrong rug can make a living room feel tiny or a hallway look awkward, while the right one can pull a whole design together. If you’ve ever stood in a store wondering whether a 5'x7' or a 9'x12' will work, you’re not alone. This guide breaks down where to shop across the US — from specialty brands to big-box retailers — and how to choose rugs that fit your style, budget, and lifestyle. Think of this as your map to carpet treasures, whether you want a washable shag for a messy family room or a hand-knotted statement rug for your formal living space.

Spotlight: My Magic Carpet — washables and playful designs

My Magic Carpet has made waves for its washable rugs that blend practicality with personality. If you have kids, pets, or just love low-maintenance pieces, their washable shag and printed washable rugs are a strong contender. Designs range from neutral solids to fun florals and animal prints, and popular sizes like 5'x7' and runners are common. What sets shops like My Magic Carpet apart is the ability to simply toss a rug in the washing machine — big bonus for busy households. If you’re decorating a playroom, kitchen, or mudroom, a washable rug can be a game-changer: you get the look of a larger, more delicate rug with much less worry about spills and stains.

Walmart: huge selection and budget-friendly options

Walmart is often the first port of call when you want instant variety and competitive prices. Their assortment stretches from machine-made indoor rugs and outdoor flatweaves to hand-knotted statement pieces. You’ll find licensed kids’ rugs like a 4'x6' MLB Toronto Blue Jays rug and larger area rugs such as 10'x13' vintage-style options. Walmart’s strength is breadth — you can pick a utility-friendly outdoor rug for the patio, a soft shag for the bedroom, or a bold, oversized 9'2"x12' hand-knotted piece if you want drama without hunting for a specialty retailer. For shoppers who prioritize value and fast availability, Walmart covers nearly every style and budget.

Rugs.com and specialty online retailers

Rugs.com focuses solely on rugs and related decor, so its catalog is deep and curated. You’ll find everything from outdoor flatweaves in 10' round sizes to high-end hand-knotted designs. When choosing a site dedicated to rugs, you benefit from tailored filters — search by pile height, material, size like 5'x7' or 8'x10', and use-case (e.g., kitchen-safe or living room statement). These retailers often provide visualizers that let you preview rugs in room settings, and they stock trusted brands and collections like Safavieh and specialized outdoor lines. If you want an expert-level selection without visiting multiple stores, Rugs.com and similar sites make the hunt simple.

Big-box alternatives: Target, Home Depot, and Wayfair

Target, Home Depot, and Wayfair offer practical choices for buyers who want a mix of style and convenience. Target leans toward trendy, affordable area rugs and washable pieces ideal for rental apartments or small homes. Home Depot is strong on durable indoor/outdoor rugs and utility-friendly materials — great for mudrooms, porches, and high-traffic corridors. Wayfair excels at variety and often carries mid-range to premium brands, with sizes that range from runners to expansive 10'x13' area rugs. These retailers are handy if you’re balancing aesthetic goals with real-world needs like slip resistance, stain performance, and budget constraints.

Target: trend-forward, apartment-friendly rugs

Target’s rug selections often mirror current design trends, so you can find boho flatweaves, low-pile geometric patterns, and washable options that suit urban apartments. Sizes like 4'x6' and 5'x7' are plentiful, making it easy to test a pattern before committing to a larger 8'x10'. Plus, Target frequently stocks collaborations with designers and influencers, so it’s a go-to for on-trend looks at wallet-friendly prices.

Home Depot: practical rugs for busy zones

If durability is your top priority, Home Depot provides plenty of indoor/outdoor and polypropylene rugs that stand up to mud, rain, and heavy foot traffic. These rugs are ideal for porches and entryways and come in practical sizes and non-skid backing options. Their selection often includes flatweaves and easy-clean synthetic fibers that are low maintenance and weather resistant.

Higher-end options: West Elm, Crate & Barrel, and Overstock

If your tastes skew toward designer looks, West Elm and Crate & Barrel offer curated, higher-quality rugs with modern sensibilities. Expect natural fibers like jute, wool blends, and hand-tufted or hand-knotted techniques in sizes suitable for living rooms and dining rooms. Overstock is a useful middle ground — often carrying brand names at discounted prices and an extensive catalog that includes vintage-style wool rugs, luxurious hand-knotted pieces, and large 10'x13' statement rugs. These stores are great when you want elevated design without the permanence or price tag of custom rugs.

How to choose the right rug size for your room

Size matters more than color when it comes to anchoring a space. Too small and a rug looks like an afterthought; too big and it crowds the room. A simple rule: in living rooms, aim for an 8'x10' or 9'x12' so front legs of sofas and chairs sit on the rug. Dining rooms usually need a rug at least 2 feet larger on each side than your table so chairs remain on the rug when pulled out. For bedrooms, a 5'x7' or 6'x9' can sit at the foot of the bed, while larger spaces often benefit from an 8'x10' or 9'x12'. Runners are perfect for hallways and narrow spaces — measure the corridor and leave a 6"-12" margin from the wall for a balanced look.

Measuring tips and common sizes

Always measure twice. For living areas, a common layout is a 9'x12' rug under a full seating group; for smaller seating areas, a 5'x8' or 6'x9' that fits just under front legs can work. Kitchens are often served well by 2'x6' to 3'x5' runners in front of the sink or stove. Remember to factor in furniture placement and door swing — an oversized rug can look awkward if it prevents cabinet doors or doors from opening fully.

Materials and construction: what to choose based on use

Material affects look, feel, and maintenance. Wool is naturally stain-resistant, soft, and long-lasting — ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Jute and sisal bring a textured, natural look and are great for low-traffic areas. Synthetic fibers like polypropylene and polyester are budget-friendly, fade-resistant, and often machine washable — perfect for high-traffic families and outdoor spaces. For heirloom-quality pieces, hand-knotted wool or silk rugs offer beauty and longevity but require more care. Think about where the rug will live first, then pick material and construction that match that use case.

Washable rugs vs. hand-knotted treasures

Washable rugs, like many from My Magic Carpet and other modern brands, are a practical choice for households that need frequent cleaning. Hand-knotted rugs, on the other hand, are investments that add texture and value to a room but aren’t meant for machine washing. If you love the look of a hand-knotted rug but worry about spills, consider placing it in a low-traffic area or using a washable pad on top for protection.

Outdoor and indoor/outdoor options: durability meets style

Outdoor rugs have come a long way. Brands and stores now offer colorful, patterned outdoor rugs that mimic woven textures while surviving sun, moisture, and mold. Look for polypropylene or other synthetic blends designed for patios and porches. Indoor/outdoor rugs are also great for kitchens and entryways; they clean easily and often have non-skid backings. Big-box stores and specialized retailers alike stock outdoor flatweaves in large sizes, like 10' round or 9'x12', so you can outfit a dining area under a pergola or create a cozy seating zone on the deck.

Styling ideas: how to layer and mix patterns

Layering rugs is a designer trick that adds depth and personality. Start with a neutral sisal or jute base and add a smaller, patterned rug on top to create a focal point. Don’t be afraid to mix scales — a large geometric rug can support a small floral runner for an eclectic look. When mixing patterns, keep the color palette consistent to avoid visual chaos. And remember: texture can act like a neutral, so a shag or high-pile layered over a flatweave will read as a cohesive, intentional choice.

Maintenance and care: keep your rug looking new

Simple maintenance goes a long way. Vacuum weekly for everyday dirt, rotate large rugs every 6-12 months to ensure even wear, and address spills immediately by blotting — never rubbing — to reduce staining. For washable rugs, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use cold water if machine washing. For high-end rugs, professional cleaning every few years preserves the fibers. Rug pads are inexpensive and extend the life of your rug by reducing friction and adding cushioning.

Where to find the best deals and samples

Want to compare textures before committing? Request fabric or rug samples from specialty stores and online retailers to see how colors read in your room. Seasonal sales around spring and fall often bring deep discounts, and clearance sections on sites like Overstock or Wayfair can yield high-quality rugs at lower prices. Sign up for newsletters from retailers you like — stores frequently offer coupon codes and early access to sales. If you’re shopping big-box stores, check for bundle discounts when buying multiple rugs or while furnishing an entire home.

Final tips before you buy

Always bring home a sample or color swatch if you’re not 100% sure about a pattern or shade. Consider traffic levels — a delicate silk rug looks stunning but isn’t practical near the entry. And don’t forget to factor in rug pads: they prevent slipping, protect floors, and make lower-pile rugs feel more substantial. Whether you pick a washable shag from a practical brand, a budget-friendly find at Walmart, or a hand-knotted centerpiece from a specialty store, the right rug transforms a space from “just functional” to “designed.”

Conclusion

Choosing the right rug is both practical and creative. From washable, family-friendly options offered by brands like My Magic Carpet to Walmart broad and budget-conscious selection, and from specialty retailers like Rugs.com to designer-focused stores such as West Elm and Crate & Barrel — there’s a perfect rug for every room in the US. Measure carefully, know your material needs, and don’t shy away from mixing textures or layering. With the right approach, you can find a rug that looks like it belongs in a magazine and stands up to day-to-day life.