High pile vs. low pile rugs  – find the perfect rug for every room

Soft and cosy, or sleek and stylish? When choosing a rug, you need to consider not only various options for size and colour but also the type of rug that best suits your room. More specifically, tackling the age old question of high pile vs. low pile rugs.

What’s the difference between low pile and high pile rugs?

A rug is made up of fabric fibres that are woven in loops, creating a cohesive surface. A rug will have different characteristics depending on the fibres’ size and the loops’ tightness. At first glance, the differences between low pile and high pile rugs are pretty obvious: High pile rugs look thicker and are usually fluffier than those with low pile. A low pile rug has fibres that are very short, and the loops are small and tight, giving the rug a smooth and even surface. A high pile rug, on the other hand, is made up of tall fibres that are loosely woven into larger loops, creating a soft and irregular surface. Shaggy rugs are well-known examples of high pile rugs.

Where can I use a high pile rug?

High pile rugs are a perfect fit for your living room or bedroom where you want to create a comfortable and cozy atmosphere. They’re often considered warm and welcoming, adding texture to the room. However, they might not be the most practical choice as they can be tricky to clean, so you should avoid placing a shaggy rug under your kitchen table.

Low pile rugs are perfect for high-traffic areas, seamlessly blending style with practicality. A rug with a low pile is suitable for areas where you move around a lot, like in a hallway, kitchen or home office. Not only are they easy to clean, but the shorter pile also ensures that small toys or bits of clutter won’t easily disappear within their fibres.

Match your lifestyle: high vs. low pile rugs

So, is a high pile or a low pile rug better? It all depends on where you use it and your expectations. A rug with a shorter pile gives a sleek, modern impression and is ideal for areas where you move around a lot, whereas high pile rugs are more often used to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. By tailoring your choice to match the tempo of your lifestyle, you’ll get the most out of your rugs.

Choose a low pile rug in areas bustling with activity, effortlessly marrying sophistication with functionality. Meanwhile, let the luxurious embrace of a high pile rug redefine spaces where comfort and a welcoming aura take precedence, transforming them into cosy retreats.