A beautiful rug can pull a space together and add warmth, texture and style – but with so many different options available, how do you choose the right one? Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you buy.

1. What material will work best in my space?
Are you looking for a rug that can stand up to a lot of wear and tear and that’s easy to clean? Then a synthetic fibre rug like those made of polyester or viscose could be a good choice. However, if you’re keen to add texture to your space, you may want to consider a natural fibre rug like those made of sisal, jute or seagrass. Just remember that these natural fibres may fade in direct sunlight, says Hertex sales consultant Kasandra Cronje, so try to rotate them occasionally to ensure that they age evenly.

2. What size do I need?
Think about your space and furniture placement when deciding on the dimensions of your rug. According to thespruce.com, buying a rug that’s too small is a common decorating mistake – so if you’re struggling to settle on a size, you may want to go for the larger option. Before you head to the store, remember to measure the room and the area where you want to place your rug to give you a rough idea of the size you’ll need.

3. What designs and colours will work best?
Consider the final look that you’d like to achieve in your space, as this will help to narrow your design and colour scheme options. If your rug is one of the last things you’re adding to your room, make sure that it will work well with your décor. And if you’re finding it hard to decide between two or more options, chat to the sales consultant to see whether you can trial the rugs in your home before making a final decision.

Tip: If you’re searching for an indoor rug but haven’t found the right one, you may want to consider looking at outdoor rugs. These hardy floor coverings are versatile and can be a great option for dining or high-sun areas in your home, says Cronje.