An easy and relatively inexpensive way to decorate your home and soften the look of your floors is to use area rugs. They range in price from extremely inexpensive to high end. They are easy to clean, either by washing in the washing machine or by hand, or shampooing, or taking out to a carpet cleaner. Thus they are much more user friendly than wall-to-wall carpeting.

One of the most popular variety of area rugs are Persian rugs. This kind of oriental area rug is handmade in virtually limitless color combinations and intricate patterns. The art of Persian rug construction dates back to ancient times, making these rugs highly admired for their artistry and technique. These types of rugs are also enjoyed for their use of natural fibers, usually high-quality, handspun wool.

Those who favor Persian rugs may want to consider a Tibetan rug instead, particularly if they prefer more vibrant and bold colors and patterns. Tibet has a very long tradition of making masterpieces carefully crafted from virgin wool sheared from their Highland sheep. These high quality rugs add beauty and style to nearly any room, from a child's simple bedroom to a formal living area or a master suite.

Shag rugs are a type that is made to have fluffy, deep pile by pulling the strands. They are exceptionally soft and are a relatively contemporary style. Oriental rugs are a more traditional kind of carpet, and both types provide area rug padding to any home. While oriental carpets have been in vogue for several centuries, shag rugs became most well known during the 1970s. Retro styling has brought them back into fashion today.

Lastly, many choose a rug type labeled as 'contemporary' style. Area rugs in the contemporary style are available in an array of styles, colors, materials, and textures. Look for fibers like wool or cotton for the highest quality and durability. Popular contemporary rugs often come in patterns of geometric style with block colors that are perfect for the setting of a child's bedroom.

Area rugs can go with any style or furnishings due to the wide range of colors and styles. Adding a rug to your home can make a room visually dramatic whether you go with a fun shag rug, a artistic geometric patterned rug, or one of the Oriental classics such as a Persian or Tibetan rug.