The high traffic areas and commercial spaces need coverings for the floors that can hold up to heavy The high traffic areas and commercial spaces need coverings for the floors that can hold up to heavy foot traffic. This is where the best rugs for high traffic areas come in.
Not all area rugs are created equal.
You want the best rug material for high traffic area that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. But it’s not all about the material. Keep scrolling to learn what should be considered when buying rugs for high traffic areas.
Best Rug Materials For High Traffic Areas
Wool
If you are in search of a durable area rug, you can’t go wrong with wool. What does it set apart from the rest? First of all, wool rugs are extremely durable. They are also safe, soft, biodegradable, and renewable. On top of that, wool fibers can resist compression naturally, which makes these rugs perfect for high-traffic areas.
Natural Fibers
Most common natural fibers include jute, sisal, and seagrass. Jute is excellent for layering underneath rugs. Seagrass is usually more textured and tougher than jute, so it’s a good choice for a welcome mat. Sisal is a natural fiber that is biodegradable and renewable too. These area rugs are easy to clean and decorative, but they are not as durable as wool.
Nylon
Nylon rugs are ideal for high traffic areas because they are very soft, easy to clean, and affordable. They are also fade-resistant and stain-resistant. Most important of all, nylon is indestructible and it doesn’t wear down quickly. That makes it a great choice for spaces with heavy foot traffic.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a stain-resistant fiber that is often used for area rugs and low-pile carpets. This material is very popular because it doesn’t absorb liquids either. Therefore, polypropylene rugs and carpets can last for several years. Yet polypropylene can’t compare with nylon and wool in terms of durability.
Polyester
Area rugs made of polyester wear down easily, which is particularly true when they are placed in high traffic spaces. Their life span is short compared to wool and nylon rugs. That said, polyester rugs are not recommended for high traffic areas.
Cotton
Cotton turned out to be a pleasant alternative to wool. These area rugs are great for people who are sensitive to wool. While cotton is pretty durable and easy to clean, it is neither long-lasting nor fade-resistant. That’s why wool is a better option for high traffic areas.
Best Types of High Traffic Area Rugs
In addition to the material, the type of rug is also an important consideration. Here are the best types of high traffic rugs.
Low-Pile Rugs
A low-pile rug is one of the most popular floor coverings. What’s more, it is deemed to be the best type of rug for high traffic area. Regardless of the materials used, low-pile rugs regularly beat their high-pile counterparts with regard to durability and foot traffic.
Dark-Colored Rugs
These rugs excel at hiding stains and dirt thanks to their dark colors. That is why many people choose dark-colored rugs over light-colored ones. Even so, you need to choose rugs with strong colors made of materials that aren’t prone to fading.
Patterned Rugs
Patterned rugs hide dirt and stains by causing them to fade into their background. They will save you the hassle of cleaning your floor coverings every week by making stains and dirt less visible.
Vintage
Vintage area rugs seem to back in style these days. That’s because they can keep rooms look fresh when paired with modern furniture. Most of these rugs are patterned and made of natural materials like wool, which makes them a good choice for high traffic areas.
Avoid These Types of Rugs in High Traffic Rooms
Plush Rugs
While plush rugs feel great underfoot and are soft to the touch, they are prone to matting. Besides, furry or shag rugs are also difficult to maintain and clean. They aren’t good for areas with high traffic intensity because of their long fibers and plush nature.
Silk or Viscose
Viscose and silk are very delicate materials that look beautiful. Despite being excellent decorative options, these are not suited for areas with a lot of foot traffic. They appear to be quite fragile fibers that quickly get worn down.
Thick Pile Height
Avoid rugs and carpets with a thick pile height. While these floor coverings are cozy and warm, they tend to wear down quickly, especially when used in high traffic rooms. You may still use them for bedrooms or playrooms where children often play on the floor. They will feel comfortable while sitting on a high-pile rug.
Features of a Good Rug for a Heavy Traffic Area
- Durability and life span: Needless to say, you need a durable rug that features an impressive life span. Such an area rug will withstand the test of time as well as regular wear and tear.
- Low-pile height: Rugs with a low-pile height can hold up to heavy traffic much better than carpets with a thick pile height. That’s because these area rugs are made with miniature loops that aren’t so plush.
- Patterns: As stated earlier, patterned rugs are excellent for high traffic spots since they hide dirt and stains. When buying an area rug, pick one that combines dark colors with patterns for the best results.
- Easy to clean and stain-resistant: The rug you are going to use in a high traffic area should be easy to clean and maintain. Look for an area rug that is made out of stain-resistant fabric.
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Luxe Weavers Euston Gray Abstract Modern Area Rug
Designed as a mixture of modern and traditional styles, this rectangular rug is a great addition to every space and floor. It’s made of polypropylene, a stain-resistant fabric that has a decent life span. You can rest assured that it won’t wear nor tear easily. The rug comes with a medium pile for improved comfort and it can fit under furniture with ease. Thanks to exceptional firmness, the rug reduces the risk of slips.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Polypropylene
- Pattern: Abstract
- Shape: Rectangular
- Medium pile
- Dimensions: 5′ x 7′
Unique Loom Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Area Rug
What does make this polypropylene worth buying? First of all, it is very durable. The power loomed fabric is built to last, which makes it suitable for high traffic areas. Jute backing is intended to prevent sliding and slipping. Next, it is stain-resistant and easy to clean. You can keep it clean with regular vacuuming. I also like that this area rug doesn’t shed either. Hopefully, you will like it too.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Polypropylene
- Backing: Jute
- Weave: Machine-woven
- Pattern: Traditional
- Dimensions: 4′ x 6′
Best for Kids – Mohawk Solar System Educational Area Rug
If you have little kids, I recommend buying this fun area rug. It is also educational, not only fun. Your child will get a better idea of the solar system and outer space while playing on this floor covering. The rug has a planet-themed design that makes it ideal for playrooms. Nevertheless, you can also use it for other rooms and high traffic areas. The wear-dated nylon used for the production of this rug has excellent resiliency and durability.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Pattern: Theme
- Shape: Rectangular
- Style: Cosmic design
- Dimensions: 5′ x 8′
Indoor/Outdoor – Stain Resistant Floral Area Rug
Some people think that floral area rugs are outmoded. Well, I don’t think so. This stain-resistant rug is a good example. It is a perfect blend of modern and oriental carpet styles. The all-synthetic durable construction makes it perfect for high traffic areas. Moreover, the rug is fade-resistant, so it can hold up to rain, sun, as well as regular wear and tear. That said, you can use it either indoors or outdoors. It would look good and serve the purpose either way.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Synthetic
- Pattern: Floral
- Shape: Rectangular
- UV fade resistant
- Dimensions: 5’3″ x 7’3″
Modern Floral Gray High Traffic Runner Rug
If you are looking for cheap high traffic runner rugs under $50, look no further. You have just come across the best rug in this price range. This machine-made area rug is constructed from polypropylene, while jute is used for its backing. Plush and soft to walk on, this fabric adds to the comfort. Synthetic long-wearing fibers increase the longevity and durability of the rug. They resist stains and fading naturally, making this rug ideal addition to a home with children and pets.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Polypropylene
- Jute backing
- Pattern: Floral
- Shape: Runner
- Dimensions: 2′ x 7’2″
Safavieh Heavy Traffic Runner Rug
With fun colors and a boho design, this area rug is capable of brightening up almost any space. It is ideal for the entryway, dorm room, dining room, living room, bedroom, etc. You can use it for high traffic areas in your home. This pet-friendly rug can withstand everyday high foot traffic and pet activities as well. The enhanced fibers and refined construction make it pet- and kid-friendly while ensuring an easy-care at the same time. Seamless placement underneath furniture is ensured by sleek pile height.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Polypropylene
- Pattern: Western
- Shape: Rectangular
- Machine-woven
- Dimensions: 2’2″ x 6′
Ottomanson Jardin Indoor/Outdoor Runner Rug
Ottomanson Jardin area rug can do a terrific job of enhancing the look of your kitchen or living room. You can also use it for an outdoor high traffic space like your deck, backyard, or patio. It will protect your flooring and make it look more beautiful. Designed as a flat-weave power-loomed covering for floors, this rug features great durability and rich texture. It is perfect for spill-prone and high traffic areas thanks to its utilitarian design and heavy-duty construction.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Polypropylene
- Pattern: Moroccan
- Shape: Runner
- Dimensions: 2’7″ x 7′
iCustomRug Synthetic Stain Resistant & Easy to Clean Area Rug
Soft and durable, this area machine-made rug is a good choice for areas with heavy traffic. It is finished with an elegant 2-inch border and made of polypropylene. You will be able to place it under your furniture without any problems thanks to the low pile construction. Another great thing about this stain-resistant rug that you will appreciate is that it doesn’t stain. Felt backing will protect your floors from scratches. The natural look is another big plus.
Key Features & Specs
- Material: Polypropylene
- Pattern: Bordered
- Shape: Rectangular
- Dimensions: 8′ x 10′
Popular Questions
Are jute rugs good for high traffic areas?
Jute is a strong material that can withstand heavy foot traffic. This type of fiber is difficult to clean and it stains easily, though. That is why jute is only good for layering underneath area rugs.
What are the most durable area rugs?
Hand-knotted wool rugs reign supreme when it comes to durability. This material is prized for its softness as well. Nylon area rugs are very durable too, and they can also serve you well for many years even when used in high traffic areas.
How do you protect high traffic areas on carpet?
You can protect these areas by putting durable rugs over them. They will serve as an additional layer of protection. If you don’t use carpets for your floors, I recommend that you place pads under the rugs. They can greatly reduce rug wear and prevent slipping.
Is polyester carpet good for high traffic areas?
Not really. While polyester is an affordable and stain-resistant carpeting option, it is not as durable as wool or nylon. If you want to use polyester carpets for high-traffic areas regardless of this fact, make sure they are high twist and dense if you want them to last you longer.
Key Takeaways
You’ve learned what features, types, and materials are good and bad for rugs for heavy foot traffic. To sum up, the best option for high traffic areas are patterned low-pile rugs made of a stain-resistant and durable material like wool, nylon, or polypropylene.
I recommend choosing a dark-colored rug that isn’t prone to fading. Make sure it doesn’t shed at all. You have seen some of the popular rug options for high traffic areas reviewed above. It’s up to you to pick one that works great for a commercial space or high traffic area in your home.
Thank you. We are on a farm and Wear boots all over the house. I need carpets that are durable and easy to remove dirty law prints or boot “debris”. We also need light colours like light grey since the rooms where the carpet will be are in the dark side of the house
Dear Marjorie Bradley,
it will be hard to choose. Take a look at this one and this. I think they’ll fit well.