5 Best Rugs to Upgrade Any Room, Tested by WIRED (2025)

Finding the perfect rug is a lot like online dating. There are endless options, but only a few are actually worth your time—and the best rugs will suit your lifestyle. Do you need a low-maintenance rug that can withstand the messiness of pets and kids? Are you a strict no-shoes household? Or are you after something purely decorative, the kind of statement piece no one is allowed to so much as breathe on? Beyond aesthetics, there's durability, pile height, and upkeep to think about. Wool rugs are ultra-soft and long-lasting but need TLC. Synthetic blends are easy to clean but might not feel as luxe. Then there's the booming category of machine-washable rugs, which promise convenience without sacrificing style. No matter your needs, I've researched, tested, and rounded up the best rugs for every space. No bad matches here. For more home recommendations, check out our Best Couches, Best Organic Mattresses, and Best Robot Vacuums guides. Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best ... Read full article.