The Best 9×12 Area Rugs

Buying Guide for 9×12 Area Rugs

Why buy a 9×12-foot area rug?

For larger areas in your home, such as the living room or a dining room area, a 9×12 area rug is the most favorable option because of how much floor space it can cover. These typically extend beyond your furniture but still leave enough space from the walls. If you have a table that sits six to eight people, a 9×12 rug should fit underneath comfortably with some of it peeking out. For any table that fits more, you might want to opt for a larger size rug.

What should you look for in a 9×12 area rug?

• Pile Size/Placement: The pile size or thickness of the rug and where you decide to place your rug go hand in hand. If you need one to go in a high-traffic area such as a hallway or in a kid’s bedroom, you’ll want to opt for a low-pile rug, as it’s less prone to loose threads and won’t trip you up. A rug with a high pile will work well in a place that gets minimal foot traffic and less furniture since it can show indentions or get ripped easily. Typically, a low-pile rug is more durable and easier to clean; however, a high-pile rug will probably feel more plush and comfy.
• Material: Rugs come in various materials like wool, jute, synthetics, silk, and cotton. Wool is great for adding that perfect amount of softness to your home and is durable, but it typically holds moisture, may shed over time, and can be expensive. Jute is another durable option that is static-free and absorbent, so you’ll have to clean it immediately if stained. Synthetic options are usually made of nylon, viscose, or polyester, can be used indoors or outdoors, and are easy to keep clean by just tossing them in the washer; however, they are not easy to dye, so these may come in limited colors. Cotton, on the other hand, can be dyed in whatever color or pattern you want but is usually less durable. Silk is the most luxurious choice and is beautiful, but you’ll want to keep in mind that its delicate nature will make it harder to maintain.
• Shape: A 9×12-foot rug will be a traditional rectangle or sometimes a unique oval shape. These dimensions are quite long in length and will be your go-to silhouette in your dining room, living room, or space where you have a lot of floor space to cover.

What are some tips for sizing a room for a rug?

The first step in figuring out the right size rug for your space is to measure it. You can use sheets of newspaper or masking tape to mark the exact area you want to cover, which helps to visualize how much floor space it will cover and the interaction with your furniture. It’s not a hard-and-fast rule, but you typically want to keep an 18-inch border of uncovered flooring around your rug and between the walls. For transitional spaces, you can go for smaller-sized rugs, but if your intention is to open up a room and give the illusion that it’s big, a larger size (like a 9×12) will do the trick.

Our Picks for the Best 9×12 Area Rugs

Pros: If a classy vintage look is your goal, add this blue area rug from Unique Loom to your home. This short-pile rug is machine-woven and made of polypropylene with a jute backing. It comes in several patterns of burgundy, brown, gray, tan, navy blue, and orange. It’s recommended to spot clean and vacuum it regularly; while carpet shampoo is fine to use, be sure to dry it immediately and evenly.

Cons: The edges may look warped or uneven.

Bottom Line: Nothing says sophistication like this unique short-pile rug that is easy to clean and maintain. The various color combinations really set them apart from your basic, solid-colored rugs.

 

Pros: This high-quality rug designed with a medallion trellis pattern can give any room in your home a facelift. It’s made with durable synthetic fibers that are stain-resistant and won’t shed. Because of its 0.4-inch thick pile, your kids and pets can run around without worry of tripping or accidents. All this rug requires is regular vacuuming and blotting minor stains for quick, simple maintenance. If cream and multicolored aren’t a part of your vision, you have five other color combinations to choose from—grey/gold, ivory/aqua, navy/teal, silver/grey, and white/royal blue.

Cons: The colors may appear more faded than what is expected.

Bottom Line: Enhance your dining room, nursery, or office with this rug that comes from a reliable, trusted brand like SAFAVIEH. With incredible detail and construction, you’ll have your floor covered in classy, trendy style.

 

Pros: A 100% jute rug may be the addition you need to achieve a well-balanced, all-natural atmosphere. This one from nuLOOM is imported and made from India with intricate hand-woven detail, making it well worth the investment. For ultimate comfort and minimal friction and shedding, it’s best paired with the nuLOOM rug pad. Just vacuum or use a handheld attachment once or twice a week on the lowest setting and spot clean with a mild detergent when needed.

Cons: This can be difficult to keep clean without messing up the fibers. It’s not the best choice for highly trafficked areas as it may unravel, too.

Bottom Line: The next time you need to make your space look more put together but also understated, complete the look with this jute rug. Depending on your color scheme, it could be the perfect pop of earthy tones or blend in for a relaxed aesthetic.

 

Pros: For something a bit more against the grain, opt for an oval area rug like this one from SAFAVIEH. It’s made from high-quality polypropylene and has a low-pile profile that provides just enough comfort when you pass by. The multicolored brown braided pattern is reversible, so it can last for a long time and match with most neutral decor.

Cons: The threading may come loose and may also feel a bit stiff.

Bottom Line: Soft, durable, and beautifully braided natural colors—what more could you want? An oval rug is a nontraditional option that makes a great conversation piece and adds a dimension that you just can’t get from a rectangular rug.

 

Pros: When you pile it high, you might as well do it the right way with a shag rug. This one from Unique Loom is made of polypropylene and has a cotton backing for a comfortable fit on your floor. Although it may look too thick to handle, cleaning it is quite simple. Just spot clean it with a carpet cleaner and then vacuum it with suction only or shake it off outside.

Cons: It’s quite flimsy and thin, so it may not hold up well in the long run.

Bottom Line: If you need to cushion your cold, hard floors, this shag rug is a solid solution. Soften up your doorway, office area, or reading corner with this lush choice that comes in almost every color you can imagine.

Final Thoughts

Open up your living room, upgrade the decor, or make the floor seem more inviting and cozy with a 9×12-foot rug. It’s an all-in-one solution to show off your taste and style while creating dimension to your space. From thick and plush to low-pile jute, you can give your feet and home what it deserves.