Rugs come in all shapes, sizes, colors and pile heights. And when it comes to pile height, one of the most common options is the low pile rug.
But what exactly makes a rug “low pile”? And what are the pros and cons of choosing a low pile rug for your home? In this comprehensive guide, as a professional custom rugs manufacturer, we’ll break down everything you need to know about low pile rugs.
What Does “Low Pile” Mean?
Let’s start with the basics.
The “pile” of a rug refers to the length of the fibers or loops. Rugs can have high pile (long fibers), low pile (short fibers) or something in between.
Specifically, a low pile rug has fibers that are 1/4 inch or less from the backing. This makes the rug’s surface smooth and flat.
Low pile rugs almost have a “woven” look to them. And you’ll be able to see a bit of the foundation or backing peeking through the rug’s surface.
Here’s a close up example of a low pile rug’s surface:
The short fibers and tight weave is the defining characteristic of a low pile rug.
This smooth, flat surface gives low pile rugs a sleek, modern aesthetic. So they work incredibly well for contemporary, minimalist and industrial spaces.
Key Benefits of Choosing a Low Pile Rug
There are a few key reasons that a low pile rug makes a great choice for certain rooms and homes.
1. Durability
The tight weave of a low pile rug makes it extremely durable.
And because there are almost no fibers exposed, low pile rugs resist catching, pulling and fraying exceptionally well. This makes them a very long-lasting floor covering.
In fact, low pile rugs can even handle high foot traffic areas like hallways and entryways.
2. Easy Maintenance
Along the same lines, low pile rugs are a breeze to clean and care for.
Again, there’s nowhere for dirt, dust and debris to hide on a low pile rug’s smooth surface. So you can keep these rugs looking great with regular vacuuming.
Low pile rugs are also less prone to major spills and stains given their tight weave.
3. Affordability
Low pile rugs like flatweaves are on the affordable end of the area rug spectrum.
The lack of thick piles and the simplicity of the weaving process keeps the cost down.
So if you’re looking for an area rug on a budget, low pile styles make a great choice. Especially considering how durable they are.
4. Versatile Styling
Thanks to their simple, understated look, low pile rugs blend into both traditional and contemporary room designs.
Use one to add a subtle pop of color or pattern to a modern white and grey space.
Or layer a vintage Persian-inspired low pile rug over hardwood to give a traditional living room a decorative floor covering.
Either way, you can’t go wrong with a low pile rug when it comes to versatility.
5. Perfect for High-Traffic Areas
We’ve touched on this benefit already. But it’s worth emphasizing again that low pile rugs stand up exceptionally well to foot traffic.
So they make ideal choices for entryways, hallways, kitchens, dining rooms, home offices and kids’ bedrooms.
Really, you can use a low pile almost anywhere thanks to its durability. But high traffic areas are where it really shines.
Downsides of Choosing a Low Pile Rug
Low pile rugs have a lot going for them. But there are a few potential downsides to consider as well:
- Lack visual interest – The smooth, flat surface can read as “boring” in some spaces. So low pile probably isn’t the best choice for your main living area where you want an eye-catching floor covering.
- Not as soft – Given the lack of plush piles, low pile rugs don’t have the same cushy, foot-friendly feel as higher pile rugs.
- Show wear faster – Even though low pile rugs are extremely durable, any wear and tear on the surface is highly visible. So these rugs can start to look worn faster than high pile rugs where flaws blend into the piles.
- Not great for cold climates – Low pile doesn’t provide much in the way of insulation or warmth. So if you live in a colder environment, you may want something thicker.
Examples of Popular Low Pile Rug Styles
There are a few specific low pile rug types that make great choices:
Flatweave Rugs
Flatweave rugs like dhurries are a popular style of low pile rug. The threads are woven very tightly with almost no piles at all.
These rugs lay completely flat against the floor. And they can work in literally any room.
Kilims
Kilims are another style of flatwoven low pile rug. But unlike dhurries, Kilims often feature very intricate tribal-inspired geometric patterns.
So they add a ton of visual interest, despite the lack of plush piles.
Braided Rugs
Braided rugs are made by literally braiding together fabric strips. This results in a durable low pile rug perfect for layering in high-traffic zones.
And the use of varying colors and fabrics gives braided rugs almost a handicraft type of appeal.
Wool Loop Pile Rugs
Wool loop pile rugs are made up of small, tight wool loops. So they have the slightest hint of pile while retaining an overall flat, smooth surface.
The natural wool material also makes these rugs very durable and resistant to shedding.
Finding the Perfect Low Pile Rug
Now that you know what a low pile rug is and the benefits it offers, how do you find the perfect one for your space?
Here are a few quick tips:
- Take measurements beforehand so you get the exact size rug you need
- Decide on a budget and stick to low pile styles in your price range
- Browse online first to get a feel for color/pattern options
- Opt for natural fibers like wool, cotton or jute for durability
- Feel free to layer your low pile rug on top of carpet or hardwood
- Play around with placement before committing to a spot
The most important thing is choosing a low pile rug style and size that fits your home’s needs and design aesthetic.
Thanks the durability and affordability of these rugs, you really can’t go wrong installing one in most areas of your home.
So don’t be afraid to get creative with a flatweave, Kilim, braided or loop pile rug!
Summary: Why Choose a Low Pile Rug?
To wrap things up, here’s a quick summary of why a low pile rug makes an excellent floor covering option:
- Extremely durable construction
- Smooth, sleek contemporary appearance
- Easy maintenance with simple vacuuming
- Budget-friendly price point
- Visually unobtrusive and versatile styling
- Perfect for layering and high-traffic areas
Hopefully this guide gave you a better idea of what low pile rugs have to offer. Thanks to their practicality and subtle styling, they can work beautifully in just about any room.
So don’t overlook low pile as you search for the perfect rug for your home’s needs and design aesthetic!