How Often Should You Replace Your Rug? Here are 8 Signs It’s Time

Whether you need to replace your rug because of wear and tear or simply because you want to update the look of your space, there are a few common things to look out for. 

Read on to learn when it’s time to get rid of your old rug and replace it with a new one. 

1. It has multiple stains

To prevent spills and dirt from becoming stains, regular maintenance is a must. But even if you clean your rug frequently, stains can still occur and accumulate over the years. When a stain or two becomes the thing you notice when looking at your rug, then it is time for a new one. 

2. The binding is coming loose (and other wear and tear)

If you walk on your rug frequently, normal tear and wear is expected. In some cases, you can even fix your rug yourself. But when the binding starts to come undone, or the material starts to fray, it’s time to replace that old rug with a new one.

3. There is a lingering odor

Cleaning your rug can keep its appearance looking fresh, but it can’t always prevent odors from getting trapped in your rug’s fibers. If you start to notice a funky smell coming from your rug, don’t just light a candle. Replace your rug instead.

4. It won’t lay flat

While rugs are meant to lay flat, over time, due to cleaning or moisture exposure they can wrinkle. This can lead to bulges in your rug or the edges curling up, thus creating a tripping hazard. There are a few ways to flatten rug corners, but if things keep curling up, to ensure safety, the best thing to do is replace it.

5. It has mold or mildew

Unless you have an outdoor rug, moisture is not your rug's friend. When natural fiber rugs are wet for long periods of time, they can produce harmful mold and mildew. If your rug has been plagued by these moisture-based afflictions, it can be nearly impossible to fully reclaim it. Your best bet is to get a new rug and make sure you take care to prevent mold and mildew from forming. 

6. It’s more than ten years old

Ten years is the typical lifespan of a rug. After that long, it’s got a good amount of wear and tear. There are ways to enhance the longevity of your rug, but a decade is a good run.

7. It no longer fits your space

Sometimes you move. Sometimes you get different furniture. Sometimes you start using a room for a different reason than you were before. In any case, your rug can outgrow a space, your space can outgrow your rug, or it can just plain not fit there anymore—be it sizewise or stylistically. Don’t try to force your rug into a room it’s not meant for. 

8. It doesn’t make you happy

At the end of the day, it’s your home, and your home should be full of rugs that make you happy. If your rugs aren’t vibing with you anymore, then it’s a good sign to start looking for new ones.
 

The Replacements

Now that we’ve discussed how often you should replace area rugs, you might discover that the time is now! Need help finding stylish and affordable rugs to replace your old ones? Check out our wide selection of custom rugs today.