Rugs in your vacation rental are essential pieces that do more than tie the room together, but show guests that you’ve thought through every last detail. They are the finishing touch that makes a space feel curated, cozy, and welcoming.
But the best rug for an Airbnb needs to be more than just pretty. It has to survive spills, stand up to lots of foot traffic, and clean easily between guests.
In this guide, we’re walking you through:
- The pros and cons of different rug materials
- How to choose the right rug pile, color, and size for your space
- Expert tips for selecting the best rug for an Airbnb
- Our favorite top-rated rugs at every pricepoint
- Where to buy stylish rugs at the best prices
Let’s roll out the options.
Rug attributes to consider
Before you fall in love with a rug, you need to know what you’re looking for. Here are the major factors to consider when choosing a rug for your Airbnb.
Material
The type of material is the single most important feature in a rug. It determines how your rug looks, feels, and holds up to cleaning.
Let’s dive into some of the most common rug materials you can choose from:
Jute rugs
Best for: Low- to medium-traffic areas with hard flooring; layering under beds or dining tables; neutral, coastal, or boho interiors.
Jute rugs are made from a natural plant fiber and typically feature a chunky, woven texture. They’re stylish and durable — perfect for casual living rooms or entryways.
What to consider:
- Not the softest underfoot
- Can be tricky to clean stains
- Best used in dry areas (they don’t love moisture)
Synthetic rugs
Best for: High-traffic areas like entryways and living rooms; pet- and kid-friendly listings; layering over tile or hardwood in busy spaces.
Materials like polypropylene or polyester are stain-resistant, budget-friendly, and available in endless styles. They're ideal for hosts who want a low-maintenance rug that can handle messy guests, muddy shoes, or the occasional wine spill.
What to consider:
- Easy to clean (many are machine washable)
- Affordable and durable
- May not feel as plush as natural fibers
Wool rugs
Best for: Bedrooms and lounge spaces; layering over carpet or rug pads; properties areas where comfort is key.
Wool is naturally soft, insulating, and durable. It resists dirt, crushing, and moisture, making it a reliable option for long-term wear.
Wool’s dense pile feels plush underfoot, which guests love in bedrooms and living rooms. Plus, it holds up well to furniture weight without flattening, making it great for layering under sofas, beds, and dining tables.
What to consider:
- Might be more expensive upfront
- Can shed initially
- Needs to be professionally cleaned for big messes
Natural fiber rugs
Best for: Casual and coastal-style properties; layering in moderate-traffic areas; use over tile or wood floors.
Seagrass, sisal, cotton, and bamboo rugs have a tight, earthy look. They handle foot traffic well and add texture, making them great for layering in breezeways, sunrooms, or coastal spaces. These rugs tend to stay in place on hard floors and work well under lightweight furniture, helping to define zones without overwhelming a space.
What to consider:
- Not usually super soft
- Might stain easily; tough to spot clean
- Avoid for messy areas like under a dining table
Hair-on-hide rugs
Best for: Low-traffic accent spaces; layering over flat woven rugs; upscale or western-inspired designs.
Made from real cowhide or animal hides, these rugs are durable and spill-resistant, and they make a bold statement. Their unique patterns and organic shapes can double as art pieces on the floor, adding texture and contrast to otherwise minimal spaces. They're also naturally resistant to allergens.
What to consider:
- Expensive and not washable
- May not suit all guest preferences
- Not ideal in humid or wet climates
Silk rugs
Best for: Decorative use in luxury listings; extremely low-traffic areas; styling on hardwood or over rug pads.
Silk is stunning, with a soft sheen and ultra-fine detail. But it’s delicate and may not be a great choice for high turnover properties, especially family-friendly ones. Even slight friction from shoes or furniture can damage the fibers, and it’s highly absorbent, making spills difficult to clean.
While a silk rug can add elegance to a photo or staging area, it’s probably better suited for owner-occupied spaces than busy vacation rentals.
What to consider:
- Beautiful and soft
- Hard to clean
- Skip unless you’re furnishing a display-only room
Pile
Pile refers to the thickness and construction of the rug fibers — and it plays a huge role in how your rug feels, functions, and wears over time.
Pile affects everything from vacuuming to furniture placement to whether your rug feels cozy underfoot.
There are two types of rug piles — cut and loop — and three pile heights: low, medium, and high.
Cut vs. loop pile
- Cut pile
- These rugs have yarns that are sheared at the top, creating a soft, plush feel that’s great for lounging areas or bare feet. Because of the softness, cut pile rugs are a favorite for bedrooms and living rooms where guests are more likely to relax without shoes.
- Loop pile
- These rugs keep the yarn loops intact, which creates a more textured and durable surface. Loop pile rugs are especially good in high-traffic zones like entryways, kitchens, and hallways. They’re better at hiding dirt and footprints but can feel a bit rougher.
Pro tip: Avoid a loop pile rug if your Airbnb is pet-friendly. Pet claws can easily catch in the loops, leading to snags and unraveling.
Low pile
Low pile rugs have shorter fibers, which makes them easier to clean and more resistant to flattening from furniture. They’re a smart pick for areas with lots of movement, like hallways, kitchens, or under dining tables where chairs are dragged back and forth.
- Easy to vacuum and spot clean
- Great for layering or anchoring furniture
- Not particularly plush—but very practical
Medium pile
Medium pile rugs strike a balance between softness and practicality. They offer enough cushion to feel soft underfoot, but they’re not so thick that you’ll fight with your vacuum every week. Medium pile is a great all-around option for lots of spaces.
- Comfortable and inviting
- Still manageable for routine cleaning
- Can support some furniture without crushing
High pile
High pile rugs are all about comfort. With thick, shaggy fibers, they add warmth and texture to bedrooms, reading nooks, or any space meant for cozy vibes. But keep in mind they’re harder to clean and can trap dust and debris more easily.
- Super plush and luxurious
- Best for low-traffic, low-mess areas
- Vacuuming can be a chore
Color and pattern
Color and pattern don’t just impact how your rug looks, but how well it hides wear, complements your decor, and complements the space.
The right rug can make a room feel curated and cohesive. The wrong one might just look like an afterthought.
Color:
- Muted tones
- Think beige, taupe, charcoal, sage, and dusty blue
- Create a calm, elevated vibe and work well in minimalist interiors
- Especially useful for creating a sense of spaciousness in smaller rooms
- Bright tones
- Think rust, emerald, or mustard
- Add energy and personality to a space
- Great for injecting warmth into neutral rooms or bringing a design theme — like boho, coastal, or eclectic styles to life
- Faded or vintage-look rugs
- Have built-in distressing
- Hide stains, dirt, and wear, making them a favorite for high-traffic areas
Popular rug patterns:
- Abstract
- Geometric
- Ikat
- Stripes
- Oriental
- Floral
Pro tip: If your space already has busy wallpaper or bold wall color, choose a more subtle rug. But if the room needs a focal point, a patterned rug can do the heavy lifting.
Size
Rug size matters more than you might think.
Too small, and the rug looks like a bath mat. Too big, and it swallows the room.
The right rug should visually anchor the furniture, define each zone, and leave enough breathing room around the edges.
Common rug shapes:
- Rectangle: The most versatile shape, works in most spaces
- Round: Softens sharp angles in smaller rooms or reading nooks; works well under round dining tables or in entryways.
- Square: Good for squarish rooms or large foyers, but harder to style with rectangular furniture layouts.
- Runner: Perfect for hallways, galley kitchens, or along the side of a bed in smaller bedrooms.
Standard rug sizes (and where to use them):
- 3'x5': Best for small entryways, bathrooms, or layering
- 5'x8': Works in compact living rooms or under a queen bed (placed horizontally)
- 8'x10': Ideal for larger living rooms or under king-size beds with nightstands
- 9'x12' or 10'x13': Great for open-concept spaces or formal living rooms with full seating areas
If you’re not sure which size to go with, bigger is usually better.
How to choose a rug for your Airbnb or vacation rental
There’s no one-size-fits-all rug for short-term rentals.
The best rug for an Airbnb depends on where it’s going, who’s staying there, and how often it’ll face crumbs, muddy boots, or pet paws.
Here’s how to make a smart, stylish choice that works for your space (and your cleaners):
1. Choose the right pile
Pile height matters in an Airbnb more than you’d think. It affects how easily a rug can be cleaned, how it feels underfoot, and how long it lasts under daily wear and tear.
- Use low pile or loop pile in high-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and hallways. These rugs are easier to vacuum, less likely to trap dirt, and can handle frequent foot traffic.
- Use cut or medium pile in cozy spots like bedrooms or living rooms, where guests may walk barefoot or lounge on the floor.
- Avoid loop pile in pet-friendly Airbnbs — pet claws can snag the loops and damage the rug.
Pro tip: In areas where guests might drag suitcases across the rug (like in a studio or hallway), opt for low-pile options to reduce wear.
2. Select the right material
Different rooms call for different rug materials — there’s no need to use wool everywhere or spend a lot on expensive materials where it won’t pay off.
Ask yourself:
- Do guests often bring pets or kids?
- Will sand, dirt, or snow be tracked inside?
- Will this rug go outdoors, near a wet area, or in front of a sink?
- Is the space formal or functional?
Here’s how to match material to the mess:
- For high-mess or high-traffic zones: Go for synthetic or washable rugs.
- For guest bedrooms or cozy sitting areas: Wool offers softness and longevity.
- For layering or light styling: Jute and natural fiber rugs add texture without being too delicate.
- For patios or outdoor spaces: Pick a durable indoor/outdoor rug made from recycled plastic or polypropylene.
3. Match to the size of the space
Size affects how “finished” a room feels — and how it looks in your listing photos. The wrong size rug can make even the most well-furnished Airbnb feel awkward or cramped.
Here’s a general rule of thumb:
- The rug should extend at least 6-8 inches past the edges of your largest piece of furniture.
- In a living room, try to fit all front legs of the furniture on the rug to anchor the seating area.
- Under a dining table, make sure chairs stay fully on the rug — even when pulled out.
- In bedrooms, size up: an 8'x10' rug under a queen bed looks polished and gives guests a soft place to step out of bed.
4. Consult with your cleaners
Even the best Airbnb rug won’t be worth it if your cleaning team hates taking care of it.
Ask them:
- Can it be vacuumed or spot cleaned easily?
- Is it too heavy to move between turnovers?
- Would a machine-washable rug save time or stress?
Washable rugs are a huge advantage in pet-friendly or family-friendly rentals — your cleaners can toss them in the wash instead of spending time scrubbing.
Also consider placement: Avoid placing high-maintenance rugs near kitchens, coffee stations, or areas where spills are more likely.
5. Consider your style
Not your personal style — the style you’ve curated in your vacation rental.
Choose a rug that fits the design direction you’ve already committed to in the space.
- Modern spaces pair well with geometric or abstract rugs
- Vintage or moody interiors do great with oriental or distressed-style patterns
- Coastal or organic styles benefit from jute, stripes, or neutral-toned woven designs
- Playful or eclectic listings can lean into bold colors or quirky prints
Best Airbnb rugs
When you’re picking a rug for your vacation rental, you have to make sure it can hold up to lots of wear and tear and look good — that’s a tall order!
We curated this list of the best rugs for Airbnbs so you can shop confidently.
We chose each of these rugs for their style, durability, ease of cleaning, and value across a range of price points. They’re organized by price so you can find a rug that fits in your budget!
Budget rugs
The Kota Machine Washable Rug from RugsUSA has a natural diamond grid design in a calming indigo colorway. It’s easy to style and toss in the wash after each turnover.
- Low pile
- Machine washable
- 100% polyester
The Sacha Plaid Washable Rug from RugsUSA comes in a gorgeous shade of rust red with neutral-toned accents. Plus, it’s spill-proof!
- Low pile
- Pet friendly
- Machine washable
The Parker Check Textured Rug from RugsUSA has a vibey abstract gridded design. Textured ivory checks give this neutral rug extra visual interest while still blending into minimalist or modern spaces.
- Medium pile
- 80% Wool, 20% Cotton
- Soft and cozy feel
The Kari Striped Wool Rug from RugsUSA is a modern and minimalist wool rug in a beautiful shade of dark green.
- Low pile
- 100% wool
- Flatweave
Mid-range rugs
The Hawthorn Striped Wool Rug from RugsUSA features subtle, tonal stripes and a dense weave — great for layering in high-comfort areas.
- Low pile
- 100% wool
- Hand tufted
The Tamaris Handmade Rug from Surya is handwoven with tonal patterns that disguise dirt and wear. It balances softness and structure beautifully.
- No pile
- 60% Wool, 40% Viscose
- 0.2" thick
The Granada Handmade Rug from Surya is a stunner and a great choice for modern spaces with clean-lined furniture.
- Low pile
- 100% wool
- Loop pile
The Harrow Handmade Rug from Surya is a machine washable wool rug that’s plush yet durable.
- High pile
- Machine washable
- 100% wool
The Madelyn Handmade Rug from Surya uses earthy tones and vintage-style distressing to provide a timeless appeal that works in traditional or rustic interiors.
- Low pile
- 100% wool
- 0.39” thick
Premium rugs
The Gunner Stripe Machine Washable Rug from Annie Selke is a high-end machine washable option with classic stripes in a soft, neutral palette — ideal for upscale, pet-friendly listings.
- Low pile
- 100% polyester
- Machine washable
The Ana Ticking Machine Washable Rug from Annie Selke adds a bright, breezy feel to any space. The machine-washable construction makes it effortless to clean.
- Low pile
- 100% polyester
- Machine washable
The Malta Handwoven Wool Rug from Annie Selke provides soft texture with a subtle herringbone pattern. It’s durable yet beautiful — perfect for vacation rentals.
- Low pile
- 95% wool / 5% cotton / 3% polyester
- Pet friendly
The Kali Handwoven Jute Rug from Annie Selke is made from natural jute with a tight weave, making it perfect for coastal and organic interiors. Bonus: It handles wear with ease.
- Medium pile
- 80% jute / 15% cotton / 5% polyester
- Responsibly sourced materials
Bonus: Our favorite door mats
The ¡Hola! Doormat from Balta Rugs is the perfect way to welcome guests — they’ll be smiling before they even step foot inside.
Balta Rugs’ Pink Squiggle Stripes Doormat is so cute we can’t handle it! Perfect for bold and eclectic vacation rentals.
The Hello Goodbye Doormat from Balta Rugs is undeniably cute and will add a little personality to your space.
Where to buy the best Airbnb rugs
There’s no better place to shop rugs for your Airbnb than Minoan!
With Minoan, you can shop top rug brands at insider prices — up to 60% off retail. You’ll also get a centralized platform to manage your orders and a digital showroom that lets guests shop their stay.
You’re investing in an important piece for your vacation rental — Minoan is here to help you save.
Our favorite rug brands
- Balta Rugs: Fun, stylish, and perfect for entryways and small spaces.
- RugsUSA: Affordable, high-traffic rugs in every color and size.
- Surya: Durable, designer-level rugs for upscale spaces.
- Annie Selke: Chic, washable, and full of personality.
- Tumble: Pet- and kid-friendly rugs with a low-profile design.
Airbnb rug FAQs
What is the most durable type of rug?
Synthetic rugs are the most durable type of rug – especially those made from polypropylene.
Synthetic rugs resist stains, moisture, and wear better than natural fibers, making them ideal for high-traffic areas, families, or long-term guests.
Wool is another durable rug material that holds up beautifully over time, though it requires a bit more maintenance.
Should I get a washable rug for an Airbnb?
We think machine washable rugs are a great choice for Airbnbs!
The best washable rugs make clean-up faster between guests and save you money on professional rug cleaning. They’re especially great for dining rooms, entryways, or any room prone to spills or heavy foot traffic.
Just be sure your rug fits in a standard size machine, or choose one designed for easy laundering.
What is the best pet-friendly rug?
The best pet-friendly rugs are low-pile, tightly woven synthetic rugs.
They’re durable, resist odor and stains, and are easy to clean if accidents happen. Avoid loop pile rugs — pets’ nails can catch and pull the loops.
Washable rugs are also a smart choice in pet-friendly listings.
How do you clean a rug in an Airbnb?
- Vacuum between guests to remove dust and debris.
- Spot clean any stains with a rug-safe solution and cloth.
- For deeper cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions — many synthetic and washable rugs can go straight into the washing machine.
- For wool or natural fiber rugs, you may need occasional professional cleaning.
Do I need a rug pad?
Yes, you should invest in a rug pad for your Airbnb rug.
Rug pads not only prevent your rug from slipping, but also protect your floors, extend the life of the rug, and make thin rugs feel a bit cushier underfoot. They're especially important if you're placing a rug over hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring.