When you’re shopping for a rug there’s plenty to think about. You need the right color, the right size, the right style and the right pattern. It must coordinate with the furniture and decor wherever you plan to use it. There different fiber types such as wool, wool-like acrylics and other synthetics. And then there’s pile. You’ll see rugs described as high pile, low pile and mid pile.

If you’re wondering how rug pile matters, don’t let your questions pile up. Read on to see why pile is important and to learn how to choose what’s right with your next rug purchase.

What are rug pile and rug pile height?

Pile consists of the tiny loops woven into the rug backing. It’s the visible tufts on the surface. In some cases, the pile is flat against the surface of the rug and, in others, it’s high and even shaggy. Furthermore, you might notice that these loops are either cut or uncut. Generally, cut loops are more prevalent and lend a softer and more “barefoot” feel.

Pile height is the distance from the rug surface to the top of the pile. Low, mid and high pile are categorized as follows:

• low pile: ¼ inch or less
• mid pile: ¼ inch to ½ inch
• high pile: ½ inch to ¾ inch and higher

What rug pile height is best?

There’s no reliable correlation between pile height and rug quality. High end rugs can come in any pile height. In the past, highly sought-after rugs such as Persian and Oriental rugs have been low pile, but these days that’s not necessarily the case. As higher piles have become more popular, many of the traditional rugs have adapted to match contemporary tastes.

Generally, low pile rugs are sturdier and longer lasting than high pile. But a fine high pile rug will give you more good years than an inexpensive low pile. Other factors such as the quality of the fiber material are more important.

When should I choose a high pile rug?

High pile area rugs are characterized by an especially soft look and feel. They’re great to sink bare and stockinged feet into. They are elegant in appearance but at the same time have a coziness factor. Often (but not always) they’re a single color. They can also be called plush rugs or shag area rugs. Sometimes they’re deliberately made to appear imperfect for a vintage look.

Use a high pile rug:

• For a low traffic area such as a master bedroom, guest bedroom or living room.
• Under furniture to provide contrast. For example, a white rug under dark wood.
• More to cover a small than a large area.
• To bring warmth and texture to a room.
• As an additional rug on top of a large low pile rug or carpet.

Disadvantages of high pile rugs:

• A poor choice for areas that get a lot of foot traffic or in a room frequented by children.
• They can be crushed, dented or marked by furniture.
• Not only may you have to vacuum more frequently, but you shouldn’t use a rotating brush or “beater bar,” as that can catch and pull the piling.
• Dust and dirt may dig into the rug and require periodic stain treatment.

When should I choose a low pile rug?

Just because low pile area rugs are flat and dense, that doesn’t mean they can’t be soft. While many people choose low pile for durability reasons, they aren’t necessarily boring rugs that just lie there. The variety of shapes, patterns and colors offer you plenty to choose from in this practical yet polished choice.

Choose a low pile rug:

• For high traffic areas like dining rooms, rec rooms and children’s bedrooms.
• To ensure more even wear and reduce impact from furniture.
• For large areas as well as small.
• For bolder choices in patterns and colors.
• To eliminate the possibility of tripping on the rug.
• The prevent the buildup of allergens.
• As an indoor/outdoor rug.

Disadvantages of low pile rugs:

• Some (not all) low pile rugs can feel flat and coarse.
• For some, they don’t offer the elegance and luxurious feel of high pile rugs.

When should I choose a mid pile rug?

A mid pile area rug compromises between high and low pile. It’s shorter than a high pile but can still have the “shag” appearance. It’s nice to have at least a mid height ant any place there are bare feet. Like a high pile, a mid pile looks good as a small rug on top of a larger one.

What is a high/low pile rug?

Sometimes high and low piles are combined on a rug to achieve a certain effect. Some rugs have a low pile background with a raised high pile pattern. In other cases, the high pile is a “shag” unevenly distributed to create interest and texture. This often results in a wavy two-toned effect.

No matter the height of the pile, it’s important to care for your rug according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will include cleaning up spills promptly and guidelines for vacuuming your rug. You should never use a beater bar with your rug, no matter the height of the pile.

In summary, low pile rugs are best where traffic is high and durability is important. High piles are preferable when you just have to have the special look a plush carpet provides. But any pile height can be the one to meet the unique need of your floors.