This blog post will guide you through the various rug pile types available.
We’ll explain the differences between cut pile, loop pile, and cut-and-loop pile rugs.
You’ll discover which pile types are best suited for high-traffic areas versus low-traffic zones.
Additionally, we’ll discuss how pile height impacts the comfort and feel of a rug.
Start reading now to choose the best rug for your needs!
Pile Height Categories
Rug pile heights generally fall into three main categories:
Low Pile (less than 1/4″ thick)
Low pile rugs have short, dense fibers.
- This results in a flat, tight weave.
- They offer durability and easy maintenance.
- They work well in high-traffic areas.
- However, they provide less cushioning underfoot.
Medium Pile (1/4″ to 1/2″ thick)
Medium pile rugs are a popular choice.
- They balance the benefits of low and high piles.
- They have a moderate thickness that feels soft.
- Yet they are still resilient enough for frequently used spaces.
High Pile (1/2″ to 3/4″ thick or more)
High pile rugs are also known as plush or shag rugs.
- They feature long, loose fibers.
- They provide a luxuriously soft feel.
- But they tend to show footprints and require more upkeep.
- High piles are best suited for low-traffic areas.
Common Pile Types & Combinations
Cut Pile
Cut pile is the most prevalent type.
- Cut pile rugs have the yarn loops sheared off, creating upright ends.
- Cut piles can be low, medium or high.
- They encompass styles like plush, frieze and twist for different looks.
Loop Pile
In loop pile rugs, the yarn tufts remain uncut, forming loops.
- Level loop piles feature loops of uniform height for a neat, durable texture.
- Multi-level loops combine low and high loops for a patterned effect.
- This disguises footprints.
- Cut & Loop Pile
- These rugs incorporate both cut and looped tufts.
- This allows for sculptural designs and visual interest.
- The mix of textures also helps hide marks and wear.
Combining Pile Heights
Some rugs strategically blend low and high pile sections.
- This provides practical and aesthetic benefits:
- Low pile areas provide durability in high-traffic zones
- High pile areas offer softness and plushness in lower-traffic portions
- Varied heights create unique textures and design dimension
- Purposeful placement aids in maintenance, with low piles in dirtier areas
Pile Height & Comfort
A rug’s pile height directly impacts its overall comfort and feel underfoot.
- High pile rugs tend to feel softer and plusher.
- They have a more luxurious sensation, especially when made of wool or cotton.
- They provide excellent insulation and cushioning.
- However, medium and low pile rugs can also offer coziness.
- This is particularly true when paired with a good quality rug pad underneath.
- Low profile rugs constructed of soft materials like polyester or triexta can feel very comfortable.
- Pile density also affects comfort.
- Denser, more tightly packed piles will feel cushier than loose, shaggy piles.
- And as a general rule, natural fibers like wool and cotton will be softer than synthetic ones.
Maintenance & Durability
Low pile and densely woven rugs are the easiest to keep clean.
- Dirt and debris have fewer places to hide.
- They withstand heavy foot traffic and resist matting.
- Rugs with short, tight piles are ideal for entryways, hallways, kitchens and other busy areas.
- Medium pile rugs offer good durability with a softer feel.
- They are suitable for living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms.
- Regular vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning will keep them looking their best.
- High pile and shag rugs require more maintenance.
- Their long fibers are prone to trapping dirt.
- They aren’t well-suited for homes with kids or pets.
- They are best in low-traffic rooms.
- Use a vacuum without a beater bar to avoid damaging the fibers.
- Regardless of pile height, attending to spills promptly is important.
- Having rugs professionally cleaned every 12-18 months will prolong their life and appearance.
- Rotating the rug annually helps even out wear.
- By factoring in pile type along with your lifestyle, traffic levels and design preferences, you’ll be able to select the optimal area rug for each space in your home.
- With proper care, your chosen rug will serve beautifully for years to come.