A pile height of 10–15mm is practical for a living room, thick enough to feel substantial underfoot, low enough to avoid trapping dirt and to work under furniture legs. Very high-pile rugs (20mm+) are luxurious but can be more difficult to clean and may show furniture leg impressions more readily.

A high quality tufted rug is durable for normal domestic use, though it differs from a handwoven rug in construction. The pile is held by an adhesive backing rather than being woven through the structure, over time, and with very heavy use, this backing can degrade. For high-traffic areas, a quality wool tufted rug on a non-slip underlay performs well.

A tufted rug is made by pushing yarn loops through a stretched backing fabric using a tufting gun or hand tool, then securing the loops with a latex or adhesive backing. The pile can be cut for a smooth, plush surface or left looped for a more textured effect. Tufting allows for precise pattern work and consistent pile height across the rug.

Wool and handwoven rugs benefit from professional cleaning every 2–3 years in a normal household and more frequently if you have pets or young children. Regular vacuuming on a low suction setting removes surface dust and dirt between professional cleans. Rotate the rug every 6–12 months to ensure even wear across the pile.

Wool fibres have a natural crimp that allows them to spring back after compression, a wool rug resists flattening and furniture leg marks better than most synthetics. Wool is also naturally flame-resistant, regulates humidity, and is far more biodegradable at end of life. A good wool rug lasts significantly longer than a comparable synthetic, making it better value over time.