Nursery rugs are great spots for babies and kids to play, so they should be stylish, safe, and durable so your kiddo can move from tummy time to playtime on the same rug. We carefully considered design, material, value, assembly, and any additional features when reviewing products. Here are the best nursery rugs for your lifestyle, budget, and needs. The Pottery Bar Kids Starry Skies Rug earned our top spot because it’s designed to be soft on the feet and comes in a fun pattern. This rug features delicate stars that are appropriate for a baby and age well as your kid grows up. Wool has a natural ability to resist staining and soiling while also being naturally flame retardant. To care for the rug, simply vacuum regularly and clean spills with a damp cloth. The rug is approximately 0.5-inch thick, and a rug pad is recommended for extra support and to prevent movement. Price at time of publication: $299 for 4x6’ Ruggable’s rug is only 0.12-inch thick, and it’s recommended that buyers add either the classic or cushioned rug pad. For the youngest set, the cushioned pad is non-slip and adds more support and softness for cute babies and early walkers. To clean, simply machine wash the rug and place it back on the pad. Price at time of publication: $219 The eye-catching chevron style works with a wide range of decor, and the 0.5-inch pile height fits beneath furniture while still feeling plush and providing noise-canceling benefits. The rug may shed a bit in the beginning but some rounds of vacuuming early on will clean up any extra fibers. Price at time of publication: $190 While not super plush, the thin rug also works well on top of wall-to-wall carpet. Easy to spot clean with soap and water, the rug features a lay flat design so the edges won’t curl. There’s no returns or exchanges on this option, so measure twice and make sure it’s the rug you want. The mix of cut and looped pile adds texture and dimension, while the wool rug is naturally soft and stain-resistant. Regular vacuuming and blotting any spills are all the care you’ll need for this stylish wool pick. Price at time of publication: $449 for 5x8’ The higher pile of 1.18 inches does make it harder for some furniture or doors to fit over, so measure well before purchasing. It’s recommended that the rug be spot cleaned with a mild detergent, and some vacuums may have trouble with the high pile shag. Price at time of publication: $150 The special design ensures there are no gaps for food (or little fingers) to get stuck in. The cushy play mat is available in three sizes and three attractive color combinations and is a helpful addition to nurseries, playrooms, or other spots where babies will be. Price at time of publication: $430 Price at time of publication: $259 Parents praise the rug as well-made and easy to clean. The materials are hypoallergenic and stain-resistant, so it’ll look as good as new even after lots of play time. Price at time of publication: $240 Typically, rugs labeled as “stain-resistant” can repel most dirt and liquids from settling into the material. Just blot with a cloth and your rug looks as good as new.
Durability
A nursery rug will get plenty of use from both adults and kiddos, so you’ll want one that can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. Choose a timeless style and your nursery rug will grow with your child and can still be underfoot when the crib is long gone. Wool is a sturdy material, but can be difficult to clean unless it’s treated for stain resistance.
Comfort
A comfortable, soft rug is essential for a nursery, since you and your baby will likely spend a lot of time on the floor. Ideally, you’ll want a rug that feels good when you walk on it at 2 a.m. and is comfy for your baby to play on. While comfort can be hard to judge online, reviews can help, and some companies offer swatch samples before purchase. If you can’t check out the rug in person, reading its description can offer insight on key features. Look at the size and material of the rug to ensure it’s big enough to be comfortable and if the material is soft enough for little feet (and big ones, too!).
Why Trust Verywell Family
Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of an 11-year-old son, an 8-year-old son, and a 4-year-old daughter. All three of Maya’s kids have wool rugs in their rooms. The styles are neutral enough that the rugs all go with the decor, are easy to clean, and are soft to play on. While Maya is vying for a new rug in her bedroom, it’s low on the shopping list right now. To be extra safe, buy your nursery rug as early as you can and let it air out for as long as possible. If either of your baby’s parents suffer from asthma or respiratory issues, it may be best to avoid getting a brand-new rug for your nursery.
