When it comes to designing a baby nursery, choosing the right area rug can be a whole lot of fun. 😄
Not only can an area rug add a decorative touch to the room, but it can also provide lush softness, and a comfortable surface for your baby to play and crawl on!
But it’s also important to consider a few safety factors, like prioritizing non-toxic materials and making a trip-free space.
In this blog post, I’ll discuss some baby-safe rug and rug pad options, share some baby nursery rug ideas, and offer some tips on how to layout the rugs and furniture in the room.
Baby-Safe Rugs And Rug Pads
Before we get into the rug ideas, it’s important to consider the safety of your baby. When choosing an area rug for your baby nursery, it’s important to select a rug made from safe materials that won’t emit harmful chemicals or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
It’s equally important to use a non-toxic rug pad that doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals that could be dangerous to your baby.
There are a few different materials that make safe rugs and rug pads. Wool, cotton, and natural fibers like jute and bamboo are all good options for rugs.
For rug pads, felted wool and natural rubber are great choices. These materials are free from harmful chemicals and will provide a non-slip surface for your rug.
This is why I always go with rug pads from RugPadUSA. Their rug pads are made from natural materials and are certified safe for use in homes with babies and children.
Baby Nursery Rug Ideas
Now that you know how to choose a safe rug and rug pad, let’s discuss some baby nursery rug ideas.
Rug On Carpet Nursery Ideas
If you have carpet in your baby nursery, then adding a rug can help define the space and add some visual interest. Layering rugs on carpet can create a cozy and inviting feel, especially if you’re not a huge fan of your carpet.
When layering rugs on carpet, it’s important to use the right rug pad to prevent slipping and bunching. A felted wool rug pad is a great option for layering rugs on carpet. It also provides an extra softness underfoot that is perfect for a snuggly baby nursery.
Here are some ideas for layering rugs on carpet in a baby’s room or nursery:
- Place a large, plush rug over the carpet, and then layer a smaller rug on top to create a focal point.
- Use a runner rug to define a play area or pathway in the room.
- Layer a round or oval rug on top of a larger rectangular rug for added interest.
A massive neutral rug can go right over the top of a boring carpet, like this nursery:
I like how this nursery uses a fun-shaped area rug on top of their carpet to bring in a bit of personality and whimsy.
Neutral Nursery Rug Ideas
If you’re looking for a rug that will go with any nursery décor, a neutral rug is a safe option. Neutral rugs can be used as a base for any color scheme, and they won’t clash with other patterns or prints in the room.
When choosing a neutral rug for your baby nursery, look for a subtle, patterned rug or texture to add interest. For example, a natural fiber rug like jute or sisal can add some texture to the room without being too bold.
Here are some ideas for incorporating a neutral rug in your baby nursery design:
- Use a neutral rug as a base and add pops of color with accessories like throw pillows and blankets.
- Layer a neutral rug over a brightly colored carpet for added interest.
- Choose a neutral rug with a subtle pattern, like stripes or herringbone, for added texture.
You can see how beautifully this neutral rug looks on dark hardwood floors.
I’m obsessed with this neutral look, which has a very sophisticated modern look, thanks to the dark walls and furniture. The fluffy rug ties it all together and perfectly matches the wooden chair in the corner. 👌
Here are a few neutral rugs that I like for this look:
Nature, Plants, And Animals Nursery Rug Ideas
Nature-inspired rugs featuring flora and fauna patterns can add a playful, colorful and whimsical touch to your baby’s nursery.
Here are some ideas for incorporating these rugs into your nursery décor:
- Look for rugs that feature animals such as deer, owls, giraffes, or elephants to create a playful and adventurous vibe in your nursery.
- For a more subtle touch of nature, choose a rug with a floral or botanical pattern. These rugs can be a great way to add a pop of color to a neutral nursery.
- To enhance the natural feel of the rug, pair it with other natural elements such as wooden furniture, potted plants, or woven baskets.
- Flora and fauna rugs can be used as a focal point in the nursery by placing them in the center of the room or under the crib. This can draw the eye and add visual interest to the space.
I love the natural material used in the area rug to tie together this nature-inspired baby nursery.
Here are a few of my favorite rugs for this look:
Fun And Whimsical Nursery Rug Ideas
If you’re looking for a rug that’s fun and whimsical, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Look for rugs with patterns such as polka dots, stripes, or stars to add a playful touch to the nursery. These rugs can be a great way to add a pop of color and personality to a neutral room.
- For a nursery with a specific theme, such as a circus or a space theme, choose a rug that ties into that theme. This can help create a cohesive look and make the nursery feel more playful and fun.
- A fun and whimsical rug can be used as a statement piece in the nursery by placing it in a prominent spot, such as under the crib or in the center of the room. This can help draw attention to the rug and make it a focal point in the space.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and colors to create a playful and eclectic look in the nursery. This can be a great way to show off your personal style and add a sense of whimsy to the space.
I love the busy rug look with neutral pieces to balance it out.
Here are a few of my favorite rugs for this look:
Nursery Rug Layout Ideas
Once you’ve chosen your rug, it’s important to consider how to lay it out in the room. Here are some tips for positioning the rug and furniture in your baby nursery:
- Place the rug in the center of the room, and position the crib and other furniture around it.
- If you have a small nursery, use a smaller rug and position it under the crib or changing table to define those areas.
- Consider using a round rug to soften the corners of the room and add some visual interest.
- If you have a large nursery, you can use multiple rugs to create separate zones, such as a play area or reading nook.
- Pay attention to the room’s dimensions, windows, doorways, and closets when positioning the rug and furniture to ensure that the space is functional and flows well.
I recently made a bedroom rug placement guide to help you visualize your bedroom (in this case, your baby’s room) before committing to a rug!
Tips for Finding the Right Rug for Your Nursery
Choosing the right rug for your baby’s nursery can be a fun and exciting part of the design process, but it’s important to keep safety, durability, practicality, and style in mind. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect rug for your nursery:
- Consider the size and shape of the room: Start by measuring the nursery and considering the furniture placement to determine the ideal rug size and shape. As a general rule, the rug should be large enough to anchor the room and extend at least a few inches beyond the crib and changing table.
- Choose a safe and non-toxic rug: Look for rugs that are made from natural, non-toxic materials such as wool or cotton. Avoid rugs that contain VOCs or other harmful chemicals that can off-gas into the air. Make sure to also use a baby-safe rug pad to prevent slips and falls.
- Think about the color and pattern: Consider the overall color scheme and style of the nursery when choosing a rug. Neutral rugs are a popular choice, but don’t be afraid to incorporate patterns or textures for added interest. Choose a rug color that complements the wall color, bedding, and other decor in the room.
- Position the rug correctly: Once you have chosen the perfect rug for your nursery, position it so that it’s centered in the room and extends at least a few inches beyond the crib and changing table. Make sure the edges of the rug are secured with a baby-safe rug pad to prevent tripping.
- Shop from trusted brands and retailers: Look for trusted and safe rug brands and retailers that specialize in baby nurseries. Some popular options include Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn Kids, and Wayfair. You can also check for rugs that are certified by organizations such as GreenGuard, which test products for safety and environmental friendliness.
Finding the right rug for your baby’s nursery can be a fun and creative process. By following these tips, you can choose a rug that’s both safe and stylish, and create a cozy, bright and inviting space for your little one to play and grow.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a nursery rug, consider safety, style, and functionality. Opt for non-toxic, slip-resistant rugs with soft textures and geometric patterns. There are tons of gender-neutral options for nursery rugs that can be used for years to come! Neutral or earthy tones also tend to complement wood floors, making them a stylish option for parents too. 😉 Add plush toys for a fun and whimsical touch. These details can help make your nursery cozy and inviting for both you and your baby.
Happy snuggling! 🥰
