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Even a cheap rug can have a real impact on your space – for reasons both practical and ~aesthetic~. Bright floor coverings give an instant colour injection to drab spaces (we've all rented homes with hideous carpets and boring sofas), while adding texture and cosiness. They also help to pull schemes together, especially in larger open-plan spaces. Trust us, your coffee table will look SO much better anchored on a rug rather than just floating in space.
Adding a pretty rug will help zone your room more effectively as well. Lots of us work from home at least part time post-pandemic, so a well-placed fluffy covering under your dining table-cum-home office will help better separate this area from your lounge space. Top tip? Make sure rugs placed by sofas are large enough so that your furniture sits on the edge, so things look balanced.
Why you should invest in a rug
Aside from the aesthetic factor, there are practical benefits to having rugs. They'll protect against potential floor scratches (helping save your deposit money so your landlord can't take you for damages), muffle footprints on hard floors and trap heat, so you stay warmer in winter.
The only catch is that a lot of rugs tend to be on the spenny side (like, really expensive) – especially the larger options. One solution is to pick up a few smaller, inexpensive rugs and layer them (very boho chic) but if that's not your vibe, don't worry. We've found 25 gorgeous cheap rugs for under £200 to help you decorate your space without rinsing your bank account.
The best cheap rugs under £200
Jute rugs are everywhere right now but this one with a pop of yellow? Unique.
Dimensions: L180 x W120cm
This striking monochrome option gives similar vibes but as it's made from cotton, it's a bit softer underfoot.
Dimensions: W120 x L170cm
Love this colour combo (and it's available in a couple of other shades too). It's made from flatweave cotton so it's easy to throw in the washing machine. That means it's a good option to brighten up your kitchen without fear of it staining.
Dimensions: H200 x W70cm
This is beautifully intricate and we're finding it difficult to look away. The black and white vibe is really cool; if you've got a scheme with a lot of colour in it, adding a bit of monochrome to knock it off a little can make things feel more grown up.
Dimensions: D120cm
Boho vibes forever! Use under a small side table or tuck it under your bed to greet you when you wake up in the morning.
Dimensions: D120cm
This is a great price for a hand-tufted wool number. We like the idea of laying this down next to our bed, but you can get this same style in a variety of sizes, including a longer runner version, as well.
Dimensions: W80 x L150cm
This is fun – almost Memphis-ish-but-not-quite in design. But just as joyful and a good match for all your cute pastel homeware bits and pieces.
Dimensions: L130 x W170cm
One of the most expensive rugs on our round up, but still a great price for a rug over two metres in length. It's really classic as well; this would work equally well with a Scandi/Midcentury/modern/you name it style. A good investment piece for sure.
Dimensions: L240 x W170cm
Your sad old patio will look instantly 10 times more fun with the addition of this vibrant blue rug. It's cheap, cheerful and reversible! What's not to like?
Dimensions: W152 x L152cm
The scalloped edges here are so pretty! If you're looking to add a feminine touch to your space without it feeling too twee, this is a fab pick.
Dimensions: L120 x W80cm
Put this outside to up the fanciness factor of any summer barbecues, before bringing it back inside to keep under the dining room table during colder months.
Dimensions: W120 x L170cm
Very cute – add it next to your bed, in a little corner alcove or on a landing for a bit of extra dreaminess.
Dimensions: L140 x W70cm
A cute touch to add to your armchair or drape over the bed. Very Barbiecore.
Dimensions: L95 x W60cm
Buuut if you just want to keep things classic, here's a white one to fulfil your Scandi/Nordic decor dreams.
Dimensions: 95-105 x 65-70 cm
Ugh, this one is so fluffy – it will be a proper treat to pad across this in your bare feet.
Dimensions: W61 x L91cm
If you want to get in on the checkerboard trend, this is a nice piece. There's a black and white and an all-white version as well, all in several different sizes.
Dimensions: W153 x L213cm
Erm, who wouldn't want to come home and feel like you're entering some cosy fairy woodland retreat? Count us in.
Dimensions: L61 x W91cm
Berber-style rugs are super on-trend right now – and the bright cream tone will really lift your room.
Dimensions: L120 x W170cm
Another good neutral option here – just be careful not to spill red wine on it, okay?
Dimensions: L200 x W300cm
This is a small one, but it's super cute. Put it under a side table or by your bed to add a little bit of interest. Also, it's only £17!
Dimensions: L60 x W90cm
Charley is former Homes Ecommerce Editor. During her time at Hearst UK, Charley wrote over 300 buying guides and reviews, getting her hands on as many new launches as possible to help you find the best products for your home.
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