Which Binding Is Right for Me?

Published June 2016 | Updated March 2024

Almost every area rug we sell has to have a binding applied to it or else it will come unraveled! Some clients hate the look of a bound rug and want the bound edge to just “go away.” Others love the look of a binding and would like to show as much as possible on the face of the rug. And then there are some clients who even want a double border. The binding is usually the first thing to show dirt. I always tell my clients that if they don’t want to worry about the wear of a binding or could do without one, then they should do a serged edge. If they insist on using a binding but want it to be cleanable, then I point them towards one of our microfiber, poly or faux leather. All of these materials can be cleaned with soap and water and are very durable. Some of our purist clients, prefer all natural and will go with a cotton or linen binding. My rule of thumb is, high traffic—serged or synthetic binding, low traffic—serged or natural binding. As far as showing the width of the binding, it really is a personal choice. A rough guide: the larger the rug, the wider the binding on the face, unless of course you just want it to “go away.”  One last thing to keep in mind… a binding doesn’t add to the overall width of the rug.

A Recap on Rug Bindings:

Serged Edge: shows the least amount on face; usually can match the color of the weave; doesn’t show dirt; wears easily.

Cotton: fun colors; natural look; hard to clean; can show up to 3 1/4” on the face.

Polyester/ Microfiber: synthetic; easy to clean; looks natural.

Faux Leather & Leatheressence: looks natural but is easy to clean.

Linen: great texture; natural; can show 3 1/4” on face; hard to clean.