Looking to buy a Persian rug for your home? Whether you're shopping online or browsing a rug showroom, investing in an authentic Persian rug is a big decision—and an exciting one. These stunning hand-knotted rugs are not only a beautiful addition to your home décor but also a piece of history and craftsmanship passed down through generations.
But for many first-time buyers, navigating the world of Persian rugs can be overwhelming. From confusing terminology to varying quality levels, there are some common mistakes that can lead to regret—or worse, wasted money.
To help you make the best decision, here are the top 8 mistakes people make when buying Persian rugs, along with expert tips to avoid them.
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1. Not Knowing the Difference Between Handmade and Machine-Made Rugs
Not all rugs labelled “Persian” are actually handmade—or even made in Persia (modern-day Iran). Many shoppers unknowingly buy machine-made Persian-style rugs that are mass-produced in factories, often using synthetic fibbers and patterns printed on the surface.
A genuine Persian rug is always hand-knotted, often taking months (or years) of skilled craftsmanship. These rugs are more durable, retain their value, and become even more beautiful as they age.
How to Avoid It:
Check the back of the rug. If you see individual knots and an uneven pattern, it’s likely handmade. Machine-made rugs usually have uniform stitching and sometimes a plastic or fabric backing.
2. Ignoring the Rug’s Origin
It’s easy to get confused when shopping online, especially when rugs are described as “Persian-style” or “inspired by Persian design.” These terms are often used to market rugs that are not from Iran, but from India, China, Turkey, or Pakistan.
While these countries produce beautiful rugs, they are not considered true Persian rugs unless made in Iran by Persian weavers using traditional methods and designs.
How to Avoid It:
Look for rugs that come from well-known Persian cities and regions such as Tabriz, Qom, Kashan, Hamadan, Bakhtiar, Goochan, Heneghun, Shiraz, Nain, Isfahan, or Heriz. These areas are famous for their unique patterns and weaving traditions.
3. Focusing Only on Price Instead of Value
Everyone loves a good deal, but when it comes to Persian rugs, you often get what you pay for. Cheap rugs might be machine-made, use synthetic materials, or be made with low-quality wool and chemical dyes that fade over time.
A genuine Persian rug may cost more upfront, but it will last for decades (or longer), hold its value, and become more beautiful with age.
How to Avoid It:
Focus on quality over price. If you're working with a budget, go for a smaller handmade rug with high-quality materials rather than a large, mass-produced one.
4. Choosing the Wrong Size Rug for the Space
You can fall in love with the most beautiful rug in the world—but if it’s the wrong size, it won’t look right in your space. This is one of the most common mistakes rug buyers make.
Too-small rugs make furniture feel disconnected and the room feel unfinished. Too-large rugs can overwhelm the room or hide architectural details.
How to Avoid It:
Always measure your space first. For living rooms, your rug should fit under the front legs of all main seating. For dining rooms, the rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond the table on all sides to accommodate chairs.
To learn more, visit: Rug Size Guide: Find the Right Fit for Your Area.
5. Not Considering the Room’s Function and Traffic
A silk Persian rug in a busy hallway? A high-pile rug under a dining table? These beautiful rugs won’t stay beautiful for long in the wrong space.
Each Persian rug style, weave, and material has an ideal setting based on its durability and design.
You can visit our styling guide to help you décor your home here.
How to Avoid It:
Use durable wool rugs or low-pile Persian rugs in busy spaces. Reserve finer, more delicate rugs for bedrooms or formal sitting areas.
6. Not Checking the Return or Exchange Policy
When purchasing a Persian rug—especially online—it’s important to remember that photos don’t always tell the full story. A rug might arrive with slightly different colours, scale, or feel than expected. If you buy from a seller without a clear return or exchange policy, you could be stuck with a rug that doesn’t suit your space.
Many buyers overlook this crucial detail and end up disappointed or forced to resell the rug themselves.
How to Avoid It:
Before you buy, always read the store’s return and exchange policy. Make sure the seller offers at least a few days of grace period after delivery for returns or swaps. Ideally, choose a seller that offers a risk-free trial, home approval, or easy return process, especially for high-ticket items like handmade Persian rugs.
If buying in person, ask whether the rug can be brought home “on approval” to test it in your space before finalizing the purchase.
Here at Pure Rug we offer a 32 days return policy if you are not satisfied for any reason! You can visit our FAQ page for more information.
7. Not Asking About Rug Care and Maintenance
Many buyers focus on how a rug looks and feels—but forget to ask how to care for it. Persian rugs are handmade with natural fibers like wool or silk, and unlike synthetic rugs, they require special maintenance to preserve their beauty and longevity.
Failing to understand cleaning requirements can lead to damage, colour fading, or even irreversible wear over time.
How to Avoid It:
Ask the seller about cleaning tips, rug pad recommendations, and whether your rug needs professional cleaning. Proper care helps preserve the rug’s beauty and value for generations.
8. Not Asking for a Certificate of Authenticity
Buying a Persian rug is often a significant investment, so having official documentation that verifies its authenticity is essential. A certificate of authenticity confirms the rug’s origin, materials, and weaving technique, and it may help with resale or insurance.
How to Avoid It:
Always ask for a certificate of authenticity or detailed information about the rug’s origin, materials, and knot count. If a seller can’t provide documentation, it’s best to walk away.
Make the Right Choice for Your Home and Your Future
Buying a Persian rug is more than just decorating—it's storytelling. Each rug is woven with symbolism, tradition, and incredible skill. By avoiding these 8 common mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to make a confident, informed decision that will elevate your space and last for generations.
Looking for authentic Persian rugs online?
We specialize in handmade, certified Persian rugs—sourced directly from Iran and available in a wide range of sizes, colours, and styles.