This “Cloud-Like” Rug Makes My Tiny Apartment Feel So Much Bigger (It’s on Major Sale!)

updated Feb 14, 2025

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Living room with overhead wood beam decorated by blue and white plates, rust leather sofa, white cube coffee table, leather armchair with throw pillows, hanging plants, large windows, white walls — Credit: Kate Clarkson

When I stepped foot into my new tiny studio apartment, with all of my belongings still in the moving truck downstairs, it looked smaller than I remembered. Completely devoid of furniture, the space seemed so small that I instantly started stressing about squeezing in bulky items like my sofa and dresser. Once everything made it inside, I felt better, but it still looked more cramped than it did when I toured the place.

Naturally, things improved as I unpacked all of my boxes. The real game-changer was when I finally put my rug on the floor of my makeshift living room. It separated the area, and finally, my space looked bigger than it did when the floor was bare. Barring knocking down a wall or clearing out furniture, a rug is the easiest way to create the illusion of a bigger space, especially if they’re a fun color or pattern and the perfect size.

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If you want to achieve the same effect in your space — or simply replace your current worn-out rug — then Rugs USA’s Presidents’ Day sale has kicked off at just the right time. You can save up to 45% on rugs in every style, including the 10 picks below. Just use the code PREZDAY45! Read on to find out which ones are editor-approved, including the cloud-like one that I own myself!

Ivana Checkered Plush Cloud Washable Rug, 5'x8'

$420$135

I love this plush, cozy rug so much that it made our Best List of washable rugs. That’s right: It’s easy maintenance, too! I stand by what I said in my review: “‘Cloud-like’ is usually a description I reserve for bedding over floor coverings. After several months of use, however, I’ve never been happier to have been proven wrong. The Ivana is as buttery as my best set of sheets.”

$135 at Rugs USA

Arrel Speckled Wool-Blend Rug 5' x 8'

$490$247

If you like to have a wool rug out during the colder months, then this editor-loved find is an instant add-to-cart. “Not only is it super comfortable underfoot — and perfect for sitting on when seating is limited — but it instantly cozied up my living room and took its chic factor to a new level,” says our commerce SEO writer, Haley.

$247 at Rugs USA

Elliot Wool Rug 5' x 8'

$304$167

If plush and stylish are two non-negotiables for you in a rug, then Haley is also a fan of this other wool carpet, which she keeps in her bedroom. “I love how it embraces the checkered design trend in the most elegant way without overwhelming the space,” her review says. “I seriously plan on having this rug forever — that’s how much I love it.”

$167 at Rugs USA

Taproot Easy-Jute Washable Striped Rug 5' X 8'

$260$143

In her kitchen, Haley went with this easy-to-care-for jute rug, which brightens up any space with its natural look and light tones. She reports that it held up well after a machine wash and air dry, but its pattern hides wear, so it doesn’t even need to be washed that frequently.

$143 at Rugs USA

Keyara Spill Proof Washable Rug, 5' x 8'

$330$99

Another washable option – which is ideal if you have kids or pets — is this traditional-looking rug. It’s almost 75% off, and it’s suitable for high traffic areas with its low pile and non-slip backing. It has over 150 five-star reviews, so what’s not to love?

$99 at Rugs USA

Beige Native Collage Area Rug, 5'3" x 7'7"

$270$62

The Native Collage Rug is perfect if you’re after a more nature-inspired look. The pops of red interwoven with the green and beige hues are eye-catching, but altogether, it would pair well with any design aesthetic. Better yet, it’s pet-friendly!

$62 at Rugs USA

Skye Modern High-Low Rug, 5' x 8'

$540$152

This rug is worth grabbing if you aren’t ready to introduce a bold print, but you don’t want to opt for a plain shag rug. This one is simple with its single color scheme, but the unique, striped texture creates some interest. Made of wool and cotton, it’ll feel cozy underfoot, too.

$152 at Rugs USA

Faydra Traditional Medallion Washable Rug, 5'3" x 8'

$180$35

$35 is a remarkable deal for a rug, especially when it’s as stylish as this one. It can withstand wear and tear with its low pile, and it can be tossed into the washing machine whenever a spill or mess happens. The classic medallion print is timeless, to boot.

$35 at Rugs USA

Carina Colorful Checkered Washable Rug, 6'7" x 9'

$210$97

Covered in a trendy checkerboard pattern, this rug stands out with its vibrant color scheme. Still, the hues are slightly more muted so it won’t overwhelm your space and complement it instead. It’s selling quick, so add this one to your cart sooner than later!

$97 at Rugs USA

Paddle Rug, 5' x 8'

$330$120

Another more neutral option that adds interest through texture, the medium pile Paddle Rug is great for layering or completing a room that already has a lot of patterns going on. It has an impressive number of perfect ratings, too.

$120 at Rugs USA

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This “Cloud-Like” Rug Makes My Tiny Apartment Feel So Much Bigger (It’s on Major Sale!)

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