Usually, when you think of classroom furniture or school furniture, in general, you think of traditional items, like desks, chairs, and tables. But when you’re outfitting today’s modern classrooms with flexibility and collaboration in mind, you’ll also want to consider the many benefits of classroom rugs. A well-placed rug can infuse a learning space with energy or provide calming effects on young learners.
Many school districts are exploring calming centers and Zen dens right now, as the NEA describes. From school offices to kindergarten classrooms, calming spaces are great places for students to relax, focus, and sensory-regulate. Complementing these spaces, you’ll find classroom rugs with inspirational designs and mood-soothing colors. Today, we’ll help you find the best-fit calming rugs for your learning spaces and young students.
How we chose the best classroom calming rugs
Our specific criteria for the best classroom calming rugs centers around improving the classroom environment, creating different student responses, and encouraging participation and interaction. The classroom calming rugs on this list also have other benefits, including one or more of the following:
Acoustic benefits absorbing noise and reduce background distractions.
Safety benefits provide non-slip solutions to otherwise slippery floor spaces.
Health benefits include our Sprogs lineup of classroom rugs with antimicrobial and easy-to-clean properties.
Best classroom calming rugs for young learners
Bring relaxation and nature vibes to your learning spaces with some of the best calming rugs for students. When choosing the best classroom rugs for your students, consider the following:
Shape and size matter to fit your learning spaces.
Look for non-slip backing to reduce accidents.
Be mindful of student allergies or sensitivities to certain fibers.
Choose a classroom rug that’s easy to clean.
Look for rugs with bound edges to prevent fraying.
Low pile height is ideal for high-traffic areas.
High-density rugs have a higher stitch rate that resists matting and crushing.
Lighter colored rugs tend to open up small spaces and create a warm feel, while darker colors help hide flooring inconsistencies and add a calm feel.
Nylon is a popular rug material due to its tight weave, good dying characteristics, and durability.
Rotate the rug 180 degrees once a year to help prevent fading and wearing.
The rug choices below include bright colors with whimsical designs and are a welcoming visual treat for students. All these rugs feature antimicrobial properties that resist mold, mildew, and bacteria and present a safe addition to classrooms with their non-skid backing and bound edges.
Buddy Time Rug for Preschool and Early Elementary
The Buddy Time Rug features illustrations of paired items designed to foster student participation and interaction. Ideal for young learners, it creates a dedicated space for quiet gatherings where students can comfortably assemble for instruction or group activities.
Sea Classroom Rug for Grades 1-3
The Sea Classroom Rug brings the ocean to life with whimsical dolphins, turtles, and other sea creatures. Its oceanic design makes it a perfect fit for reading nooks or quiet time corners, providing a calming, engaging atmosphere for early learners.
Grass Rug for Grades 4-6
The Grass Rug offers a realistic outdoor feel with the look of lush grass, minus the sensory overload. Its ample size can accommodate several students simultaneously and works well in a classroom calming area or study center.
Nature of Things Rug for Grades 3-6
The Nature of Things Rug depicts a peaceful landscape with a babbling brook, flowers, and shoreline. Its serene design offers a calming environment for students needing a break from the classroom routine while also encouraging space-sharing and collaboration.
Forest Floor for All Grade levels
The Forest Floor Rug captures the natural beauty of a forest with its detailed depiction of leaves, twigs, and branches. It provides a comforting backdrop for students who may be overwhelmed by sensory input. It is a perfect addition to a quiet area or ancillary classroom.
Firefly Rug for Grades Pre-K through 12
The Firefly Rug brings the magic of a summer night to the classroom. Ideal for all ages, it creates a fun and inviting space where students can come together for group activities or imaginative play, encouraging collaboration and creative engagement.
Campfire Story Time Rug for Pre-K through Grade 3
The Campfire Story Time Rug adds a playful twist to group gatherings with a campfire scene surrounded by small "tree stump" rugs. Perfect for story time, music, or group activities, this rug helps students assemble quietly and promotes spatial awareness.
Shapes Accent Alphabet Seating Rug for Pre-K through Grade 1
The Shapes Accent Alphabet Seating Rug serves a dual purpose, offering a fun way to teach the alphabet while providing a structured seating arrangement. With its colorful design and orderly layout, it creates a sense of calm and organization for young learners. The design features different-colored seating areas with a border of alphabet letters.
Where to buy the best classroom calming rugs
Trust your furniture experts at School Outfitters for help in finding all the best classroom calming rugs and more. With our free room design tool, pre-rendered rooms for inspiration, and a complete lineup of innovative furnishings, we’re your one-stop partner. We’ll get what you need on time and on budget, too. Shop our quick ship rugs today or get a free quote on any of the best classroom calming rugs featured here.
