Paired with a white bedspread and black bedside lamps, the black and white Mona runner lays a strip of checks along the bed. Pile and backing are 100% wool, handwoven in India, so it belongs with our wool rugs as much as with our bedroom rugs.

A long or angled hall often looks better with two identical runners than with one, and choosing the right size for each keeps the checks in line. On smooth floors, slip an underlay beneath it. Each square is formed by the weave itself, so the black and white grid runs straight from one short end of the runner to the other. The short pile of this hallway runner also suits underfloor heating.

Regular vacuuming clears the loose fibres new wool lets go of, and it is the easiest way to clean your rug week to week. Cut stray yarn ends with scissors rather than pulling them. Dents usually lift with a little water.