Which is better for a large living room?

The Safavieh, because 9' x 12' covers more floor than the BH&G's 7'10" x 9'10". If your seating area fits the smaller size, the BH&G is the safer pick.

Which rug lasts longer?

Both are hooked wool, so wear is similar. The BH&G documents a canvas backing and fade resistance, which helps in sunlit rooms; the Safavieh publishes neither.

Is the BH&G rug soft underfoot?

It has a 0.23-inch medium pile, so it feels flat and grounded rather than plush. Add a pad if you want more cushion.

Can either rug go in a bathroom or be washed?

No. Both are wool and neither is machine washable. Spot clean and use a rug pad.

Is the Safavieh worth stepping up to?

Step up only if you need the 9' x 12' size or want a floral pattern. For a neutral look with known specs and owner ratings, the BH&G is the easier choice.

Will the plaid rug shed?

Handmade wool rugs often shed loose fibers for the first weeks. Vacuum without a beater bar and it settles.

Safavieh Blossom Asher Wool Area Rug vs Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid Wool Rug

Buy the Safavieh Blossom if you need a true 9' x 12' footprint under a large sectional or king bed, and you want a floral hooked wool rug. Buy the Better Homes & Gardens plaid if you want a neutral, fade-resistant wool rug for a living room, bedroom or entryway and a smaller room suits you. The BH&G rug has a documented 0.23-inch pile, canvas backing and a large owner base rating it 4.3 out of 5; the Safavieh is the bigger, more decorative piece with no published pile or backing specs.

Choose the Safavieh Blossom Asher if you need a 9' x 12' rug and prefer a floral pattern over a plaid.
Choose the Better Homes & Gardens Beige Plaid if you want a neutral, fade-resistant hooked wool rug with a known low pile and canvas backing.

Prices

Safavieh Blossom Asher Wool Area Rug: $554.00 at The Home Depot (last seen Nov 10)