We're finishing our basement and I'm trying to narrow down my choices of large area rugs to cover the faux wood floors. I especially need some advice about the type of rug that would survive hard use by kids and a dog (i.e., easy to clean, hard-wearing), but is attractive and comfortable for the kids to play on the floor. I like the idea of a woven cotton rug with a thick pad beneath (I love the simple, Swedish country look), but will it stand up to hard use? Are they hard to clean? Indoor-outdoor rugs strike me as kind of scratchy and unfriendly, although I've thought of using one as a stair runner. Please advise! This is a big financial commitment for us and we don't want to be penny-wise but pound-foolish.