Are you tired of stressing about rug sizes and want to enjoy your home without the hassle? Look no further! In this ultimate rug size guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right rug for every room in your home. From living rooms to bedrooms, kitchens to entryways, we've got you covered.
Easy Rug Size Guide: The Basics
Let's start with the basics of area rugs. Here are the most frequently asked questions about rug sizes:
What Are Standard Rug Sizes?
Standard rug sizes commonly available at most stores include 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, 6x9, 8x10, 9x12, and 10x14. In this guide, we will discuss which rug sizes work best for each room in your home.
How To Measure for a Rug?
Measuring for a rug may seem daunting, but it's actually quite simple. Here are some general rules of thumb:
- Leave 12" of floor space between the rug and the wall as a border.
- Make sure that at least the front legs of couches and chairs are on top of the rug.
- Leave space around doors that open inwards, or the door may be difficult to open.
With these guidelines in mind, use a measuring tape and painters tape (or string) to "test out" rug sizes in your space. This allows you to visualize the area with an area rug and choose the right size.
What Is the Best Rug Material?
There are various rug materials to choose from, each with its pros and cons. Here are some popular options:
Natural Fiber Rugs
- Wool rugs are durable, soft, and great for high-traffic areas. Although they can shed, they are cozy, easy to clean, and offer heirloom quality.
- Jute, sisal, and seagrass rugs are made of renewable resources and work well in high-traffic areas. They may not be very soft but add a natural, earthy vibe to your space.
- Cotton rugs are affordable and usually machine washable. They are best used where furniture can anchor them down.
Synthetic Rugs
- Polyester and nylon rugs are budget-friendly and suitable for high-traffic areas. They can achieve a similar look to traditional patterned rugs at a lower cost.
- Polypropylene rugs are designed for outdoor use and can withstand the elements. They are perfect for indoor/outdoor dining areas and require low maintenance.
What Are the Best Rugs for High Traffic Areas?
For high-traffic areas, it is best to choose from the following rug materials: wool, jute, sisal, seagrass, or synthetic rugs. Avoid plush, high-pile rugs that are difficult to clean. Cotton rugs may shift around, so it's advisable to use them in areas where furniture can anchor them down.
Do I Need a Rug Pad?
Investing in a rug pad is highly recommended when purchasing an area rug. Here are the benefits of using a rug pad:
- Keeps rugs in place by providing grip.
- Adds cushioning for a comfortable space.
- Protects both the floor and rug from wear and tear.
- Prevents accidents caused by rugs slipping.
In most cases, it is advised to use a rug pad. The only exception is when placing a rug on top of wall-to-wall carpet underneath a bed. The bed and carpet will keep the rug in place in this instance.
Living Room Rug Size Guide
Let's now dive into rug size guides for every room, starting with the living room.
What Size Rug for a Living Room?
The most common rug sizes used in a living room are 8x10, 9x12, and 10x14. It is best not to choose a smaller size unless you have a very narrow living room. Choosing a living room rug that is too small is a common design mistake. Here are some infographics and ideas to help you pick the perfect rug for your home.
Rug Under a Sofa and Chairs
One of the most common living room layouts features a couch facing a fireplace or TV with accent chairs on the sides. When choosing a rug, one of the main goals is to define the space, especially in an open concept home. It is essential that at least the front legs of all furniture are on top of the rug.
Here is an example from our living room with a 9x12 rug under a couch and accent chairs. You can see that the sofa is about halfway on top of the rug, while the chairs are fully on the rug. A slightly smaller rug would also work, as long as the front legs of the couch and chairs remain on the rug. Generally, a bigger rug is better if your space can accommodate it.
Rug Under a Sectional
Another common living room layout includes an L-shaped sectional and chairs. The same guidelines apply here: make sure that at least the front legs of all furniture are on top of the rug.
Before we replaced our living room furniture, we had a sectional. Here is a photo with a 9x12 rug. As you can see, it creates a cozy and defined space.
Best Living Room Rugs
There are numerous living room rugs to choose from, but some stand out as crowd favorites. We particularly love the printed rugs by Loloi, which you can find throughout our home. These synthetic fiber rugs are affordable and perfect for high-traffic areas. Here are some of our top picks:
- Wynter Grey Charcoal Rug (8′ 6″ x 11′ 6″)
- Beige Ivied Medallion Rug (9x12)
Bedroom Rug Size Guide
Now let's move on to rug sizes for bedrooms.
What Size Rug for a Bedroom?
When choosing a rug size for a bedroom, the main consideration is the size of your bed. A full or queen bed typically needs an 8x10 rug, while a king bed usually requires a 9x12 rug.
Rug Under a Full or Queen Bed
Here is an example of an 8x10 rug under a queen bed in our guest room. The rug is placed about 12" from the nightstands and extends past the sides and foot of the bed. This grounding technique shows off the pattern and adds a cozy touch to the space.
Rug Under a King Bed
In our primary bedroom, we have a 9x12 rug under a king bed. The rug is placed a bit closer to the nightstands to fit the room's shape. As you can see, the rug size creates a similar look to the queen bed example, providing a cohesive and inviting space.
Best Bedroom Rugs
For bedrooms, we recommend using printed rugs by Loloi or their CloudPile rugs, which offer a soft and cozy feel underfoot. Here are some of our favorite options:
- Layla Olive Charcoal Rug (7′ 6″ x 9′ 6″)
- Morgan Denim Multi Rug (8′ 3″ X 11′ 3″)
Dining Room Rug Size Guide
Let's move on to choosing a rug for your dining room.
What Size Rug for a Dining Room?
Dining rooms can be challenging to furnish with a rug, but the same principles apply. Most importantly, dining chairs should remain on top of the rug even when pulled out. The most common rug sizes for a dining room are 6x9, 8x10, or 9x12.
Rug Under a Rectangular Dining Table
Many people have rectangular dining tables. Finding the perfect rug size is easy! Simply pull out all the chairs as you would when sitting down and measure the size needed for all the chairs to remain on top of the rug.
In our dining room, we use an 8x10 wool rug under our extendable dining table. It provides ample space for the chairs to be moved in and out comfortably.
Rug Under a Round Dining Table
If you have a round dining table, you can use either a round or rectangular rug following the same guidelines. Ensure that the chair legs remain on the rug when the chair is pulled out.
Best Dining Room Rugs
Choosing a rug for your dining room can be exciting. Here are some beautiful options to consider:
- Chris Loves Julia Francis Checkered Rug (7′ 9″ x 9′ 9″)
- Wynter Grey Charcoal Rug (8′ 6″ x 11′ 6″)
Kitchen Rug Size Guide
Let's now explore kitchen rug sizes.
What Size Rug for a Kitchen?
Kitchens have different requirements compared to other rooms. Often, a runner is ideal for its long and narrow shape. Standard runner sizes are 2.5 ft width by either 8, 10, or 12 ft length. Alternatively, you can use a rectangular rug for an open kitchen without an island.
Runner Between Island and Cabinets
In an open kitchen with an island, it is best to choose a runner that fills the length between your island and counters. This creates a visually cohesive space. Here is an example with a washable runner between the sink and island, providing definition and coziness to the kitchen.
Rug in the Center of a Kitchen (No Island)
If your kitchen does not have an island, you can still add a rug to create a defined space. Opt for sizes like 3x5, 5x7, or a runner to ground the area and add warmth.
Best Kitchen Rugs
When it comes to kitchen rugs, washable options are highly recommended. Here are some of our favorite choices:
- Ruggable Alessia Dark Wood Runner (2.5′ x 7′)
- Geometric Outdoor Rug (3x5)
Entryway Rug Size Guide
Let's discuss choosing a rug for your entryway.
What Size Rug for an Entryway?
Entryways come in various shapes and sizes, making it challenging to select the right rug. Typically, you will use a runner, a small to medium rectangular rug, or a doormat. The goal of an entryway rug is to create a cozy and defined space to welcome your guests.
Entryway Runner, Rug, or Doormat
Here are three ideas for an entryway rug, depending on your layout:
- For a narrow entryway, use a runner.
- For a large entryway, use a round or rectangular rug to ground the space.
- For a small or awkwardly shaped entryway, use a doormat or small rug.
Best Entryway Rugs
Make a statement with a beautiful rug in your entryway. Here are some options to consider:
- Chris Loves Julia Francis Checkered Rug (7′ 9″ x 9′ 9″)
- Wynter Grey Charcoal Rug (8′ 6″ x 11′ 6″)
Front Porch Rug Size Guide
Let's end with some guidelines for choosing a rug for your front porch.
What Size Rug for a Front Porch?
When space allows, use a 3x5 or 5x7 rug on your front porch. This will fill out the space, create a cozy look, and make a statement. You can always layer a smaller rug or doormat on top. If your front door has windows on the side, make sure the rug spans the full width.
Layer a Front Porch Rug and Doormat
Layering rugs on your front porch adds interest and functionality to the space. You can use a coir doormat for guests to wipe their shoes and layer it with a geometric outdoor rug underneath. This creates a welcoming atmosphere while protecting your floors.
Best Outdoor Rugs and Doormats
When it comes to outdoor rugs and doormats, durability is essential. Here are some options to consider:
- Geometric Outdoor Rug (3x5)
- Coir Doormat
Leave Your Questions Below!
If we haven't covered your specific situation, please leave your questions about rug sizes in the comments below. We are here to help! We hope you found this guide helpful in choosing the perfect rug for your home.
Featured Image: Caitlin Calligraphy Signature