Are you in the market for a new rug to go under your dining room table or kitchen table? Choosing the right size can make all the difference in the overall look and functionality of your space. While there are no hard and fast rules, following a general guideline can ensure that your rug is proportionate and complements your table and chairs. In this article, we will explore the rule of thumb for sizing a dining room rug and provide valuable tips for finding the best rug for your space.
The Importance of Getting the Size Right
It's important to understand that the size of your rug plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetics and functionality of your dining area. If your rug is too small in proportion to your table, it can make your table appear oversized and create difficulty when moving chairs. On the other hand, an appropriately sized rug can anchor your table and provide ample space for chairs to move freely.
How to Size a Dining Room Rug
Step 1: Measure Your Table
Start by measuring the dimensions of your table. The size of your rug largely depends on the size of your table, so accurate measurements are essential.
Step 2: Add Extra Space
To ensure that your rug accommodates the seating area around your table, add a minimum of 18 to 24 inches on each side. This extra space allows the chair legs to sit comfortably on the rug, even when the chairs are pushed back.
For example, if you have a rectangular table measuring 4 feet by 6 feet, your rug should be at least 7 feet by 9 feet (48 inches + 18 inches + 18 inches for width and 60 inches + 18 inches + 18 inches for length).
Keep in mind that standard rug sizes are typically 8x10 or 6x9 or 10x12, so choose a size that is at least as big as the formula suggests.
Does the Shape of Your Table Matter?
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a round rug for a round table or a square rug for a square table. Rectangular rugs, which are the most common, work well for any shape of table.
If you are concerned about the rug being too large for your space, ensure that the edge of the rug is at least 12 inches away from any dining room furniture that is against a wall. In cases where you have a small dining table that can't be placed in the middle of the space, going without a rug is always an option.
Best Rug Options for Dining Spaces
Now that we've covered the essential sizing guidelines, let's explore some of the best rug options for dining spaces. If budget is no constraint, wool rugs are the top choice. Wool rugs naturally resist dirt, making them easy to maintain. However, they tend to be more expensive.
For larger rugs that fit most tables, you can find beautiful options for under $400. If you're looking for more affordable materials, natural fiber rugs like jute or seagrass, as well as synthetic rugs, are excellent options. While synthetic rugs may not last as long as wool rugs, they are affordable and easy to clean.
Where to Find Budget-Friendly Rugs
If you're on a budget, Overstock and Amazon offer a wide selection of synthetic and natural fiber rugs. It's important to invest in a good rug pad, as it can enhance the overall feel and durability of the rug. Felted rug pads from Overstock are highly recommended for a luxurious, expensive rug-like experience.
For those seeking a forever rug, wool is the way to go. However, before making a purchase, it's helpful to weigh the pros and cons of wool rugs.
Here are a few of our favorite rug options for 2022, including the one we recently bought. These rugs feature beautiful patterns and colors and are offered by reputable manufacturers such as Safavieh and NuLOOM.
- My dining room rug from Amazon.
- Safavieh rug from Amazon: This rug comes in various sizes and color combinations at an affordable price point, even for an 8x10 rug.
- The muted rug: Offering different sizes and color options, this rug complements a range of design styles.
- Natural fiber rug: Although not as soft as other options, this rug is highly durable and suits various design aesthetics.
If the featured colors don't match your preferences, don't worry. Many of these rugs are available in different patterns and colors.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect-sized rug for your dining room. If you make a purchase, we'd love to see a photo of your new rug! And if you enjoyed this article, you might also like our mid-century dining room redo.