Welcome to our ultimate guide on bedroom rug placement. Discover the best positioning and layouts for various bed sizes, floor coverings, and room dimensions.
Image: Modern master bedroom with wallpaper accent wall and area rug
Bedroom rug placement is not only crucial for aesthetics, but it also plays a significant role in creating a functional space. The right placement can make a difference in the overall ambiance of your bedroom, from the moment you step out of bed to the comfort you feel underfoot. Let's explore some key elements to consider for different bed sizes and find the perfect rug to complement your space.
Bedroom Layouts and Rug Ideas
At the Foot
Image: Bedroom rug placement at foot of bed
If you have a small bedroom or are on a budget, placing a small rug at the foot of the bed can suffice. This is especially useful if you have a bench that you want to keep from sliding. Opt for a bold pattern that catches the eye or choose a round or unique-shaped rug to create balance.
Doubled Up
Image: Bedroom rug layout with two layered rugs one on top of another
For a maximalist approach, consider layering rugs. Start with a larger rug as the base, then add a smaller rug on top. You can even use a small sheepskin rug for an extra touch of comfort. It's like walking on clouds!
Half-on, Half-off
Create a visually appealing bed frame by covering half of it with a medium-sized or 5-foot by 8-foot area rug. This layout adds a touch of elegance and grounds the bed.
Tip: Consider the shape and size of your bedroom. For rectangular bedrooms, choose larger rugs to cover more of the frequently-traveled floor space in front of the bed. This not only keeps your feet warm as you walk around the room but also protects your floor from wear and tear.Opposite the Bed
Another placement option is to lay a medium-sized rug adjacent to your bed, especially if it's tucked into a corner. This layout can make the room feel wider and more sophisticated, as well as cover up cold or old flooring.
Right in Front
In a long and narrow bedroom, upgrade to a full-size area carpet right in front of the bed. This creates a larger space and adds a sense of grandeur to the room.
Symmetrical Split
The symmetrical split layout creates a cozy and soft space without covering too much floor area. To achieve this look, place runners or small area rugs on either side of the bed, using a grippy-style carpet pad to keep them in place.
The Anchor
Image: Large rug under bed and furniture
One of the most popular placement layouts is placing a large rug horizontally under your bed. This style gives a pulled-together look to the entire space, including your accessories and side tables. Remember, when in doubt, go bigger for a more cohesive layout.
To a "T"
A T-shaped or L-shaped layout can be striking if you choose a bold color and pattern. Not only does it add a visual impact, but it also provides maximum noise absorption, making it ideal for quiet and peaceful sleep.
Choosing Bedroom Rugs for Room Sizes
Image: Attic bedroom with carpet under bed shiplap drawers
The size of your room is a crucial consideration when choosing a rug. To determine the best placement, it's important to have the right rug and bed size for the available space. This can also create an illusion of a larger or smaller room, depending on your preferences.
Area Rug Sizes for a Small Bedroom
For a small bedroom, place your area rug on the side of your bed. Choose a rug that's large enough to almost fill the entire bedroom, as this will visually enlarge the space. Leave a gap of 2 to 5 inches between the rug and the walls to create a balanced look.
Here are some general guidelines for area rug sizes in a small bedroom:
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Twin-size or full-size bed: A 4-foot by 6-foot or a 5-foot by 8-foot area rug fits the bottom two-thirds of the bed.
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6-foot by 9-foot area rug: This size can cover the bed, a bench at the foot, and a nightstand.
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9-foot by 12-foot carpet: Ideal for covering the floor space of two twin-size beds, two benches, and a nightstand placed between them.
Small Room Rug Tips: Smaller rooms require relatively smaller rugs. Choosing a slightly undersized rug can expose more flooring, creating the illusion of a more spacious room. For a twin bed, a 6' x 9' rug is recommended, positioned in front of the nightstands and extending beyond the foot of the bed.
Area Rugs for Medium Room Sizes
Image: Medium-sized bedroom with end rug placement
Medium-sized rooms offer more versatility in terms of rug placement. You can incorporate small, large, or even multiple rugs that coordinate with your furniture layout.
For a medium-sized room with a queen-sized bed, a 6' x 9' rug placed in front of the bed stands and extending beyond the foot of the bed creates a balanced and visually appealing layout.
Area Rug Sizes for a Large Bedroom
For large bedrooms, choose large rugs that fill up most of the room, leaving around 8 inches of space between the edges of the rug and the walls. Here are some guidelines for choosing an area rug for a large bedroom based on bed size:
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Queen-size or king-size bed: An 8-foot by 10-foot or a 9-foot by 12-foot area rug can cover two-thirds of the bed space, excluding the nightstands.
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California king-size bed: A 12-foot by 15-foot carpet can cover the floor space of a California king-size bed, including the nightstands.
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Queen-size and king-size bed: The area rug should extend at least 18 to 24 inches from the sides and the foot of the bed.
Large Room Rug Tips: Larger rooms benefit from larger rugs, which help absorb echoes and create a warm atmosphere. In multi-functional rooms, multiple rugs can differentiate between different areas or draw attention to specific spots.
According to interior designer Savannah, the recommended rug size for a large room with a king-sized bed is 8' x 10'. This layout provides ample coverage around the bed, from right in front of the bed stands to beyond the foot of the bed.
Rug Positioning Guide for the Bedroom
Image: Bed rug position and placement guide
Rug Size to Use Under Bed
When it comes to bedroom rugs, the length should be approximately 18 to 24 inches longer on each side of a queen-sized bed. This translates to an 8 to 9-foot rug length. As for the width, rugs are generally around 5 feet wide. If you want the rug to extend all the way to the nightstands, a width of 9 feet or more is recommended. Here are some common rug sizes for queen-sized beds:
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4' x 6' rug: This relatively small size is best used in a set or as a pair on either side of the bed.
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5' x 7' rug: Suitable for placing under a queen-sized bed, this size works well in smaller spaces.
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5' x 8' rug: Slightly larger than the previous options, this size accommodates nightstands or bedside tables.
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6' x 9' rug: Ideal for average-sized rooms and queen-sized beds, providing space for dual nightstands.
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7' x 10' rug: The largest recommended size for placing under a queen-sized bed, with optimal excess on each side for comfort.
It's important to match your rug size with your bed and room size. For a better understanding of small, average, and large bedroom measurements, check out our guide on master bedroom sizes.
Type & Shape of Rugs
Image: Contemporary bedroom with area pattern rug and ceiling fan
Before purchasing a rug, do your research and consider various factors, such as whether you need a rectangular or square area rug for your bed. Here's a breakdown of different rug shapes:
- Runner: Long and narrow, perfect for placing on either side of the bed or at the end. Runners are ideal for smaller spaces and budgets but should not be placed under the bed.
- Round: Great for smaller rooms, round rugs can fill the space under the bed while leaving room in the rest of the room. Place them in the middle of the bed frame, ensuring they are no more than 1 foot longer than the bed itself.
- Square: Square rugs are less commonly used in bedrooms due to their proportional fit with bed length. However, they can work well in larger rooms where the square shape can be adjusted.
- Rectangle: The most common shape used in bedrooms, especially for queen-sized beds. Rectangle rugs are usually placed perpendicular to the bed, allowing more space for stepping on the carpet.
Rug Material and Style
Image: Master bedroom with large carpet under bed and sitting area
A beautiful rug can set the tone of your bedroom and bring all the decor pieces together. Consider the function, material, and style of your rug to enhance the overall design.
Rug Material
- Natural Fiber Rugs: Jute, seagrass, and sisal rugs offer a chic and organic look. They are durable and suitable for both master and guest bedrooms.
- Synthetic Fiber Rugs: Made from nylon and polypropylene, these rugs are fade-resistant and stain-resistant. Ideal for homes with pets.
- Wool Rugs: Wool rugs are popular in bedrooms due to their color-retentive properties and durability. They are perfect for high-traffic areas, such as the foot and sides of the bed.
Pile Height
Consider the pile height, i.e., the thickness of the rug, to determine the best option for your bedroom.
- Low pile rugs: Easy to clean and durable, low pile rugs can withstand heavy traffic. They have a dense, short, and tight texture, such as flat weave rugs.
- High pile rugs: These rugs offer a plush style and add warmth to the bedroom. Although they are difficult to clean, they create a cozy atmosphere. Shag rugs are a prime example of high pile rugs and work well for layered floor covering styles.
Rug Pads and Maintenance
To ensure your rug lasts, here are some essential care tips:
- Use a rug pad: Placing a pad underneath your rug prevents it from moving or shifting. This is particularly helpful for layouts like the symmetrical split.
- Remove indentations: If your rug has indentations, simply place an ice cube on the affected area and let it melt. Then, fluff up the fibers with your fingers.
- Regular maintenance: Vacuum your rug regularly to keep it clean and fresh. Follow any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Bedroom rug placement can be complex, but this guide should help you create a cozy and serene space. Remember to consider your bed size, style, and lighting when shopping for area rugs. Let the rug's color complement your decor and create a harmonious and comfortable ambiance. Happy furnishing!
To explore more design ideas, check out our gallery of bedroom layout ideas.
