The Ultimate Rug Sizing Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Rug Size for Every Room
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Looking for the best rug size for your living room, bedroom, or dining space? You’re in the right place. Our rug sizing guide will help you avoid the most common decorating mistake: choosing a rug that’s too small. These rug buying rules will help you get it right the first time.
Rug Buying Rules: The Basics You Shouldn’t Skip
Before you fall in love with a design, get your measurements right. Here’s your checklist:
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Keep rugs at least 4 inches from all walls. This keeps your space from feeling cramped and allows the room to breathe.
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The front legs of your furniture should sit on the rug. This applies to sofas, chairs, and accent pieces.
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In dining rooms, make sure chairs still sit on the rug even when pulled out.
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When in doubt, size up. Larger rugs anchor your room and create a more finished look.
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Use painter’s tape to visualize the rug in your space before purchasing—or go custom and let us create the perfect fit.
Living Room Rug Size Guide
Wondering what size rug works best for your living room? Here’s the simple truth: bigger is better.
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Small Spaces: An 8x10 rug is ideal for grounding your coffee table and fitting the front legs of your furniture.
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Larger Living Rooms: A 9x12 rug or larger creates a seamless, anchored space.
Pro Tip: Avoid the “floating rug” look. Your rug should connect your furniture—not sit isolated in the middle of the floor.
Dining Room Rug Size Guide
Avoid the rug edge chair shuffle with these tips:
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Your rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond your dining table on all sides to accommodate pulled-out chairs.
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For a 4-seater table, a 6x9 rug typically works well.
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For larger dining tables, opt for an 8x10, 9x12, or a made to order custom-sized rug.
This is the perfect room to consider a custom sized rug, especially if your table is round, oval, or unusually long.
Bedroom Rug Size Guide
Wake up to softness, not cold floors. Here’s how to size a rug under your bed:
- Full Bed: A 6x9 rug is great, but 8x10 gives better coverage to create a cozy, inviting space.
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Queen Bed: Like a full size bed, a 6x9 rug is great, but 8x10 gives better coverage to create a cozy, inviting space. Bigger room? You may need to size up to a 9x12.
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King Bed: A 9x12 or 10x14 rug provides full balance and beauty.
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Placement tip: Position the rug under the bottom two-thirds of the bed, so your nightstands remain off and the rug creates a gorgeous border that will keep those feet warm when you wake up.
Searching for the best rug size under a king bed in a very large or uniquely shaped room? Made to order rugs with custom sizing can give your bedroom a polished, luxurious feel.
Hallway Runner Rug Guide
Hallway runners make a big impact in narrow spaces. Here’s how to get the size right:
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Choose a runner that leaves 2–6 inches of exposed flooring on each side.
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Use long, lean designs to guide foot traffic and create visual flow.
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Looking for made to order custom hallway rugs? We can help you create the perfect fit, no matter the layout.
Top Rug Buying Tips: From Style to Function
1. Measure First, Shop Later
Use painter’s tape or newspapers to lay out your rug size before you commit. No regrets.
2. Layer Rugs Like a Designer
Pair a smaller statement rug (like our hand-knotted Oushak) with a large natural fiber rug for depth, contrast, and style.
3. Don’t Skip the Rug Pad
A high-quality rug pad prevents slipping, protects floors, and adds a soft, luxurious feel underfoot.
Why Choose a Custom Rug?
Standard rug sizes don’t work for every space—and they shouldn’t have to.
Whether you’re styling an oversized living room, a narrow hallway, or a dining nook that doesn’t fit the mold, a custom-sized rug ensures your space feels complete. We have many options available in any size to fit your vision.
Still Wondering What Size Rug You Need? Let’s Chat.
Choosing the perfect rug takes more than luck—it takes vision. And if you're not quite sure which size to choose or whether you need a custom rug, we're here to help.
Reach out today, and let’s find (or create!) the rug that brings your space to life.