Rug Size Guide
Why is Choosing the Right Rug Size Important?
Choosing the correct rug size is crucial for creating a balanced and harmonious look in your home. The right size can enhance the room's aesthetic, while the wrong size can disrupt the flow and make the space feel awkward. This guide will help you select the perfect rug size for various rooms in your home, ensuring your space looks cohesive and well-decorated.
What Are the Standard Rug Sizes?
The most common rug sizes are:
- 3' x 5'
- 5' x 7'
- 8' x 10'
- 9' x 12'
- 12' x 15'
Runners are typically long and narrow, ideal for hallways, entryways, and kitchens.
What is the Most Popular Size Area Rug for a Living Room?
Typically, an 8' x 10' rug works for most living rooms. For living rooms smaller than 11' x 13', try a 6' x 9' rug. Unless your living room is very small, avoid a 5' x 8' rug for the space.
What Size Rug for a 12x13 Room?
For a 12' x 13' room, a 9' x 12' rug can fill most of the space, while smaller sizes like 6' x 9' or 8' x 10' can accent specific areas.
How Big is an 8x10 Area Rug?
An 8' x 10' rug covers about 80 square feet. This size fits comfortably in most spaces, including living rooms, bedrooms, and under dining tables.
What is the Rule with Area Rug Size?
When selecting a rug that will cover most of the room, measure the perimeter of the space and subtract around 5 inches from each side to determine the rug size. Leave a bit more space, if possible, around 8 to 12 inches around the rug and perimeter.
How Do I Choose an Area Rug Size?
Choose a rug size that is at least six to eight inches wider than your sofa on all sides. Ensure there's 30 to 36 inches of walkway between larger furniture pieces if space allows.
What Size Rug for a 9x12 Room?
For a 9' x 12' room, an 8' x 10' rug fits well, leaving a border of floor space around the rug.
How Big is Too Big for an Area Rug?
The rug should be big enough that at least two legs of all furniture in the room are on the rug. If all the furniture is entirely on the rug, it may be too big.
What Size Rug for a 10x10 Room?
For a 10' x 10' room, an 8' x 8' rug is recommended. This size keeps a 12" border between the rug and the walls on all sides.
Is a 4x6 Rug Big?
A 4' x 6' rug is suitable for small spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, or entryways. It's also good for small seating areas or under a coffee table.
Is a 5x7 Area Rug Too Small?
A 5' x 7' rug may be too small for larger living rooms but can work well in smaller spaces or for defining a specific area.
Is a 6x9 Rug Too Small for a Living Room?
A 6' x 9' rug is ideal for smaller or mid-sized living rooms. It works well with a two to three-seater couch or an L-shaped couch.
What Size Rug Should Go Under a Queen Bed?
For a queen bed, typically 60 inches x 80 inches, an 8' x 10' rug is ideal. It should extend 12-18 inches from the bed frame and leave room for walkability.
Dining Room Rugs
Ideal Rug Sizes for Dining Rooms
- 8' x 10'
- 9' x 12'
Placement Tips
- The rug should be large enough to fit the table and chairs, even when the chairs are pulled out.
- Round rugs work well with round dining tables, while rectangular rugs suit long tables.
What to Avoid
Avoid a rug that’s too small, causing chairs to wobble when pulled out. Ensure the rug extends at least 24 inches beyond the table on all sides.
Bedroom Rugs
Common Bedroom Rug Sizes
- 8' x 10'
- 9' x 12'
- 12' x 18'
For a queen-sized bed, an 8' x 10' rug is most common. For a king-sized bed, a 9' x 12' rug works best.
What Size Rug for a 12x12 Room?
In a 12' x 12' room, a 10' x 10' rug is ideal. Leave about 18-24 inches of space between the edge of the rug and the wall to frame the flooring.
Is an 8x10 Rug Too Big for a Bedroom?
An 8' x 10' rug fits well in most bedrooms, providing enough space to walk around the bed comfortably without touching the cold floor.
Can You Put a 5x7 Rug Under a King Bed?
A 5' x 7' rug is too small for a king bed. It won't provide adequate coverage around the bed.
Hallways and Entryways
Is a 3x5 Rug Big?
A 3' x 5' rug is ideal for smaller spaces like entryways, bathrooms, or mudrooms. It's large enough to make a statement but small enough not to overwhelm the room.
Where Can You Use a 3x5 Rug?
A 3' x 5' rug fits well in various areas, including small living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms, or as an accent rug in larger spaces.
Where to Place a 4x6 Rug?
A 4' x 6' rug works well in smaller spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, or entryways. It can also be placed under a coffee table in a medium-sized living room.
What is a 2x3 Rug Used For?
In the living room, a 2' x 3' rug can serve as an accent piece or focal point. Place it under a coffee table to anchor the seating area or layer it over a larger rug for added depth.
What Size Rug for a 13x11 Room?
For a room that's 11' x 13', a 9' x 11' rug would fit well. Common decorative rug sizes closest to this are 8' x 10', 8' x 11', and 9' x 12'.
What Size Rug for a 16x16 Room?
For a 16' x 16' room, a 9' x 12' or 12' x 15' rug would work well. Avoid rugs larger than 15' as they may be too close to the walls.
How Big is a 5x7 Rug?
A 5' x 7' rug measures 60 inches by 84 inches. It's a common size for small living rooms, home offices, or bedrooms with twin beds.
Outdoor Spaces
How Big is Too Big for an Area Rug?
With few exceptions, the rug should be big enough that at least two legs of all other furniture in the room are on the rug. If all the furniture is entirely on the rug, the rug is probably too big.
Best Rug Sizes for Patios, Decks, and Other Outdoor Areas
- 5' x 7'
- 8' x 10'
Examples of How to Arrange Outdoor Rugs
- Use larger rugs to define seating areas on patios and decks.
- Ensure the rug is weather-resistant and easy to clean.
What to Avoid
Avoid using indoor-only rugs in outdoor spaces, as they will not withstand the elements.
Measuring and Choosing the Right Size
When selecting a rug that will cover most of the room, measure the perimeter of the space and subtract around 5 inches from each side to determine the rug size. Leave a bit more space, if possible, around 8 to 12 inches around the rug and perimeter.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Space
- Measure the length and width of the room.
- Determine the area you want the rug to cover.
- Subtract 12-18 inches from each side to find the optimal rug size.
Tips for Selecting the Perfect Rug Size
- Ensure the rug complements the room’s dimensions.
- Visualize the rug’s placement using masking tape to outline its dimensions on the floor.
Is it Better to Have a Rug Too Big or Too Small?
When in doubt, it's often better to go for the larger size. A slightly-too-large rug can make your space feel bigger, while a too-small rug can do the opposite. Use masking tape to outline the dimensions of your potential rug on your floor for visualization.
