Rug Size Guide: How to Pick the Right Rug for Any Room

Choosing the right rug size can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. A well‑sized rug pulls a room together, while a too‑big or too‑small one can look odd. Let’s break down the steps you need to get the perfect fit without guessing.

Measure Your Space

Start with a tape measure and note the dimensions of the area where you want the rug. For a living room, decide if you want the rug under the coffee table only, under all the furniture, or just in front of the sofa. A common rule is to leave about 18‑24 inches of floor visible around the rug when it’s under a full seating set. That means if your sofa is 90 inches wide, aim for a rug that’s at least 126‑138 inches long.

In a bedroom, place the rug so it extends out from each side of the bed. If you have a queen‑size bed (60" wide), a 60" x 90" rug works well, leaving space for nightstands. For larger beds, step up to an 8'x10' rug to keep the look balanced.

Hallways and entryways are easier – just match the rug width to the hallway width, leaving about 3‑6 inches of floor on each side. Length can be the full hallway or stop a foot before the wall to avoid tripping.

Style Tips for Different Rooms

Living rooms love larger rugs that anchor the furniture. If you have a sectional, a 9'x12' rug usually does the trick. For smaller sofas, a 5'x8' rug placed under the coffee table with furniture legs visible works nicely.

Dining rooms need a rug that fits under the table with enough room for chairs to move out. Add the table’s length and the chair pull‑out (about 12‑18 inches each side) to get the minimum rug size.

Don’t forget shape. Round rugs look great under round tables or in cozy reading corners. A rectangular rug works best in hallways and larger open spaces.

Finally, think about traffic. High‑traffic areas benefit from durable fibers like wool or polypropylene, which handle wear and keep color longer. If you’re worried about stains, choose a rug with a low pile that’s easier to clean.

Once you have the measurements, compare them to the rug dimensions offered by the store. Many online retailers provide a visual mock‑up; use it to see how the rug will sit in your room. If you’re still unsure, order a sample or a smaller rug first to test the size.

In short, measure, leave a border of floor, match the shape to the furniture, and pick a sturdy material for busy spots. Follow these steps and you’ll never guess wrong about rug size again.