How to Choose the Right Rug Size for Any Room
A rug can pull a room together or make it look off. Most of the time the problem is size, not style. Use these simple rules before you buy.
Measure before you shop
Mark the rug’s outline on the floor with painter’s tape. Walk around it and check how it looks from the door. Leave roughly 20 to 40 cm of bare floor around the edges in most rooms.
Living room rule of thumb
- Best: all furniture legs sit on the rug.
- Good: at least the front legs of sofas and chairs sit on the rug.
- Avoid: a small rug floating in the middle of the seating area.
Pile height and materials
Low-pile rugs are easier to vacuum and work well under chairs and doors. Soft, thicker rugs feel cozy in bedrooms. Check whether the rug is washable and use a non-slip pad.
Our top pick
Best for defining and warming a room
Area Rug
A soft, low-pile rug that anchors a seating area, adds color and texture, and makes bare floors feel warmer.
- Low-pile, easy-to-vacuum weave
- Non-slip backing or rug pad recommended
- Available in many sizes and colors
Pros
- Instantly makes a room feel finished and cozy
- Softens footsteps and noise
Cons
- Large rugs can be awkward to clean
- Wrong size makes a room look smaller
Go one size up if you are between two sizes. A larger rug usually makes a room look bigger, not smaller.
FAQ
Should a rug go under the bed?
Yes. Place it so it extends past the sides and foot of the bed, so your feet land on something soft in the morning.
How do I stop a rug from slipping?
Use a rug pad underneath. It also protects the floor and adds cushioning.
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