How to Choose a Rug Size
The right rug ties a room together and makes the space feel intentional. The wrong size can make even well-decorated rooms look off. This guide covers the rules for choosing a rug in every room, from living areas and bedrooms to dining rooms and hallways.
Measure your room and furniture layout
Before shopping, measure the room dimensions and sketch out your furniture arrangement. Note the size and position of sofas, tables, beds, and other major pieces so you can determine the ideal rug dimensions.
Follow the front-legs-on rule for living rooms
In a living room, the most popular approach is to place the front legs of all seating furniture on the rug while the back legs remain on the bare floor. This anchors the seating area and makes the room feel cohesive. The rug should extend at least 6 inches beyond the front legs.
Size the rug for your dining table
A dining room rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond all sides of the table so that chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out. For a 6-person table (36x60 inches), you need at least an 8x10 rug.
Center the rug under your bed
For a bedroom, the rug should extend at least 18 to 24 inches beyond each side and the foot of the bed. A king bed (76x80 inches) typically needs a 9x12 rug. Alternatively, use two runners on either side of the bed.
Leave a floor border
In any room, leave 12 to 18 inches of bare floor between the rug edge and the wall. This frames the rug and makes the room feel proportional. In smaller rooms, 8 inches is acceptable.
Use runners for hallways and kitchens
Runners (typically 2 to 3 feet wide and 6 to 14 feet long) are ideal for narrow spaces. In a hallway, leave 4 to 6 inches of floor on each side. In a kitchen, place a runner in front of the sink and prep area for comfort and protection.
Quick Reference: Room Size to Rug Size
| Room Size | Recommended Rug | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 8x10 ft | 5x8 | Small living room, bedroom accent |
| 10x12 ft | 6x9 or 8x10 | Standard living room, 4-person dining |
| 12x14 ft | 8x10 or 9x12 | Living room, 6-person dining, queen bed |
| 14x18 ft | 9x12 or 10x14 | Large living room, 8-person dining, king bed |
| 16x20 ft+ | 10x14 or 12x15 | Great room, open plan, banquet dining |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size rug do I need for my living room?
For most living rooms, an 8x10 or 9x12 rug works best. The rug should be large enough that the front legs of all seating furniture sit on it. In a small living room, a 5x8 or 6x9 rug can work if you have a compact seating arrangement.
How much bigger should a rug be than a dining table?
A dining room rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond all sides of the table. This ensures chairs remain on the rug when pulled out. For a 4-person table, an 8x10 rug is usually sufficient. For a 6 to 8-person table, choose a 9x12 or larger.
Can a rug be too big for a room?
Yes. A rug that extends wall to wall looks like carpeting. Leave 12 to 18 inches of bare floor between the rug edge and the walls to properly frame the rug and make the room feel proportional. In smaller rooms, 8 inches of bare floor is acceptable.