5 Rug Rules: Tips for Choosing the Right Size Area Rug

Shopping for a rug shouldn’t feel like an endless quest, but often that’s the case. Your rug-seeking mission can be made much easier if you begin with a solid plan. 1The right rug should anchor a room, define a space, and make everything feel pulled together. The wrong rug can float like an awkward pancake, making everything look...off.

So how do you pick the right size rug without unraveling your sanity? Let’s break it down room by room with tips that are easier to follow than an IKEA instruction manual.

Rules for Choosing the Right Size Area Rug

1. Living Room Rug Rule

Here’s your golden rule: Your rug should be big enough that at least the front legs of your furniture sit on it.

Ideally, all the furniture legs should be on the rug—but if that’s not possible, just aim for the front legs. This makes seating areas feel cohesive and intentional.

2. Dining Room Rug Rule

Make sure the rug extends at least 24 inches beyond the edge of the table on all sides.

This way, when guests pull out their chairs, they’re not awkwardly catching the edge of the rug like it’s trying to trip them. Bonus: it makes the room look much larger.

3. Bedroom Rug Rule

A rug under the bed should extend out at least 18–24 inches on each side.

If you’ve got a queen or king bed, an 8’x10’ rug is often the sweet spot. You can also choose two runners alongside your bed if you don’t want one large rug. Bonus: Might be considerably less expensive.

4. Entryway Rug Rule

Choose a rug that’s as wide as your doorway—or just a bit narrower—and make sure it fits the visual scale of your space.

If it all possible, choose something durable and washable, because this one’s going to see a lot of shoes, dirt, and 'I forgot my keys again' traffic.

5. Common Rug Mistakes to Avoid

- Don’t go too small—err on the larger side for visual impact.

- Don’t float your rug in the middle of the room with no furniture touching it.

- Don’t forget the rug pad—it protects your floor and keeps things in place.

Ready to Roll Out the Right Rug?

Picking the perfect rug size doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Use the tips above to help guide you.  Just think of your rug as the frame that pulls your designs together and anchors your space. 

Now, what will you do next to love where you live?

Be sure to visit The Redesign Habit to share your redesign stories or reach out with your questions. We’d love to hear what you’re working on.

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Michele

As the daughter of a carpenter who designed and built furniture and a mother who rearranged our living room every few months as Dean Martin crooned through the stereo, my interest in home interiors is equal parts nature and nurture.

My goal is to help you understand how much your home’s visual environment can positively impact your life and how budget-friendly it can be to transform your home. My mission to help you love where you live®.

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