One of the best things about hard floor materials like wood, stone, and tile is that you can always add some softness and warmth with an area rug. But sizing an area rug for your home can be more difficult than you may think. So, how can you find the right rug for your home? Find out now.
1. Think About Your Budget
First, consider your budget. Smaller rugs like 5x8 rectangular rugs can be pretty affordable, but larger 9x12 rugs may be more than twice as expensive. As a rule, smaller is better if you’re on a tight budget and are working with a smaller room.
Area rugs can also vary quite a bit in quality. We recommend avoiding the cheapest rugs you can find. These are often hard to clean, pick up stains and dirt easily, and may even begin to fall apart after just a year or two, requiring you to buy another rug. Investing in quality is worth it when it comes to area rugs.
2. Consider The Size Of The Room
The size of the room should also affect your area rug sizing. Counter-intuitively, it’s often better to buy a larger rug for smaller rooms – since a small rug can simply make the room look smaller than it really is.
So grab your tape measure, and measure your room. You want to keep at least 18 inches of bare floor between the edges of the rug and the walls. This ensures the rug covers up plenty of space, but leaves a gap to accentuate the flooring material. Going right up to the wall tends to make the area rug look a bit strange – not quite like a carpet, but not quite like a rug.
3. Choose The Right Rug For The Type Of Room
Area rugs are usually placed in living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms. For living rooms, there are three common layouts, and any of them may be right for you.
A small rug, such as a 4x6 rug, that the coffee table rests on
A medium-sized rug, such as a 5x8 rug, that allows the front legs of all the furniture to rest on the rug
A large rug, such as a 9x12 rug or larger, that allows all the legs of the furniture rest on the rug
In the dining room, your goal should be to buy a rug that is large enough to rest underneath the table and all of your chairs. The rug should extend at least 24 inches beyond all sides of the table.
In bedrooms, most people opt for a large 9x12 rug that goes underneath the bed as well as storage benches and nightstands. However, another option is to buy a 5x8 rug, and to place it horizontally near the foot of the bed.
Consider These Factors When Sizing An Area Rug
Area rug sizing can be difficult, but just remember a few rules of thumb. Buy a high-quality rug, make sure you keep at least 18 inches between the rug and the wall, and always consider the size and type of room where you're putting the rug. Keep these tips in mind, and you’re sure to find the right rug for your home.