Area Rugs

Most living rooms need an 8’ x 10’ or 9’ x 12’ area rug. This rug should measure approximately 6” to 12” wider than your furniture layout.

Before you measure the furniture dimensions, decide how far you want to place the area rug under your couch. Some people prefer to place their area rug entirely under the furniture, while others only put the front feet of the couch on the rug. 

In the bedroom, use an 8’ x 10’ area rug under a full- or queen-sized bed. A king-sized bed will require a 9’ x 12’ area rug. You can also place smaller 4’ x 6’ or 3’ x 5’ area rugs at the foot and sides of the bed as accent pieces.

A dining room area rug should extend 18” to 24” beyond your dining room table on every side. If, for example, your table measures 3’ x 5’, look for a 5’ x 7’ area rug so the table and all the chairs will fit. 

The best color for an area rug depends on your existing furniture, lifestyle, and goals: 

1. Dark area rugs work best for households with kids and pets. Colors like black and gray help camouflage dirt, fur, and other everyday debris. Darker shades can also make a room look inviting and cozy. 
2. Light-colored area rugs, such as cream and pale blue, are ideal for smaller rooms. They will make the room feel airier and more expansive. However, they may show dirt more easily than darker rugs, so vacuum them regularly. 

Your rug color should also complement the main furniture in the room. For example, consider earthy tones like greens and tans if you have a brown couch. Meanwhile, blue area rugs often complement gray couches. 

1. When in doubt, stick to neutral colors for area rugs. Beige, cream, gray, white, and other neutrals work well with most furniture colors. This versatility lets you keep the same area rug when you change your furniture and design style. 

Wool is often considered the best material for an area rug. Wool rugs have a flexible pile that bounces back when crushed, which keeps them looking fresh for many years. They also have a protective coating that resists odors and stains, making them easy to clean and maintain.

Cotton is another popular and high-quality material for area rugs. Cotton rugs feel luxuriously soft underfoot, so they’re a cozy addition to any space. Additionally, these rugs don’t trap dust and pet hair, so they won’t exacerbate allergies. 

Synthetic area rugs made from nylon, polyester, or polypropylene may work best for some homes. These area rugs are typically more affordable than those made from natural materials. They’re also durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic, pet accidents, and spills. However, synthetic rugs aren’t biodegradable, so they’re not the best option for someone looking to reduce their environmental impact.