How to Choose a Rug: Size Guide for Every Room

The most common rug mistake is choosing one that is too small. A rug that is the right size makes a room look bigger and pulls the furniture together. Use these simple rules.

Measure first

Measure the room and the furniture you want on the rug. Mark the rug size on the floor with masking tape and live with it for a day. In most rooms, leave roughly 20 to 45 cm of floor showing between the rug and the walls.

Size rules by room

Living room

At a minimum, the front legs of the sofa and chairs should stand on the rug. In a larger room, a rug that holds all the furniture legs looks best.

Dining room

The rug should extend about 60 to 70 cm beyond the table on every side. That way the chairs stay on the rug when you pull them out.

Bedroom

Place the rug under the lower two-thirds of the bed, with about 45 to 60 cm showing on each side. Or use two runners, one on each side of the bed.

Hallway

Choose a runner that leaves about 10 to 15 cm of floor on each side and stops short of doors. Browse our rug runners.

Standard rug sizes

• About 160 x 230 cm: small living rooms, bedrooms, under a coffee table.
• About 200 x 300 cm: most living rooms and dining tables for six.
• About 250 x 350 cm and larger: large living and dining rooms.
• Round and square rugs: under round tables, in entrance halls and in reading corners. See round and square rugs.

Handmade rugs are often slightly different from these sizes, so measure each piece.

Choose the material

• Wool: soft, warm, hard-wearing and naturally stain-resistant. See wool rugs.
• Silk and part-silk: a soft sheen for low-traffic rooms.
• Polypropylene: easy to clean and suited to patios. See outdoor rugs.

Choose the colour

Take a photo of your room and a fabric or paint sample with you. Colours look different in daylight than on a screen. Shop by colour: neutral, grey, blue, red or multi-coloured rugs.

Still not sure?

We offer a free home consultation in Johannesburg. We bring rugs to your home so you can see them in your own light. See our services.

Want to see the difference in person? Visit our showroom at Unit 1, The Straight Shopping Centre, 78 The Straight Avenue, Fourways. Call 011 467 3747 or WhatsApp 066 114 8411.