How to Put a Rug in a Bedroom?

Rugs can add comfort, visual interest and even help define spaces within a bedroom. But with so many options for sizes, shapes and layouts, you may be wondering: how do you properly put a rug in a bedroom?

As a reliable custom rugs manufacturer, I’m going to walk you through the complete process, from choosing the right rug size to optimal placement. By the end, you’ll have the know-how to pick the perfect rug to elevate your bedroom.

How to Put a Rug in a Bedroom

Choose the Right Bedroom Rug Size

When deciding what size rug to get for your bedroom, the first thing to consider is your bed size. A properly-sized rug should have 18-24 inches of clearance on all sides once placed under the bed.

Here are the standard rug size recommendations based on bed sizes:

• Twin/Full Beds: 5′ x 8′ or larger
• Queen Beds: 6′ x 9′ or larger
• King Beds: 8′ x 10′ or larger

So for a queen bed, a 6′ x 9′ rug allows for ample room to step onto when getting in and out of bed.

Where to Place a Rug in a Bedroom

Once you choose the right rug size for your space, next up is optimal placement.

The most popular spot is right under the bed. This helps anchor the room’s focal point while adding comfort underfoot. But you also have a few other good options:

1. Under the Bed

Placing an area rug under the bed is the most common and effective layout. Situate it so the entire underside of the bed sits atop the rug, while maintaining 18-24 inches of clearance on all sides.

The rug should at least extend to the outer legs of the nightstands, creating a unified foundation. For a more enveloping look, size up the rug to reach the headboard.

2. Foot of the Bed

Putting a rug at the foot of the bed builds on the main one underneath, distinguishing a walkway. Anchor it so the legs of a bench catch the edge, leaving several inches extended on either side.

For open footboard bed frames without a bench, center the rug a couple feet away from the foot of the mattress.

3. Next to the Bed

Flanking smaller rugs along one or both sides of the bed makes for handy touchdown spots when getting up. Typically, these are 2′ to 3′ wide runner rugs, spanning around the same length as the bed itself.

How to Put a Rug in a Small Bedroom

The principles remain the same for putting an area rug in a small bedroom. The main difference is you likely can’t fit an oversized rug wall-to-wall underneath the bed frame.

But no need to fret about cramped quarters limiting your rug placement options. You still have great alternatives that even help maximize space:

• Under Part of the Bed: Size up the rug to catch at least the two bottom corners of the bed. Allow for your typical 18 to 24 inches of clearance.
• Custom Runner: Invest in a tradition-length runner or even bound rugs to entirely flank the bed, offering landing pads on both sides.
• At an Angle: Put the rug diagonally across the corner to craft a dedicated sitting area that feels like its own space.

Design Tips for Bedroom Rugs

Beyond getting the size and positioning right, keep these design considerations in mind:

• Anchor the rug under key furniture like the bed, dresser and sitting area to craft a visually unified foundation.
• Use a rug to define a separate zone in an open floor plan, like under a lounging corner.
• Layer multiple sizes, textures and shapes of rugs for visual interest.
• Avoid dark-colored rugs in small bedrooms, which absorb light and feel heavier.

Summing Up

Rugs provide the foundation upon which you layer the rest of your bedroom décor. Place them thoughtfully under or around your bed first and foremost.

Then build on that base by adding complementary rugs under dressers, sitting areas and walkways throughout the space. Choose quality area rugs in the right size for your room and bed to craft a polished, pulled together look.

With this knowledge in your back pocket, you’re ready to pick that perfect, posh rug to elevate your bedroom. So go forth and shop: your dreamy rug awaits!