When shopping for rugs, you’ve probably come across size measurements like “8×10” or “12×15” and wondered – what do those dimensions mean and which one is width vs length?
As a professional custom rugs manufacturer, I can tell you this topic comes up ALL the time. And it’s an important question to have answered if you want your next rug purchase to be a success.
That’s why I’m here to settle the debate once and for all: what comes first, width or length when measuring rugs?
Throughout this guide, I’ll cover:
- Why length and width order matters when shopping for rugs
- Standard conventions all rug retailers follow
- Tips for accurately measuring rugs yourself
- Common questions about rug dimensions
And by the end, you’ll be a pro at deciphering rug sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your space.
Let’s unravel the mystery!
Why Order Of Dimensions Matters
When browsing for rugs, you’ll typically see sizes labeled like this:
8×10
5×7
12×15
That format – always listing the smaller number first and larger number second – is not arbitrary. It’s the standard convention among rug makers for indicating length x width dimensions.
And it matters because:
- It allows easy size comparisons across rug styles and brands
- Helps visualize how well a rug will fit in the intended space
For example, if your room is 8 ft wide and you’re shopping for an 8×10 rug, it’s clear at a glance that this rug will be plenty wide enough without further mental math.
Whereas if some brands flipped width and length randomly, you’d have to stop and calculate every time to make sure a “10×8” rug isn’t actually too narrow. Major hassle!
So when it comes to area rugs, width always comes first and length second. Mystery solved.
Standard Width x Length Format For Rugs
I’ll say it again for the people in back:
Width x Length is the standard format.
That said, let me anticipate a few follow-up questions I often get:
Q: What if the rug isn’t perfectly rectangular?
A: Great question! Yes, not all rugs have exact width and length dimensions if they’re oval, round, or other creative shapes.
In those cases, the maximum width and length points are typically provided instead.
For example, a 5×7 oval rug would measure 5 ft at its widest spot and 7 ft from top to bottom at its longest point.
Q: Do fringe and borders count?
A: Nope! When stating rug dimensions, fringe and borders are not factored into the main width x height measurements.
Those details are usually spelled out separately in product descriptions or specs if relevant.
So an 8×10 rug with 2″ fringe would still be listed as simply 8×10.
Q: Can width ever exceed length for rugs?
A: Technically yes for odd-shaped specialty rugs (like hallway runners). But 99% of traditional rectangular area rugs will always list length first since it’s the greater of the two numbers.
Hopefully that clears up why width x length order matters, as well as what the convention entails!
How To Measure Rugs Yourself
While reputable retailers will provide accurate size details for their rugs, you may also want to measure rugs yourself at times.
For example, to double check the listed dimensions before purchase, or to measure a rug you already own to see if it will fit a new space.
Luckily, measuring any regular rectangle rug is simple:
What You Need
- Tape measure
- Flat, clean floor space
Steps
- Lay rug flat on the ground (preferably tile or wood for accuracy, not thick carpet)
- Place end of tape measure flush against edge of rug
- Stretch tape straight across to opposite edge and read width
- Rotate rug 90 degrees
- Repeat steps 2-3 from longest edges to capture length
And remember, only measure the rug itself – exclude any fringe or borders if present.
For oval, round, and uniquely shaped rugs, again just measure the maximum width and length points. Easy!
Pro Tip: For extremely large or heavy antique rugs that are difficult to lay out solo, call in an assistant or rug professional to help obtain measurements.
Common Rug Dimension Questions
Let’s round up this guide by rapid-fire addressing some other frequent rug size FAQs:
Q – How do rug sizes compare to room dimensions?
A – General guidance is area rugs should be sized to rug size guide leave 12-24 inches of visible floor space bordering all sides. But ultimately about aligning rug size to furniture layout vs filling entire room wall-wall.
Q – Does pile height count in rug thickness?
A – Nope! Pile refers to density and height of rug fibers/materials. Size dimensions only account for the rug’s backing width x length.
Q – If rug size isn’t exact room dimensions, go bigger or smaller?
A – Bigger! Too-small rugs create awkward disjointed look and tripping hazard. Maximize coverage and use rug pads to avoid slipping.
Q – What’s better – custom rug size or standard dimensions?
A – Custom all the way if budget allows! Standard rug sizes can’t guarantee perfect room fit. Get precise measurements for tailored solution.
And there you have it – a conclusive guide to demystifying area rug dimensions.
Let me know in the comments if you still have any other sizing questions! I’m happy to help make your next rug purchase smooth sailing.