How to Choose the Right Area Rug for Under Your Bed

Choosing the Perfect Area Rug for Under Your Bed

An area rug is more than just a floor covering; it's a way to inject color, texture, and pattern into your space while offering a soft, welcoming touch under your feet every morning. But getting the right size for your area rug is crucial to maintain a proportional and balanced look in your room.

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Determining What Goes on the Area Rug

Placing an area rug under your bed requires careful consideration of furniture placement. While there are extensive guides on bedroom rug placement, here are four options:

• Entire bed frame on the rug.
• Bed frame, nightstands, and a bench at the foot of the bed on the rug.
• Lower two-thirds of the bed, plus a bench, on the rug, leaving the head of the bed on the floor.
• Lower third of the bed and a bench on the rug, leaving most of the bed on the floor - ideal for smaller rugs over carpeting.

Sizing for Small and Large Bedrooms

In a small bedroom, opt for a rug that almost fills the entire space to visually enlarge the room. For twin or full-size beds:

• 4x6 or 5x8 rugs for the bottom two-thirds of the bed.
• 6x9 rugs to accommodate the bed, nightstand, and a bench.
• 9x12 for two twin beds with nightstands and benches.

Photo by Simona Olcese

Sizing for Larger Rooms with Queen or King-size Beds:

• 8x10 or 9x12 rugs for the bottom two-thirds of the bed.
• 12x15 rugs for a balanced look under a California king bed.
• Runner rugs on each side or at the foot of the bed.

Photo by The Spruce

Area Rugs Under Dresser

When placing an area rug underneath a dresser or other substantial furniture in your bedroom, it's important to ensure that the rug's placement doesn't disrupt the furniture's visual space. 

Choose a rug that accommodates the entire length and width of the dresser, allowing it to fully slide beneath. Alternatively, opt for a rug size that maintains a small gap of about 2 to 3 inches between the rug's edge and the furniture, preventing any overlapping or crowding.

Photo by Michelle Pulman

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Spacing Tips

Always leave at least 18 to 24 inches of space around the sides and foot of the bed. Ensure the rug doesn't touch the dresser's legs, but either fully goes under it or leaves 2-3 inches visible.

Photo by Kelly Bontrager

Style and Material

Area rugs come in various styles and materials, from plush and high-pile to soft cottons, sumptuous polyesters, and even wool for a more traditional look. Choose a color and pattern that either creates a soothing atmosphere or adds a pop of drama to your bedroom.

Photo by Chrissy Marie

Kid and Pet-Friendly Rug Choices Under Bed

Maintaining a family-friendly home, even with kids and pets, is possible. When selecting rugs for kids' rooms, prioritize quality and durability. Choose rugs that withstand wear and are easy to clean because, let’s face it, kids can be tough on things.

For pet-friendly rugs, opt for tight woven or low pile rugs to prevent snagging their nails in the loops. These rugs offer patterns and textures without causing discomfort to your furry friends.

Photo by Liz Marie

Photo by Pamela Dyer

Maintenance and Rug Pads

Prevent tripping hazards by securing rug edges with double-sided carpet tape or a nonslip rug mat. Consider a rug pad for added cushioning, noise reduction, and insulation.

Rotate the rug periodically to prevent indentations caused by the weight of the bed. Remove these indentations with an ice cube treatment by allowing a small ice cube to melt on the affected area, then fluffing up the fibers.

By choosing the right size, style, and maintenance routine, your area rug can become an integral part of your bedroom's design and comfort.

Photo by Emily Henderson

Photo by Lauren Hansen

Summary

All in all, picking the right rug size for beneath your bed involves various factors - room size, furniture quantity, and bed size. Remember this starting guide for Queen and King size beds:

For a Queen bed: Consider sizes like 8x10, 6x9, 5x8, or 3x5. 

For a King bed: Opt for sizes like 9x12, 8x10, 6x9, or 3x5.

Interested in reading more in-depth tips? Read our comprehensive guides about rug sizes for Queen beds or King beds.