The Ultimate Rug Size Guide for Your Bedroom

When it comes to decorating your bedroom, choosing the right rug size is key. A good rug not only pulls the room together but also adds that extra bit of warmth and comfort underfoot. Whether you have a queen or king bed, getting the rug size right can transform your space in the best way.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to pick the perfect rug size for different bedroom layouts and make sure it fits your style. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Got a queen-sized bed? Lucky you! A queen is super versatile, so there are a few rug sizes that could work depending on your layout.

8x10 feet: This is a very popular option for queen beds. It extends beyond the sides and foot of the bed, giving you a cozy landing space when you hop out of bed. Plus, it leaves enough room for your nightstands to sit on the rug—bonus!

Photo Credit: Livingwithchic

6x9 feet: If your room is on the smaller side, a 6x9 rug works great. It won’t go all the way under your nightstands, but it still gives you that nice soft landing when you wake up. In fact, if you’re working with a compact layout, this might be just the perfect fit.

Photo Credit: My Domaine

If you have a king-sized bed, you’ll need a larger rug to balance out the bed's size.

9x12 feet: This rug size is ideal for a king bed. It provides ample space around the bed for that luxurious feel. Plus, it leaves room for walking around and it usually covers the space under the bed and nightstands. Perfect for a spacious, cozy vibe!

Photo Credit: Ali Hossienpour

8x10 feet: You can also go for an 8x10 rug. It won’t extend as far beyond the bed, but it’s still a great option if your room isn’t as big. This size still offers a soft, inviting space around your bed—so you’re not missing out on that comfy feel.

Photo Credit: Erin Vogelpohl

Standard Layout (Bed in the Center)

For a classic bedroom look, where the bed is centered against a wall, an 8x10 rug for a queen bed or 9x12 rug for a king bed is the way to go. The rug will frame your bed beautifully while giving you soft spots on both sides to step onto when you get up.  

Floating Layout (Bed Not Against the Wall)

If you’ve got a more open or floating layout where the bed isn't pushed up against a wall, you’ll want the rug to sit completely under the bed with at least 18-24 inches of rug around the sides. A 9x12 rug for a king bed or 8x10 rug for a queen bed will look stunning.

Bed Against a Wall (Side Layout)

For rooms where the bed is pushed against a side wall, a 6x9 rug (or smaller) works well. You can place the rug under two-thirds of the bed, leaving space for the rest of the room to breathe. This works especially well for smaller rooms!

Runners for a Little Extra Coziness

If you’ve got a smaller room or just want a little touch of softness, rug runners are a fabulous option! These long, narrow rugs can be placed along the sides of your bed, offering warmth and texture without overpowering the space.

For instance, a 2x8 runner  on either side of the bed adds just enough comfort for your feet without needing a massive rug. You can also add a runner at the foot running parallel to your bed to add extra styling.

Photo credit: Elle Décor

When picking the color or style of your rug, you’ll want to think about how it complements the rest of your bedroom. Do you love a minimalist look? Neutral-toned rugs work well. Or maybe you’re into bold, vibrant patterns? In that case, don’t be afraid to let your rug be the star of the show. Just like your bed, it deserves the spotlight!

Most bedroom rugs are rectangular, but that’s not the only option! Depending on your room’s shape and style, you can have some fun with other rug shapes, too:

Round rugs: These are great for smaller rooms or if you want to soften the look of sharp corners. For instance, placing a large round rug halfway under the bed can create a unique, soft look—especially in a minimalist or boho-style bedroom.

Square rugs: If you have a large, square-shaped room, a square rug can anchor your space beautifully, giving it a balanced feel. Just make sure the rug is big enough to extend beyond the bed on all sides.

Layering rugs: Layering a smaller patterned rug over a larger neutral one can add dimension and texture to your room. It’s also a great way to show off your style and  add coziness.

Besides the bed, you’ve probably got other furniture in the room—dressers, nightstands, benches, maybe even a chair or two. You’ll want to make sure your rug size takes those pieces into account.

Leave space around the furniture: Ideally, you don’t want the rug to butt right up against your dresser or other big pieces. Leave about 12-18 inches of space between the rug and other furniture to keep the room feeling open and not too crowded.

For smaller bedrooms: If space is tight, consider how much of the floor you want to cover. A smaller rug (like a 5x8 or 6x9) placed at the foot of the bed may be enough to add comfort without overwhelming the room.

Where to Place the Rug if You Have a Bed with a Bench or Footboard

If your bed has a bench or footboard at the end, you’ll want to account for that when positioning your rug. The rug should still extend beyond the bench or footboard by at least 6-12 inches to keep everything looking balanced and intentional.

Rugs with Radiant Floor Heating

If your bedroom has radiant floor heating, you’ll need to pick a rug that works well with it. For example, natural fibers like wool are excellent because they allow heat to pass through, while synthetic rugs might block some of that warmth. Always check if the rug you’re buying is “floor heating safe.”

Rug Placement Hack for Super Small Spaces

If your bedroom is extra cozy (aka small), here’s a great hack: Don’t cover the whole floor! You can place a smaller rug (like 5x7 or 6x9) at an angle under the foot of the bed or even just under a corner. This creates visual interest without making the room feel cramped.

Final Tips

Don’t forget the rug pad! It’ll keep your rug from slipping and protect your floors.

If you have a smaller room, don’t stress! You can still get a great rug that fits perfectly. A 5x8 rug for a queen bed or 7x10 for a king might be just right.

Want a rug under only the foot of the bed? Go for a 6x9 or 5x7 and place it just beneath the bottom half of your bed.

So there you have it—a simple, friendly guide to finding the perfect rug size for your bedroom! With these tips in mind, you’ll be stepping onto something soft, cozy, and perfectly sized in no time. Happy decorating!