How to Measure a Rug and Choose the Right One for Any Space?

Choosing the perfect rug can feel like finding the last piece of puzzle that completes your room. But before browsing through patterns and colors, you need to understand how to measure a rug and select the right size for your space. 

Measurement plays a pivotal role to define the exact space you can allot for the rug and how it redefines your interiors. So, once you have the perfect size, you can align all other furnishings according to the piece. It’s easier than you might think, and with a few tips, you’ll know exactly how to measure a rug.

Steps to Measure a Rug

Whether you’re replacing an old rug or buying one for a new space, measuring ensures that it fits perfectly into your room. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Grab Your Tape Measure: Start with a tape measure and make sure it’s long enough to cover the dimensions of your space.
2. Measure the Length: Begin by measuring the length of the area where you want your rug to go. For example, if it’s under a dining table, measure from one end of the table to the other, and then add some extra length on either side for the chairs.
3. Measure the Width: Next, measure the width of the area. Again, if it's for a specific piece of furniture, like a couch, measure the width of the couch and then add some extra space on each side.
4. Mark the Area: You can use a painter’s tape to mark the area on the floor where you want the rug to go. This gives you a clearer idea of how the rug will fit into the space.
5. Note the Dimensions: Once you have the measurements, write them down. These will be your guide when you’re shopping for the rug.

Measure the Space to Choose the Right Rug Size

Now that you know how to measure a rug, let’s talk about measuring the space itself to make sure you’re choosing the right rug size. If your space is compact or spacious, the choice you make will vastly vary.

Cornered/Edged Space

If your rug is going into an edged space, like a bedroom or a diwan placed in one corner, you’ll want to measure a bit differently:

• Measure the Full Area: Start by measuring the entire area where you want the rug to go. This includes the length and width of the space from edge to edge.
• Allow for Furniture: If your rug will go under a bed or chair, consider how much of the rug you want to flaunt around the edges. A general rule is to have at least 18-24 inches of rug visible around the furniture.
• Balance with Walls: Make sure to leave some breathing room between the edge of the rug and the walls. Ideally, you should have 6-12 inches of space between the rug’s edge and the walls. This ensures that the room doesn’t look cramped.

Open Space

For an open space like a living room or a large dining area, your measuring technique should focus on defining the area:

• Define the Space: Measure the seating area or dining area first. For example, in a living room, measure the space that will be covered by the rug, which often includes the area around your sofa, coffee table, and chairs.
• Centralize the Rug: Center the rug in the space, ensuring that the main furniture pieces (like the sofa or table) are either fully on the rug or partially on it, depending on the look you’re going for.
• Maintain Proportion: In larger spaces, it’s important to choose a rug that’s proportionate to the area. A small rug in a large room can feel out of place, so choose a rug that covers the space well without overwhelming it.

Tips to Keep in Mind while Choosing a Rug for a Space

When it comes to choosing the right rug, a few additional tips can make all the difference:

• Leave Some Space Around the Rug: It’s generally a good idea to leave a bit of space between the edge of your rug and the walls. This could be anywhere from 6 inches in a smaller room to 12 inches in a larger room. This creates a visual frame around the rug and helps the space feel open and airy.
• Consider Furniture Placement: Think about how much of the rug you want to expose around your furniture. For a more complete look, the front legs of your furniture should sit on the rug, leaving enough space to frame the area nicely. If the furniture is entirely on the rug, it can create a more grounded, and anchored feel.
• Choose the Right Rug Pad: Don’t forget to consider how to measure for a rug pad. The pad should be slightly smaller than your rug to prevent it from showing but large enough to keep the rug in place. This will add comfort and extend the life of your rug.

• Think About Traffic Flow: In high-traffic areas, make sure the rug is large enough that people can walk on it without tripping over the edges. For hallways or entryways, a runner rug that fits the width of the space with a slight margin on each side works best.
• Test Different Sizes: If you’re unsure, you can always test different sizes using painter’s tape to outline the area. This helps you visualize the size of the rug before making a purchase.

Related: Rug Size Calculator