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Bedroom Area Rug Options {Reader Question}

Learn these guidelines and tips for selecting the right size and style of bedroom area rug, whether you have a queen or king bed.

A couple weeks ago, I opened up the Satori Facebook page for another round of reader questions. I’m always curious to see what decorating dilemmas are on your mind. As in the past, I won’t be able to answer all of the questions today, but will try my best to get to as many of them as possible in upcoming blog posts.

Today I’m focusing on bedroom area rug selection and placement.

Reader Question Blog Series on Satori Design for Living

Bedroom Area Rug: Small or Large?

“Hi Shauna, I have a question about master bedroom area rugs. What’s the best way to go? Smaller rugs at the sides of the bed or one large rug (where most of it ends up collecting dust under the bed)?” Thanks, Tia

Selecting the right area rug for your bedroom can broken down into 4 simple steps. Keep in mind these are general guidelines and there are always exceptions to every rule.

1) Determine the Size of Area Rug

Before you start shopping around for area rugs, it’s important to consider the size of your bedroom, size of your bed, and where you want to place the rug.

For a Queen Bed, a standard 8 x 10 rug works well. There are two placement options I prefer for a cohesive look.

Option One

Guidelines for Area Rug Placement and Size for Queen Bed

Option Two

Area Rug Size and Placement for Queen Bed

For a King Bed, a standard 9 x 12 area rug is ideal.

Option One

Area Rug Placement and Size for King Bed

Option Two

Area Rug Placement and Size for King Bed

The first option is better for smaller bedrooms. Option two allows for a bench or two stools to be placed at the end of the bed. It’s what I suggest most of the time.

For a smaller bedroom, select a rug that gives you at least 12-16″ of exposed hardwood between the area rug and wall. It may be necessary to turn the rug lengthwise in certain situations. Make sure there is still ample rug on either side of the bed. An 8×10″ rug will still work well for a king bed if your bedroom is on the smaller side.

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2) Select the Colour and Style of Area Rug

Take a look at what you currently have in your bedroom.

Are there a lot of solid colours or neutrals? If so, a patterned rug or one with more colour will add the right amount of interest.

Angela Rose Aubrey Ocean Spice Area Rug by Loloi Rugs

Angela Rose Aubrey Rug by Loloi Rugs

If your bedroom already has a lot of colour and/or busy patterns, a solid colour area rug or a simple pattern, such as a stripe, will likely be a better fit. A tone-on-tone rug with a bit of texture may be a good option too.

If you’re redecorating your entire bedroom or starting from scratch, let a new area rug be the inspiration.

As well, think about your style preferences. Are you drawn to traditional rugs? Prefer modern rugs? Or, do you fall somewhere in between and like transitional rugs?

Blue and Ivory Alamere Area Rug by Serena and Lily

Alamere Blue Rug by Serena & Lily

3) Select the Material and Weave

Area rugs are made with a variety of materials using various construction techniques. Each of these result in a different look and feel.

If you’re looking for an element of luxury when you step out of your bed, then choose a rug with a higher pile. If you’re simply adding another layer of texture, think about basic sisal.

4) Set your Budget

Think about your lifestyle, such as whether or not you have pets or children who spend time in your bedroom. I once had a client who came home to nail polish spilled on her expensive new rug. Not a good scenario, but luckily most of it came out.

I suggest spending less on trendy rugs and more on classic styles. Quite often you get what you pay for in terms of shedding and wear, but shop around just to be sure.

Shop Bedroom Area Rugs

Thanks for reaching out, Tia. To answer your question, I guess it’s dust for you! Be sure to keep us updated on your bedroom!

If you have a decor, design or organizing question you could really use help with, follow the Satori Facebook Page to find out when the next open call for questions is.

For more decorating and organizing advice, check out the entire Reader Question Series.

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Thanks for stopping by,

Shauna at Satori Design for Living Blog - Home Decor, DIY, Vintage Finds, Recipes

18 Comments

  1. Thanks, Shauna!!! This is so helpful. The master bedroom has been top of mind lately, so I’ll start incorporating a n 8’x10′ into my daydreaming! :) THANK YOU!

  2. I went through this dilemma about a year ago, and struggled between a traditional rug and a modern rug. I ended up going with the modern one, and still love it today – the only thing that would have been ideal is if I could have gotten it in one size larger. This one breaks the size rule, but I think because of the large pattern we’re just able to pull it off! Great post and tips, Shauna.

  3. Thanks Shauna! I am currently doing queen option #1 but would like to try moving the rug away from the wall like in option #2 – I just have to wait until hubby gets up and then I’m going to do it! Great question by the way and I loved all 3 rug choices you have here too – want!!

  4. Thanks for this great tutorial, Shauna! When I get around to redecorating my bedroom, an area rug is on the list. But I was never sure of size. Now I know that I’ll need a 9 x 12 for my king sized bed!

  5. Shauna,
    Fabulous tips for the bedroom. I hate when clients have rugs that look like tiny islands in the middle of their room. Loving your readers forum for questions….great idea!!
    Have a great long weekend!
    Christine xoxo

  6. Love the bedroom pics you posted – very inspirational. My bedroom rug is not the right size at all, but I picked it up on one of my holidays and it has great memories so it’s staying :)

  7. Great tips Shauna – and I absolutely love your inspiration pics! I sure wish we had room for a bench at the end of a bed- such a great look!! I know our rug in our bedroom is too small but it is the one I have…for now. lol!

  8. Love the diagrams you included and the examples of different styles. I love to see some of the hardwood on the edges of the room to really define the bed area. 

  9. Great info, Shauna!  I agree the diagrams are great, I find it easier to understand.  Fortunately, or unfortunately I have carpet in all the bedrooms.  But thank you for the resource.  It will come in handy in case we ever get to the renos we are dreaming about!  Fingers crossed.

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