Choosing the Right Rug Size to Fit Under a King Bed
Finding the perfect area rug to complement your king-sized bed can seem like a daunting task. With so many sizes, materials, colors and patterns to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But have no fear - this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the right rug size for your king bed.
Standard King Bed Dimensions
Let's start with the basics - the size of a standard king mattress. King beds are the largest mainstream mattress size available, measuring 76 inches wide by 80 inches long. That gives you plenty of sleeping space for two people while still fitting into most bedrooms.
Of course, the exact floor space taken up by a king bed depends on the frame. Simple platform beds with no footboard allow rugs to extend farther under the bed. Bulky frames, headboards and footboards take up more floor real estate. Measure the amount of bare floor from the edge of the mattress to any bed legs or frame pieces to calculate the ideal rug dimensions.
Recommended Rug Size for a Standard King Bed
For most king platform beds without bulky frames, a good default rug size is 9 feet x 12 feet. This allows at least 18 inches of rug extending beyond the foot of the mattress while keeping sides open for nightstands.
Oversized King Beds
While a standard king is ample for many households, oversized and "California" king mattresses are also popular options. California kings measure 72 inches wide by a long 84 inches, so they are narrower but longer than standard kings.
The extra length of a California king can make finding the right rug tricky. A 9 foot x 12 foot rug leaves less than 12 inches beyond the foot of the bed. For California kings, consider sizing up to a 10 foot x 13 foot rug. This provides ample coverage without needing to scale up more than necessary.
Rug Placement Under King Bed
Now that we've covered the mattress itself, where exactly should your king size rug go? Here are a few of the most common placement options:
- Under just the bed - The rug is centered under the bed, with equal floor space exposed on all sides.
- Under the bed and nightstands - The rug extends beyond the bed to underneath the nightstands on either side.
- Under the entire bedroom set - The rug spans the full length and width of the bed, nightstands and other furniture like a dresser, spanning wall to wall.
The under bed only placement offers a neat, tailored look by framing the bed. But it does require exposed floor space around the perimeter. The rug under bed and nightstands option brings the whole setup together while still leaving some hardwood or accent tile visible.
For small bedrooms, placing the rug under the entire setup can make the space feel more pulled together. Just make sure to account for any floor clearance needed to open drawers and doors!
Other Rug Size Considerations
Here are a few other important factors to keep in mind as you zero in on the perfect area rug size:
- Leave at least 8 inches of floor space between the rug perimeter and any adjacent walls or furniture.
- Account for bed skirts and bedding overhang by extending the rug 18-24 inches past the foot of the mattress.
- Make sure the rug is proportional to the room size. A rug too small can look out of place.
- Factor in nightstand depth and drawers to avoid them sitting atop the rug.
Take into account your unique bedroom layout, furniture sizes, walking paths and style preferences as you determine dimensions.
Recommended Rug Sizes for King Beds
As a quick recap, here are some ideal rug sizes for king beds:
- 8 feet x 10 feet - For undersized look or smaller rooms
- 9 feet x 12 feet - Fits most standard king beds
- 10 feet x 13 feet - Accommodates oversized California kings
Square rug sizes like 8 feet x 8 feet or 9 feet x 9 feet can also work well. Just be sure to position them symmetrically under the bed.
Shopping Tips for King Bed Rugs
Once you've decided on the perfect dimensions, keep these rug shopping tips in mind:
- Measure your bedroom and existing furniture before heading to the store.
- Size up slightly if unsure. Too big is better than too small.
- Low pile rugs fit under beds more easily.
- Review return policies in case the rug doesn't fit right.
Measure twice and cut once as the saying goes! Jot down the measurements of your bed, nightstands, doorway clearance and any other tight spots.
Styling Your Rug Under a King Bed
A few quick styling tricks can take your rug from bland to beautiful:
- Make sure the rug is centered evenly under the bed.
- Try layering a smaller rug atop a larger one.
- Rotate the rug pattern or direction depending on size.
- Pull together colors from rug into other decor.
Take a step back once the rug is in place and make sure the size and positioning align with the rest of the layout. Make small adjustments until the proportions feel right.
FAQs About Rug Sizes for King Beds
Should flat woven or plush rugs be used?
Flat woven rugs are best for durability and sliding under beds. But plush rugs can also work if they are low pile. Test by sliding under the bed.
What if bed posts or wheels sit on the rug?
Make sure wheels are well-attached and use rug pads or grippers to keep the posts and wheels from shifting on the rug.
What if the rug makes doors hard to open?
Consider sizing down or reposition to ensure doors, drawers and closets can open fully with rug in place.
Finding that "just right" area rug size for your king bed can really pull your whole bedroom together. Start by measuring your exact bed and furniture dimensions. Standard kings usually call for 9 foot x 12 foot rugs, while oversized California kings may need 10 foot x 13 foot rugs. Position the rug under the bed only, under bed and nightstands or under the entire set based on your room size and style. And don't forget small but impactful styling tricks like centering, layering and thoughtful color and pattern coordination. With this advice in mind, you're sure to find a rug that suits your space perfectly.