How to Measure a Round Rug: Sizing Guide & Chart

The right size round rug can be an incredible game changer for the feel, aesthetic, and flow of your space. A too-small round area rug may feel lost, while a too-large one can be overpowering in your space. Measuring is the only guaranteed way to ensure your rug anchors the room, creates delineation, and coordinates with your furniture layout.

The Basics: How to Measure a Round Rug

Measuring round rugs is simple, but it’s crucial to get it right. Here’s how:

Find the Center: Hold your tape measure so that it is at the center point of the rug or where you’d like the rug to be in the room.
Measure Across: Pull the tape to the edge on the other side. This is the diameter, the most important ”measurement” of all round area rugs.
Double-Check: The tape should be taut but run through the exact center for this to be accurate.
Radius Option: Measure from the center out to the edge (the radius) and multiply by two to get the diameter.

Side Note: Round rugs are measured by their diameter—the distance across the widest portion of the rug.

Round Rug Sizes Chart: Standard Dimensions

Understanding standard sizes of round rugs helps you select the perfect fit for different rooms. Here’s a quick reference chart:

Rug Size (Feet)	Rug Size (Inches)	Best For
3'	36"	Entryways, small nooks
4'	48"	Beside beds, small seating areas
5'	60"	Under coffee tables, reading nooks
6'	72"	Medium dining tables, bedrooms
8'	96"	Large living rooms, dining rooms
10'	120"	Open spaces, large rooms

Always round up to the nearest inch or foot for the best fit.

Step-by-Step: How to Measure a Round Area Rug for Any Space

1. Living Room

Measure the seating area you want to anchor.
Ensure the round rug extends beyond the coffee table and at least partially under surrounding furniture for a cohesive look.

Person measuring the diameter of a round area rug placed under a coffee table in a modern living room setup

2. Dining Room

You have to measure your table’s diameter first.
Add at least 30 inches to the diameter so chairs stay on the rug even when pulled out.

Round area rug centered under a dining table with four chairs in a well-lit dining room, being measured with a tape

3. Bedroom

Decide if the rug will go under the bed or beside it.
For under-bed placement, allow at least 18–24 inches of rug to show on each side.

Round area rug partially placed under the foot of a bed in a cozy bedroom, being measured with a tape measure

4. Entryway or Nook

Measure the available space, ensuring the rug won’t block doors or walkways.

Small round rug in an entryway nook with a bench and shoes, being measured with a tape measure for proper sizing

5. Open Floor Plans

Use multiple round area rugs to define different zones.
Measure each area individually for a balanced look.

Pro Tips for Measuring and Placing Round Rugs

Before you purchase, use painter’s tape to outline the proposed area of the rug on the floor.
Consider rug thickness near a door or under a piece of furniture.
For extra comfort and to keep it from slipping around, consider a rug pad.
To create visual balance, leave some floor space around the rug’s edge to remain visible.

Round Rug Sizing Rules for Different Rooms

In dining rooms, always ensure the rug is large enough for chairs to remain on it, even when pulled out.
In living rooms, the rug should anchor the seating area, not just float in the middle.
In bedrooms, let the rug extend beyond the bed’s sides for a plush, inviting look.

Why Measuring Matters: Design & Practicality

Accurate measurement saves you both time and money. Here is how:

It prevents costly mistakes and returns.
Ensures your rug fits through doorways and under furniture.
Helps you visualize the final look, especially with AR tools that let you preview rug placement in real time.

Want to add the perfect round rug to your space?

Ready to find the perfect round rug for your space? Explore Rugknots’ extensive collection of round area rugs in every size, color, and style. Shop now, your dream rug is just a click away!

FAQs

How do I measure my rug size?

To measure the diameter, run a tape measure across the center of the rug from one edge to the other edge. For the area, use the equation π × r 2, with r being half of the diameter.

What are the rules for round rugs?

Opt for a rug size that enables furniture (such as dining chairs) to remain fully on the rug. In living spaces, the rug should ground the area around the seating. Always keep some floor space around the rug visible for balance.

How many inches is a 6 foot round rug?

A 6-foot round rug is 72 inches across.Ideally, the rug will be at least 30 inches larger than the table in every direction so that the chairs stay on the rug as they are pulled out.