Unless your bed is against the wall, it should have a clear 36 inches (3 feet) on all sides for you to make your way around it. Within that border, measure the length and width of where you imagine you'll place your new rug. You can lay out masking tape or a bed sheet in its place to visualize the best placement. The best bedroom rug should extend at least 24 inches (2 feet) beyond the edge of your bed so you feel like you're scooting right into your fuzzy slippers when you throw your legs over the side. Add 12 inches (1 foot) to your rug's length if you have a trunk or bench at the end of your bed.

For small bedrooms where furniture space is limited, you just need the legs of your footboard to reach your rug, unless you opt for runners on the sides. For small bedrooms, runners on each side of the bed are a cost-effective alternative to a full under-bed rug. They're a bit more visually intriguing, and they ensure you're not paying for rug material you won't even see. For larger bedrooms where you might have room for a seating area, desk, or vanity table, use several area rugs to set apart those spaces.

Bedroom Rug Placement Options

There are three main approaches to placing a rug in your bedroom:

• Full rug under the bed: The rug extends under the entire bed and beyond on all sides. Best for larger bedrooms with standard or oversized rugs. Creates a cohesive, anchored look.
• Partial rug at the foot of the bed: Two-thirds of the rug extends from under the bed toward the foot. Ideal for medium-sized rooms or when you want to showcase more of the rug's pattern.
• Runner rugs on each side: Place matching runners along each side of the bed. Best for small bedrooms, tight budgets, or when you want to highlight beautiful flooring.

Speaking of setting apart your space, your bedroom is your sanctuary, especially if you have housemates. Choosing the right style for your bedroom rug should be about personal preference and balance. This is your bedroom, where you don't have to worry so much about foot traffic. You should be focused on luxury and comfort. So if you're thinking of splurging on that soft, fluffy sheepskin throw, this is the room where it can be justified.

If you go big in size with your bedroom rug, go neutral in color. You don't want a giant swath of fabric so glaring that you don't need an alarm clock to wake up in the morning. Take cues from your bed frame's upholstery, your nightstands or your bedding. A white bedroom rug may match many decor styles. But if most of your master bedroom is upholstered in a solid color, it's a good idea to choose a lively pattern, like you'd find in paisley and Oriental rugs.

Smaller bedroom rugs can be bolder. If the room itself is small, try a bedroom rug with stripes. Stripes elongate your room, pulling you in and compelling you to climb into those sheets. For rooms adorned with artwork and patterned print comforters, a solid low-pile wool rug is an excellent solution, but don't be afraid to mix and match patterns together.

Choose bedroom rug materials based on comfort, durability, and maintenance needs. Here's how the most popular options compare:

Along with colors and styles, area rugs for bedrooms come in a wide array of materials. The thinner and bumpier the rug, the easier it is to clean. Sisal rugs are some of the best bedroom rugs for floors that get substantial use. It's pretty much the only coarse natural fiber you'll want for a bedroom rug. Your feet will thank you.

While your feet are not likely tracking dirt all the way through to your bedroom, unless you're in a small apartment, your pet definitely is. Silk and viscose rugs look nice and add shimmer to your room's decor. However, if your pet sleeps in your room, delicate bedroom rugs won't take long to show wear. If you have pets, avoid absorbent rugs or ones with continuous loops that'll snag on claws.

Polypropylene rugs and wool area rugs are extremely durable, easy to clean, and simple to maintain. So when your drink on the nightstand spills or you're eating pizza in bed and a slice lands cheese-side down, your floor will be braced for stains. Polypropylene backing generally eliminates the need for a rug pad, so you'll be less likely to slip or trip.

To prevent fading, you want a rug material that can weather all seasons, not just the gloomy ones. However, if your room gets a lot of sun, close blinds during the day to lengthen the life of your bedroom rug. Generally, nylon, cotton, and polyester won't need to be replaced often, and won't bankrupt you when they need to be switched out.

Even when you're spending your first night in a new place amidst boxes, a rug is a shortcut to creating a homey vibe. When looking for an area rug for your bedroom, shop for that item before you purchase other coordinating accessories. A bedroom rug that coordinates with your décor can provide a huge impact that ties all the elements of style together. But if you wait to pick an under-bed rug until that last throw pillow is added to your bedscape, you may spend months locating one that matches harmoniously.The good news is the best bedroom rugs are chameleons. A shag rug can transition from retro Mid-Century Modern style to a bohemian Moroccan import when paired with the right accessories. Neutral patterns can slide between coastal and shabby chic because they keep things light and airy. When you're trying to give a bedroom character and complexity, choose your rug first.

The final thing to consider when selecting a bedroom rug is the backing material. If you place your rug under a TV console or your bed frame, you don't worry as much about it slipping, but a rug pad can add even more traction and much-needed padding. Bedside and under-bed rugs should be secure to prevent accidents, so a rug pad should always be a consideration. Opt for a rug pad that keeps your rug in place, or select a rug that's slip-resistant if you're installing it on solid-surface flooring.In addition to a rug pad's many benefits, it will also give your bedroom rug some cushion. Nobody wants to leave the comfort of their bed first thing in the morning, but the best bedroom rug will start your day off right as soon as your feet hit the floor. A rug pad is a purchase you're not likely to regret—it adds cushion, prevents slipping, and extends your rug's lifespan.

Something missing in your space? Throw down a rug instead of lots of moolah. Begin shopping for your bedroom rug right here on bedbathandbeyond.com.

What size rug goes under a queen bed? An 8' x 10' rug is recommended for a queen bed, allowing 24-36 inches of rug to extend beyond each side.

Should a bedroom rug go under the bed or beside it? Either works depending on your room size and budget. A rug under the bed creates a cohesive look, while runners beside the bed are ideal for small spaces or tighter budgets.

Do I need a rug pad under my bedroom rug? Yes, a rug pad is recommended for most bedroom rugs. It prevents slipping, adds cushion underfoot, and helps extend the life of your rug. Polypropylene rugs with built-in backing may not require one.

What is the best material for a bedroom rug? Wool and polypropylene are top choices. Wool offers durability and softness; polypropylene is affordable and easy to clean. For luxury, consider shag or sheepskin in low-traffic bedrooms.