What Size Rug Under Dining Table? Here's The Best Way To Find The Right Size

Are you trying to liven up your dining area but unsure what size rug is best for under the table? Your online searches for terms like ‘how big should a living room rug be?’ and ‘how to choose the right rug?’ show that you’re interested in discovering the optimal rug size for your dining area. 

With our helpful guide on sizing rugs for a dining space, and choosing how to place them underneath tables, you'll be sure to find the perfect fit fast. Let us help you bring life back into your home with this ultimate guide on the ideal rug size for under your dining table. 

Measuring your dining room for the perfect rug size is essential to ensure you get the right fit. Before looking up the most stylish rugs Melbourne has for you, it’s important to measure the space and consider furniture placement. To ensure the best fit, measure your dining room and take furniture placement into account before selecting a rug.

Measurement tips:

Start by measuring the length and width of your dining room in feet or inches. Be sure to take into account any existing furniture that will be in contact with the rug, such as chairs or tables. Take into account a 30- to 45-cm gap between furniture and the carpet's edge for maximum cosiness when seated.

Common rug sizes:

There are several common sizes available for rugs used under a dining table – including 160x230 cm, 200x300 cm or 240x340 cm  – and the ideal size for you depends on how large or small your dining room is. 

When selecting a size for your new rug under a dining table, think about how much seating space you need around it. It’s ideal to leave 60 to 90 cm from each side of the table so guests can comfortably sit without feeling cramped up against one another. 

It is also important to make sure that all four legs of your table remain on top of the rug; this helps create balance within your space while also protecting floors from scratches caused by chair movement. Finally, if possible, try adding an area rug beneath just part of the table which can add visual interest while still allowing enough walking space around it too.


💡KEY TAKEAWAY: Measuring your dining room for the ideal rug size is key to getting a good fit, so be sure to take into account existing furniture when doing this. 

How to choose a rug for your dining room

When selecting a rug for your dining room, there are various elements to take into account. From table shape and size to the style of the room and the colour or pattern of the rug, here are some tips on how to make sure you choose a rug that brings your vision to life.

Start by considering your table shape and size. Depending on whether you have a round, square or rectangular table will determine what type of rug works best in terms of scale and proportion. If you’re looking for something more traditional, an oval-shaped rug may be a great option as it can fit perfectly under most tables without taking up too much space.

Next, think about the style of your room when selecting a dining room rug. Is it modern? Traditional? Rustic? Knowing this will help narrow down options that match the overall look and feel you’re trying to achieve in your home décor. For example, if you’re going for an industrial chic vibe then perhaps try something with geometric patterns or neutral colours like grey or black which can really bring out those edgy vibes.

Finally, consider the colour and pattern of your rug carefully as this is often one of the main elements that set off any dining area design scheme. Knowing this tip is nearly as important as knowing to answers to common rug questions like ‘how to get stains out of rugs?’ ‘how to stop dog from peeing on rug?’ and ‘rugs on carpets moving, how to stop?’


💡KEY TAKEAWAY: By considering the table shape and size, style of the room and colour or pattern of the rug - you'll have no problem picking out something that fits like a glove.

Tips for placing a rug under a dining table

For achieving a homely feel in your dining area, nothing can surpass the incorporation of a rug. To achieve the most pleasing effect, it is essential to understand how best to position a rug beneath your dining table. Here are some tips for placing a rug under a dining table:

Leave enough space around the edges of the table:

When placing your rug underneath your dining table, make sure there is enough space around all four edges. This will ensure that chairs can easily slide in and out without catching on any part of the rug or becoming stuck on its edge. Leaving a generous gap of around 30 cm between each chair leg and the rug's perimeter is advised to make sure everyone has ample space when they take their seat.

Make sure you have enough seating space:

When choosing a size for your area rug, be sure to leave enough seating space for everyone who might join you at mealtime. Measure out an area big enough so that all chairs fit comfortably within its boundaries while still allowing them to move freely around as needed. If possible, opt for an oversized area rug with extra length and width so that there's plenty of room even when more people come over.

Consider adding an area rug to create balance:

If you have an oddly shaped or larger-than-usual dining table, consider adding another smaller accent area rug nearby to help create balance. This will add visual interest while providing additional comfort underfoot during those long dinner conversations. 


💡KEY TAKEAWAY: To create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your dining area, make sure to leave enough space around the edges of your table when placing an appropriately sized rug. For larger tables or oddly shaped spaces, consider adding another smaller accent rug for visual interest and additional comfort underfoot. 

Creative ways to use rugs in your dining room

It's easy to add visual appeal and texture to your dining room with a rug. A rug can add a lot of texture and visual appeal to your dining room, whether it's subtle or bold. Here are some tips to get you started: 

Layering rugs for added texture and interest

Layering multiple rugs together is a great way to bring depth and texture into any space. Consider layering two or three different-sized area rugs with complementary colours and patterns together for maximum impact. You can also layer a smaller accent rug over top of a larger one if you want more coverage without overwhelming the room.

Using multiple smaller rugs instead of one large one

If one large rug feels too bulky in your dining room, consider using multiple smaller ones instead. This allows you to create visual interest while still providing enough floor coverage that it doesn’t look empty or unfinished. Plus, having several small pieces makes it easier to rearrange them when needed – perfect for those who like to change things up often.

Creating a focal point with a boldly coloured or patterned rug

If you want something that really stands out in your dining room, opt for an eye-catching rug with bright colours or bold patterns. Choose something that will draw attention without being too distracting from other elements in the space – think geometric shapes, abstract designs, florals, stripes etc A statement piece like this will instantly transform any dull corner into an inviting conversation starter.


💡KEY TAKEAWAY: Adding a rug to your dining room can create an interesting, eye-catching space that adds texture and pops of colour. Try layering multiple rugs together for added depth or going bold with a statement piece like an abstract design or floral pattern. 

FAQs in relation to what size rug under the dining table

What size rug should go under a 6-person dining table?

For a 6-person dining table, it is recommended to use an 240x300 or 275x365 rug. This will provide enough coverage for the entire table and chairs without looking too small or overwhelming the space. If you are using a round dining table, then an 8-foot diameter circular rug should be sufficient. Measuring your room and furniture beforehand is a must to ensure you get the right size rug for your requirements.

What size rug goes under a 180-cm table?

A 180-cm table typically requires a rug that is at least 240x300 cm. This should provide enough space around the edges of the table to keep it from feeling confined or congested. Additionally, this size allows you to easily pull out chairs and still have some coverage on either side. To ensure your rug looks balanced in the room, make sure there are 45 to 60 cm of exposed flooring all around its perimeter.

Can you put a small rug under the dining table?

Yes, you can put a small rug under your dining table. Selecting the correct size and design for your room is essential to make a pleasant ambience in your house. Choosing a small rug can also save you the trouble of having to look up terms like ‘how big should a rug be under a couch?’ or ‘how to wash a wool rug?’ since they’re easier to maintain. 

How do you measure a rug for a dining room table?

Measuring a rug for a dining room table is simple. Determine the measurements of your table's length and width, then add two feet to each side so that when you place chairs around it they remain on the rug. Next, add two feet to each side so that when you place chairs around it they are still on the rug. Finally, use this measurement to find the right size rug for your space. 

Make sure you also factor in any additional furniture or decorative items near the dining area before making your purchase. Using these steps, you can discover the ideal rug for your dining room table without difficulty.

💡KEY TAKEAWAY: When selecting a rug size for a dining table, measure the length and width of the table and add two feet to each side to ensure chairs remain on the rug. You can use a small rug under your dining table, but it's important to choose the right size and design for your space.

Rugs to transform your space

No matter the size rug under the dining table you choose, make sure it fits your space and style. With a plethora of choices, you're sure to discover a rug that will add both elegance and cosiness to your dining area. Use this guide to make the best choice for your home. 

Every home is better with a stylish and beautiful rug, and Miss Amara strives to be your one-stop shop for quality rugs and home decor.