Rugs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different needs. For small spaces like entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens, smaller sized rugs are ideal. Understanding the dimensions of the smallest rug sizes can help you find the perfect fit for your room.
What are the standard rug sizes?
Rugs generally come in standard sizes that correspond to the size of the room they will go in. Larger rugs are meant for bigger rooms like living rooms and bedrooms, while smaller rugs are tailored for smaller spaces. Here are the most common standard rug sizes:
| Rug Size | Dimensions (feet) |
| 3′ x 5′ | 3 x 5 |
| 4′ x 6′ | 4 x 6 |
| 5′ x 8′ | 5 x 8 |
| 6′ x 9′ | 6 x 9 |
| 8′ x 10′ | 8 x 10 |
| 9′ x 12′ | 9 x 12 |
| 10′ x 14′ | 10 x 14 |
| 12′ x 15′ | 12 x 15 |
As you can see, the smaller end includes 3′ x 5′, 4′ x 6′, and 5′ x 8′ rugs. These are best suited for smaller rooms and tight spaces.
What are the dimensions of the smallest rug sizes?
While 3′ x 5′, 4′ x 6′, and 5′ x 8′ are considered the smallest standard size rugs, some rugs come in even more compact dimensions. Here are some examples of the very smallest rug sizes:
– 2′ x 3′ – The smallest rectangular rug size available. It provides just 6 square feet of coverage.
– 24″ x 36″ – These tiny 2′ x 3′ rugs are perfect for very small spaces likeentryways, bathroom floors, and next to sinks.
– 24″ x 24″ – A 2′ x 2′ square rug that can be used in a small entry, in front of a kitchen or bathroom sink, or even as a doormat.
– 18″ x 24″ – At just 1.5′ x 2′, these are extra small rugs good for very tight spaces and apartments.
– 16″ x 24″ – A long, skinny rug that’s only 16 inches wide but stretches 2 feet long. Nice for tight hallways or bathrooms.
– 20″ diameter – Round rugs with a 20 inch diameter (about 2.5 feet across). Great for adding a splash of color in front of sinks or toilets.
– 16″ diameter – The smallest round rugs, these fit into any tiny space. They can accent a vanity or hallway.
So in summary, the very smallest rug dimensions range from 16 to 24 inches for round rugs, and 16 to 24 inches in width/length for rectangular rugs. These miniature rug sizes maximize style in minimal space.
Where are small rugs used?
The main advantage of small rug sizes is that they are versatile enough to work in any room, even with limited floor space. Here are some of the most popular uses for tiny rugs:
Entryways
Small rugs are perfect for placement inside and outside of front doors in an entryway. A 2′ x 3′ rug can fit nicely inside the door, while a 24″ x 24″ works well right outside. The rug scrapes shoes clean right as you enter while adding a decorative touch.
Bathrooms
A 24″ or 20″ round accent rug brings color into a bathroom without taking up valuable floor space. Use next to the toilet, tub, or sink as a soft place to step out onto.
Kitchens
Protect your floors from spills and chair scratches by placing a 2′ x 3′ rug under the kitchen table. A skinny 16″ x 24″ rug also fits nicely along the sink.
Dorms
College dorm rooms have very limited floor space, so a tiny rug is ideal. An 18″ x 24″ rug can go next to a twin bed or desk.
Apartments
Studio and one bedroom apartments also benefit from the smallest rug sizes. Try a 2′ x 2′ rug in the entry or near the bed in a studio.
Nurseries
Add a pop of color and cushioned floor space with a 24″ diameter circle rug inside a baby’s crib or play area.
Offices
Define a workspace with an area rug sized 18″ x 24″ or 20″ diameter.
RV’s
RV’s and campers need rugs made for tight quarters, usually 24″ x 36″ or smaller.
So in small homes, rooms, and vehicles, tiny rugs make all the difference!
What materials are best for small rugs?
Tiny rugs need to be durable to withstand daily wear and tear. These materials are best suited for small space rugs:
Polypropylene – Affordable, stain resistant, and easy to clean. Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber perfect for rugs prone to spills.
Nylon – Another budget-friendly synthetic with good longevity. Nylon area rugs are colorfast and easy to maintain.
Jute – Natural fiber jute rugs are moisture-resistant, so good for bathrooms. Jute has an earthy, casual style.
Cotton – Soft cotton rugs are machine washable but not as durable as synthetics. Best for low-traffic zones.
Wool – Naturally stain resistant wool is ideal for kitchen and entryway rugs. It’s luxuriously soft but expensive.
Polyester – Polyester rugs are fade-resistant, colorful, and cheap. Great choice for dorm rooms.
Seagrass – Seagrass is a durable natural fiber rug material, though more prone to shedding. Provides a beachy look.
Sisal – Natural sisal fiber is scratchy and durable. Sisal rugs work for rustic or modern decor.
For high-traffic small rugs, polypropylene and nylon give you the most bang for your buck. Wool and cotton offer luxurious softness underfoot but require more care. Jute, seagrass, and sisal suit more casual spaces.
Where can I shop for small rugs?
You can find tiny rugs sized 2′ x 3′ or smaller at most major home goods retailers, either in store or online. Here are some top places to buy petite area rugs:
IKEA – IKEA has a nice selection of small and mini-sized rugs from 16″ diameter up to 5′ x 8′. Many fun patterns available, most made from durable synthetic fibers. Very budget-friendly prices, starting around $25.
Target – Shop Target’s threshold brand for modern, boho, and classic small rugs from recognizable designers like Opalhouse. Prices range from $15 up to $500.
World Market – World Market specializes in rugs 24″ x 24″ up to 5′ x 8′. Choose from contemporary, traditional, and floral designs. Rugs available from $60-$400.
Ruggable – Ruggable’s machine-washable rugs come in rug runners as small as 2.5′ x 7.5′. Wide range of prints, from $109-$259.
Wayfair – Wayfair has over 50,000 area rugs in every size imaginable. Filter for 2′ x 3′ and smaller sizes. Prices from $20 to over $1,000.
Overstock – Find major discounts on brand name area rugs at Overstock.com. Search their rug shop for thousands of petite sizes under $100.
Home Depot – Home Depot sells small cotton, nylon, polyester, and seagrass rugs starting at 2′ x 3′ dimensions. Brands include StyleWell and Unique Loom.
Lowe’s – Shop indoor and outdoor doormats, bathroom rugs, and area rugs in petite dimensions at Lowe’s. Prices from $15-$200.
Amazon – As the largest online retailer, Amazon stocks virtually any size rug imaginable. Search 24″ or 2′ dimensions under $50.
The best deals on small rugs can be found at big box stores like IKEA and discount sites like Amazon and Overstock. But specialty retailers like World Market and Ruggable also carry cute petite rug designs to discover.
Tips for decorating with small rugs
Decorating with a tiny rug comes with some unique design considerations. Use these tips to maximize visual impact:
– Anchor the rug – Place it centrally under a focal point like the kitchen table or bathroom vanity.
– Layer rugs – Put a larger area rug underneath for cushioning and sound absorption.
– Contrast colors – Choose a rug color that contrasts strongly with the flooring to stand out.
– Repeat accents – Pick up one color from wall decor or textiles for cohesion.
– Leave breathing room – Don’t overcrowd the rug perimeter with furniture. Leave at least 18″ clearance.
– Use furniture legs – Put table and chair legs atop the rug to make it look bigger.
– Size up bedding – For dorms and tight bedrooms, oversized bedding can make a small rug look proportional.
– Multipurpose space – Stage the rug for different functions by moving it to dining or work zones as needed.
– Limit patterns – Stick with solid colors or simple geometric prints so the rug doesn’t look busier.
– Stay simple – Avoid fringed, high pile, and overly intricate rugs which shrink down the space.
With smart styling choices, even the tiniest rug can elevate a small space!
Conclusion
When floor space is at a minimum, small rug sizes up to 3′ x 5′ are key for adding style without clutter. The very smallest rugs measure just 16″ to 24″ in diameter or width. Tiny rugs work well in entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, apartments, dorms, and offices. Durables fibers like polypropylene and nylon are best for high-traffic petite rugs. You can find a great selection of small rugs for sale at retailers like IKEA, Target, and online at Wayfair. Follow interior design principles like anchoring and contrasting to make a little rug look bigger. When floor space is tight, a perfectly sized small rug can pull a room together.
