Hallway Guide

Hallway Runner Size Guide

A well-sized runner adds warmth and protects high-traffic areas. The key is leaving 3-6 inches of floor exposed on each side for a balanced look.

Quick Answer

Standard hallway runner:

2' × 8'

For a 36" wide hallway. Leave 3-6" floor clearance on each side.

Interactive Tool

Compare Runner Sizes

Select your hallway length and runner width to see recommendations

Hallway length:

Runner width:

2ft (standard)3ft (full coverage)

✗2' × 6'

Too Short

✓2' × 8'

Optimal

✗2' × 12'

Too Long

✓

For a standard hallway with a 2ft wide runner, we recommend 2' × 8'.

The Width Rule

Runner should be 4-6 inches narrower than the hallway on each side, creating a floor frame effect. Leave equal space on both sides.

Quick Math:

Runner Width = Hallway Width - 6 to 12" (3-6" floor on each side)
Runner Length = Hallway Length - 12 to 24" (6-12" from each end)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✗Runner too narrow (should be 3-6" less than hallway width)
✗Runner too short (looks like an afterthought)
✗No non-slip pad (dangerous on hard floors)
✗Using multiple small rugs that bunch up
✗Delicate materials in high-traffic zone

What Matters Most

1.Safety First — Non-slip backing essential for runners
2.Durability — Highest-traffic area in most homes
3.Width — Leave 3-6" floor visible on each side
4.Length — Should run most of the hallway length

💡

Go longer, not shorter

A runner that's too short is worse than no runner at all. When in doubt, go longer — you can always add a console table at one end.

Quick Size Reference

Hallway Width	Runner Width	Floor Clearance
30" (2.5 ft)	22-24"	3-4" each side
36" (3 ft)	26-30"	3-5" each side
42" (3.5 ft)	30-34"	4-6" each side
48" (4 ft)	34-40"	4-7" each side

Runner Length Guide

Runner length depends on your hallway and personal preference.

Short Runners

Good for small entryways, in front of closets, or short hallway sections. Leave 6-12" from each end.

8–10'

Standard Runners

Most common length for typical hallways. Covers the main traffic area while leaving breathing room at ends.

Long Runners

For long hallways or gallery-style spaces. Consider using multiple runners with 6-12" gaps between them.

Hallway Rug Placement Tips

Center runner in hallway with equal floor on each side
Leave 3-6" of floor visible on each side
Place away from doors that swing into hallway
For long halls, two runners beat one awkward length
Start/end at transition points (doorways, room entries)

Best Materials

Choose the right material for your space based on usage and traffic.

Avoid

Delicate materials: This is highest-traffic
High-pile: Wears unevenly, trips
Natural fibers (jute): Wears quickly
Light colors: Shows wear path

Frequently Asked Questions

How wide should a hallway runner be?

Subtract 8-12 inches from your hallway width. A 36-inch hallway needs a 24-28 inch (2-2.5 foot) runner. Leave equal floor showing on both sides.

How long should a runner be?

The runner should stop 6-12 inches from each end of the hallway. Measure your hallway and subtract 12-24 inches for the ideal length.

Should a runner touch the walls?

No, leave 4-6 inches of bare floor on each side to create a frame effect and prevent the edges from curling up against walls.

Can I use multiple runners in a long hallway?

Yes! For very long hallways, two matching runners with a small gap between them often look better than one awkwardly long runner.

Explore sizes: Runner Guide • 5×7 • 6×9 • All sizes

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