Bedroom
What Size Rug for a Twin Bed?
Standard twin bed, 38 x 75 inches
Recommended Size
5' × 8'
For a 38" × 75" twin bed
The 18-24 Inch Rule
Rug should extend 18-24 inches beyond each side and the foot of the bed for a soft landing when you wake up.
Common Mistake: Using a 3×5 at the Foot
Using a 3x5 rug at the foot that looks like a bath mat
Size Options for Your Twin Bed
Choose based on your space and desired coverage.
Minimum Fit
4' × 6'
Smallest size that works - rug at foot of bed only
Works in small rooms
Good for kids' rooms
No soft landing on sides
Less design impact
Recommended FitBest Fit
5' × 8'
Two-thirds under bed, extending 18+ inches on each side
Soft landing on both sides
Proper proportion
Best fit for twin beds
None significant for twin beds
Generous Fit
6' × 9'
Fully under bed and nightstands with room to spare
Includes nightstand space
Defines sleeping area
Fuller coverage
May be excessive for small rooms
The Math: Why 5x8?
Here's why a 5×8 is the standard recommendation:
0
Starting with your Twin Bed
38" × 75"
1
Add 18-24" to each side of bed width
38" + 22" + 22" = 82" (6'10")
Result
~7 feet wide
2
Add 24-36" extension at foot
75" + 24" = 99" (8'3")
Result
~8 feet long
3
Round to nearest standard size
6'10" × 8'3" → 5×8
Result
5×8 is perfect
Recommended Rug Size
5x8
Placement Guidelines
Position your rug correctly for the best look.
Do This
- • Position rug so 2/3 extends from under the bed toward the foot
- • Center the rug with the bed frame, not the room
- • Ensure 18-24" of rug extends on the accessible side for stepping out
Avoid This
- • Don't center the rug in the room (center it on the bed instead)
- • Don't use a 3x5 accent rug as your main bedroom rug
- • Don't push the bed against the wall without rug coverage on the open side
Pro Tips
- 1Consider runners on each side as a compact alternative
- 2A 5×8 provides great coverage for small bedrooms
- 3Choose durable materials for kids rooms
Other Bedroom Options
Explore rug sizes for different furniture configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 5×8 rug is the recommended size for a twin bed, providing 18+ inches on each side for a comfortable landing when you get out of bed. A 4×6 works as a budget option at the foot only, while a 6×9 offers full coverage including nightstand space.