Rug On Carpet: Bedroom Design Ideas And Tips

There are many reasons to put a rug on top of a carpet in a bedroom. It can add colour, pattern, and texture to a space, detract attention from carpeting you don't like, and hide stains, damage, and imperfections. It can also be a way to add a personal touch to a rented space or to add luxury to a room. When layering rugs on top of carpeted floors, it's important to consider the texture, colour, and size of the rug to achieve the desired look and avoid a cluttered appearance.

Choosing the right rug

When it comes to choosing the right rug for your bedroom, there are several factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect rug to complement your space:

Size and Placement

The size and placement of your rug can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your bedroom. A rug that is too small may appear awkward and out of place, while a rug that is too large can overwhelm the space. It is recommended to leave a gap of around 20cm between the rug and the walls, and at least 5cm between the rug and the edges or legs of large pieces of furniture.

For a classic, cohesive look, opt for a large rug that extends about 45-60cm beyond all sides of the bed. This way, only the pattern or colour at the outer part of the rug will be visible. Alternatively, for a more eclectic style, use smaller rugs on either side or at the foot of the bed. You can also try layering different textures, such as natural hides with plush wool.

If you have a larger bedroom, you have several options. You can choose one large rug or opt for several smaller rugs. Here are some placement options:

• Under the entire bed frame and bedside tables for a dramatic statement. For a king-sized bed, this would typically be an oversized rug of around 300cm x 400cm, while for a queen-sized bed, an extra-large rug of approximately 240cm x 330cm would suffice.
• Under only the lower two-thirds of the bed frame, leaving the head of the bed and nightstands on the floor. For a king-sized bed, a rug of around 240cm x 330cm would be suitable, while for a queen-sized bed, a large rug of about 200cm x 300cm is recommended.
• On either side of the bed, or at the base, as a rectangular landing or floor runner, or even overlapping smaller rugs.
• Under a chest of drawers, dresser, or tallboy.
• In the corner as part of a reading nook.

Material

The material of your rug will depend on the style and functionality you desire. Since bedrooms are typically low-traffic, private spaces, you may want to consider plush, high-pile rugs, cowhide rugs, sheepskin rugs, or shag rugs for a luxurious and comfortable feel. On the other hand, if you have pets or young children, a rug that is easy to maintain and resistant to stains may be a more practical choice. Here are some common rug materials to consider:

• Wool rugs: Soft, strong, and luxurious, with stain-resistant properties.
• Synthetic rugs: Soft, durable, non-shedding, stain-resistant, and easy to vacuum.
• Flatweave rugs: Bohemian feel, but may not be as durable as pile rugs.
• Natural fibre rugs: Casual, natural feel, but may not be as easy to clean.

Colour and Pattern

The colour and pattern of your rug are ultimately a matter of personal preference and style. However, since bedrooms are spaces for rest, it is generally advisable to avoid anything too visually stimulating. Here are some colour and pattern suggestions:

• Light neutral solid colours to create a bright and airy atmosphere.
• Dark neutral solid colours to balance feminine bedrooms, making them feel more grounded and contemporary, or to contrast with light-coloured furniture and bedding.
• Bold colours and patterns to add personality or colour to mostly white rooms, and to contrast with wooden flooring and solid-coloured bedding.
• Light colours and patterns to soften industrial-style bedrooms.
• Black and white to achieve a sleek and modern look while maintaining a bright and airy feel.

Anchoring

To prevent your rug from slipping or creating a tripping hazard, it is essential to anchor it securely. You can use double-sided tape, a rug pad, or heavy furniture to hold the rug in place. If placing a rug over an existing carpet, consider using a "carpet-to-carpet" pad to prevent shifting and wrinkling. Alternatively, you can use rug tape or screws to secure the rug, though these methods may damage the carpet underneath.

Maintenance

Even when placed under a bed, area rugs require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Consider using double-sided carpet tape or a nonslip rug mat to prevent the edges from bunching up. Additionally, a rug pad can provide extra cushioning, reduce noise, and insulate the room. Remember to vacuum your rug regularly and clean it at least once a year.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right rug to enhance the comfort, style, and functionality of your bedroom.

Pros and cons of rugs on carpet

Rugs can be layered over carpets to achieve various aesthetic and functional results. Here are some pros and cons of putting a rug on a carpet:

Pros:

• Hiding stains and damage: Rugs can be used to cover up any stains, damage, or imperfections on your carpet.
• Extending the life of the carpet: A rug can reduce wear and tear on your carpet, especially in areas with a lot of foot traffic, such as entryways and hallways.
• Adding style and texture: Layering a rug on top of a carpet can add colour, pattern, and texture to a space. It can also help define and anchor spaces in your home.
• Extra padding: A rug can provide extra padding and a softer surface to walk on, especially in bedrooms.
• Personalisation: Rugs are a great way to add a personal touch to a rented space, where you might not be able to change the carpet. They are also easy to switch out if you want to change the look of a room.
• Reducing noise: Rugs can help to absorb sound and reduce noise, which is especially beneficial in bedrooms if you have different schedules than your partner.

Cons:

• Slipping and buckling: One of the challenges of placing a rug on top of a carpet is that it can slip, buckle, or bunch up, creating a trip hazard. This can be mitigated by using a rug pad or tape designed to hold a rug in place on top of a carpet, or by anchoring the rug with heavy furniture.
• High maintenance: While rugs can hide stains and damage on a carpet, they will also need to be regularly cleaned and maintained to prevent dirt and dust build-up.
• Cost: Depending on the size and material, buying a rug can be expensive.

Rug placement

When placing a rug on an existing carpet, it's important to consider the texture, colour, and size of the rug in relation to the carpet and the room.

Texture

The key to layering rugs on carpet is contrast. A low-profile, thin, flat-woven rug made from natural materials will sit well on a plush carpet, whereas a thick, plush rug will suit a low-pile or looped carpet. A jute rug is a good base for layering, as it is durable, feels good underfoot, and has a neutral colour that ties the layers together. Frieze and extra-soft, long-strand carpets are not recommended for layering rugs.

Colour

If the carpet is patterned, choose a rug in a complementary solid colour or one that picks up tones from the carpet's design. Alternatively, a monochromatic look can be achieved by varying the tones and shades of the same colour.

Size

The rug should be sized in proportion to the room and the furniture within it. A rug that is too small may look awkward, while a rug that is too large can overwhelm the space. A typical guideline is to have at least 18 inches of rug beyond the sides and foot of the bed. For a queen-sized bed, a 6'x9' or 8'x10' rug is ideal, while a king-sized bed would require a 9'x12' rug. For a full-sized bed, a 5'x8' rug will suffice.

Placement

The most common spot for a rug in the bedroom is under the bed, with the rug placed perpendicular to the bed and pulled halfway underneath. This gives a soft surface to step onto and maximises the usable rug space. Alternatively, a rug can be placed in the middle of the room or at the foot of the bed. A long and narrow rug, like a sheepskin or vintage Persian runner, can be placed on one or both sides of the bed. If using a bench at the foot of the bed, the rug should be sized so that all four legs of the bench can rest on it.

Anchoring your rug

When placing a rug on top of carpet, it is important to anchor it to prevent unwanted ripples, tripping hazards, and sliding. Here are some tips for anchoring your rug:

Use Furniture as Anchors

Place heavy furniture on top of the rug, ensuring that the edges of the rug go under the furniture. Ideally, the rug should be held in place by furniture on all four sides. However, if the furniture is heavy enough, anchoring opposite sides may be sufficient. This method works well for rugs in sitting areas, where the edges of the rug can be placed under a sofa or chairs.

Use a Rug Pad

Nadia Watts, the founder of Nadia Watts Interior Design, recommends using a rug pad when placing a rug on top of carpet. "Rugs will add friction to your flooring—no matter what's underneath—so use a pad to protect and prolong the life of the carpet," Watts advises. Non-slip rug pads designed for holding rugs on top of carpet are called "carpet-to-carpet" pads. These pads prevent rugs from shifting and rippling and protect the carpet underneath from damage caused by friction.

Use Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape can be used to keep your rug in place, especially if one side of the rug cannot be anchored with furniture. It is important to use tape specifically designed for carpets, typically silicone-based. Apply the tape in an X shape from diagonal corner to corner on the back of the rug, then place it on the carpet and walk over it or use a carpet roller to help it stick.

Use Rug Grippers or Rug Tape

Rug grippers or rug tape are another option for anchoring your rug. This method involves using a double-sided adhesive to anchor the rug to the floor. However, be cautious as the wrong type of tape may pull at the fibres of your rug and carpet when removed. Additionally, rug tape is typically single-use, losing its grip once it is pulled up.

Screw Down the Rug

As a last resort, you can screw down your rug to the carpet and subfloor. This method is not commonly recommended, as it will leave small holes in your rug and carpet. However, it can be effective in high-traffic areas where other anchoring methods may not hold.

By using one or a combination of these anchoring methods, you can ensure that your rug stays in place and doesn't become a tripping hazard.

Cleaning and maintenance

To keep your rug and carpet clean, it's important to regularly vacuum both, especially if you have pets. You should vacuum your rug and carpet at least once a week, and more if it's a high-traffic area.

If your rug is visibly dirty, it's time for a deep clean. You can hire a professional to do this, or you can do it yourself. If you want to clean your rug yourself, here's a step-by-step guide:

• Remove loose dirt with a vacuum: Be sure to vacuum both sides of the rug, as dirt and dust can accumulate on the back.
• Test the cleaner on your rug for colourfastness: You can use a store-bought rug cleaner or shampoo, or you can add a couple of capfuls of mild liquid dish soap to a bucket of warm water. Do not use hot water, as it may shrink the fibres or fade the colour. Test the cleaner on an inconspicuous part of the rug to make sure it doesn't cause the colours to run.
• Work the cleaner into the rug and let it sit for several minutes: Using a sponge or brush, scrub the shampoo or detergent deep into the rug until you see suds. Allow the solution to sit for several minutes before rinsing.
• Rinse the rug: Thoroughly rinse the rug with a garden hose, making sure the water is clear of soap suds.
• Remove excess water: Use a squeegee to remove as much excess water as possible from the rug. Be careful to work only in the direction of the rug's nap.
• Allow both sides of the rug to dry completely: Lay the rug flat to dry. Once the top side is dry, flip it over so the bottom can dry as well.
• Vacuum or brush the rug: After the rug is dry, run a vacuum or a clean soft-bristled brush over it to loosen compacted fibres.

In addition to regular vacuuming and deep cleaning, there are a few other things you can do to maintain your rug and carpet:

• Rotate your rug occasionally to ensure even wear.
• Spot clean spills and stains as soon as they happen.
• Use a carpet stain remover to treat stains.
• Sprinkle baking soda or an odour eliminator on your rug before vacuuming to help eliminate odours.
• If you have a jute or sisal rug, avoid getting it wet. Instead, regularly vacuum and gently dust the rug. For a deeper clean, take the rug outside and shake it or use a rug beater.

Frequently asked questions