Where to Place Small Rugs in Your Home for the Biggest Impact

Small rugs may sound low-impact in theory, but they have the potential to elevate your space significantly. Whether we’re talking the kitchen, bedroom, entryway, or bathroom, there are lots of little ways to ensure you’re making full use of your space—and breathing personality into your design decisions. 

Small rugs, including 2’x3’ and 3’x5,’ work great at not only adding a pop of style to the nooks and crannies in your home, but are a great way to add some cushion underfoot in the areas you spend a lot of time. 

To kick-start your inspiration, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways to style small rugs in every room of your home.

In the Foyer 

No matter how much style your home already has to offer, an entry rug with personality will delight guests as soon as they walk in the door. If you’ve got a larger foyer at the entrance to your home, a 3’x5’ entry rug will look great placed in the center of the space. For added style, try placing a table with a floral arrangement on top of the rug. Or keep the rug closer to the base of the stairs where there’s more traffic.  

Rug Recommendation: This mid-century modern rug subtly mimics the geometric wallpaper, giving this foyer both character and cohesiveness. 

In the Entryway

The entryway is one of the most high-traffic areas in the home, so placing a small rug by the front door is a great way to not only add style to the space, but keep your floors clean and dry. Try a small 2’x3’ or 3’x5’ entry rug just inside the front or back door of your home where people can wipe their feet.

Rug Recommendation: You can never go wrong with a durable indoor and outdoor-approved Re-jute rug, especially when we’re talking about an area your family will be in and out of frequently. The way this sand-colored 3’x5’ jute rug looks against the mosaic flooring and the earth-toned door is *chef’s kiss* perfection.

In the Kitchen

Styling a small washable rug in front of the kitchen sink or a runner in a galley-style layout is common, but why not change things up by defining your furry friend’s space? Placing a 2’x3’ rug at the end of the kitchen cabinet not only adds a small dose of color and style to an often overlooked area, but it’s a great way to keep your pet’s dishes contained. 

Rug Recommendation: The distressed Persian-inspired design of this 2’x3’ kitchen rug pairs perfectly with the pup’s bowls, as well as the kitchen’s mid-century modern aesthetic. As a bonus, since the rug is water-resistant, stain-resistant, and machine washable, you never have to worry if your furry friend makes a mess on your kitchen rug. 

In the Office

If you’re someone who essentially lives in your work-from-home space, it’s about time you invest in a rug to match your vibe. Lay one underneath your rolling desk chair, like this black and white 3’x5’ office rug, so that your workspace feels more like home and less like the office. 

Rug Recommendation: As seen above, the bohemian-style rug is a nice touch to the houseplant-filled space. Opt for a neutral color palette to keep the overall vibe relaxed and comforting. 

In the Bedroom

Maximize your bedroom’s design potential by choosing a rug that complements your decor. While an area rug is great for large bedrooms when placed under the bed, a small bedroom rug can pack a punch, too. Try placing a 2’x3’ rug at the bedside to energize your space and make slipping out of bed in the morning a little less dreary.

Rug Recommendation: In a neutral bedroom, opt for a vibrant Southwestern-inspired rug to add a pop of color and warmth to the room. 

In the Bathroom

It practically goes without saying that every bathroom needs a washable rug. It’s not only practical to be able to keep it looking fresh and clean, but it’s also the perfect way to add some cushion to a hard floor. Try placing a 2’x’3’ bathroom rug in front of the toilet or a small vanity. If you’ve got a larger bathroom, a 3’x5’ rug will look great centered in the middle of the room. 

Rug Recommendation: The sophisticated Persian-inspired 3’x5’ design seen here borders the his-and-her sinks so as to prioritize comfort and glam, simultaneously.

In the Laundry Room

Chances are you spend a lot of time in the laundry room. Make the space more stylish and special by placing a small rug in front of the washer and dryer. A 2’x3’ or 3’x5’ rug works great in smaller laundry rooms. 

Rug Recommendation: Liven up your laundry room with a rug tinted in subtle blues and neutral colors for a space that evokes a calm mood. As seen here, the 3’x5’ Persian-style design looks elegant teamed with the modern farmhouse-inspired room’s grey cabinets and door.

In the Closet

If you’re blessed with a big closet, you might as well take advantage of the ample design space with a cozy 3’x5’ rug that invigorates the room. Turn the overlooked area into a special place with a rug placed in the center of the room. 

Rug Recommendation: The ivory marble motif of the small rug seen here is the perfect addition to this homeowner’s boho-chic aesthetic. 

On the Balcony

Just because your outdoor space is small doesn’t mean it can’t have a big style. A beautiful 3’x5’ outdoor rug is the perfect way to add style and cushion without requiring a lot of room. Place it under a small table and chair for a relaxing spot to hang out.

Rug Recommendation: Your balcony is a paradise in its own right, and a tropical-inspired 3’x5’ outdoor rug and various types of greenery will ensure it feels as zen as possible. The teal and blue-colored abstract banana leaf print is a delightful contrast to the multicolored checkered pillow.

On the Porch

Greet your guests in style with not one but two rugs on the porch. Chances are that you’re no stranger to decorating the front porch with a doormat, but when was the last time you considered layering yours atop a larger rug to make a statement? A 3’x5’ rug looks even better in front of your door when it’s placed under a more practical doormat. 

Rug Recommendation: Try layering a tile-patterned 3’x5’ outdoor rug under a stripe doormat with heavy-duty bristles for a practical yet interesting look.