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Should I Put A Rug Under My Dining Table?

By: Nishtha Sadana

The constant dilemma of whether to style a rug underneath the dining table or not has been gaining a ton of attention. Well, it’s true that either of them has pros and cons but the major challenge arises when you dive deeper into the factors that help determine if styling a rug under the dining table is doable. Some homeowners are minimalist and believe in the idea of “less is more”, whereas some homeowners can simply not work without an area rug. And the third category is the one that isn’t sure what to do!

So, if you’re that particular one, it’s time to analyze these factors that you must consider when styling an area rug under the dining table. Post this, let’s also have a look at various pros and cons for you to make informed decisions!

Interior Design Style

The interior design style of your dining room has a major role to play. Is it bold and rustic like industrial or soft and cozy like modern farmhouse? Well, in the first case, you don’t really need a rug but in the latter, an area rug under the dining table will help enhance the room and make it feel more welcoming.

Simultaneously, you must also analyze if your dining room truly needs a rug. So, if your dining table has an L-corner bench seating – it’s quite likely that you require a rug. On the other hand, if you have an open concept plan where living and dining space are interconnected, it’s time to let that rug play segregation! 

Budget

Sometimes, an area rug comes with a heavy price tag! So, it’s important to determine if styling an area rug is truly worth it. For some types of floor plans, the rug underneath the dining table is hardly visible – which is why you can consider skipping the idea and save an extra penny. On the other hand, there are some plans where an area rug will play a must to complete the look of your dining room.

At the same time, you must check the quality of your rug before making that hefty purchase. Remember, it’s going to stay a long time in your home and it should be worth every dollar!

Functionality

Practicality and functionality are two aspects that you simply can’t ignore. So, first and foremost, do you have kids and pets at home? Well, if yes – styling a high-priced and luxurious area rug under the dining table should be secondary. After all, you don’t want to deal with constant spills around the rug, right? But what if rugs are also protecting your kids from getting injured? 

Now here’s a smart act – invest in a lower-priced rug until your kids are grown-ups or simply choose fabrics that are easy to maintain and can be washed at home. Furthermore, you must also consider the type of flooring and its maintenance requirements. For instance, in the case of wooden flooring – it’s subjected to scratches and an area rug will help protect the floors. On the other hand, if you have ceramic tiles, it shouldn’t be a concern!

Space

How much space do you have in your dining room? Well, if it’s too tiny – you might not need an area rug at all. On the other hand, a larger-sized dining room will require an area rug to make the space feel cozy, comfortable, cohesive, and calm. Yes, the size and perspective of your dining room have a major say!

To further make your dining room look balanced, style an area rug underneath the dining chairs that extends up to 24” from the perimeter of the dining table. This way, you’re avoiding any possible tripping of the chairs when pulled or seated.

Hence, these are the 4 major factors to keep in mind when styling an area rug under the dining table. If all of them say yes, you know that you need an area rug! Alongside the major factors, let’s also have a look at various pros and cons of styling an area rug in the dining room.

Pro 1: Rugs can Pull the Dining Room Together

Rugs have the potential to play a jewel in your dining room. Yes, not only does it make the space feel cozy and comfortable but also refines the palette and adds color and character to the room. You can throw a personal touch to your dining room with the help of an area rug that outcasts a dominant feature, texture, color, or pattern.

Pro 2: Rugs can Define the Function

Especially for open concept plans, an area rug can help define the function of your dining space. It can cohesively segregate this corner and at the same time, maintain the style and decor of the room.

Pro 3: Rugs can Complete the Dining Set

Your dining table is incomplete without an area rug underneath! Don’t believe it? Well, observe it for yourself! Imagine a set of dining table and chairs without a rug! Wouldn’t it feel too empty or soulless?

Pro 4: Rugs can Make Your Feet feel Soft

When having meals, who wouldn’t like the feel of a soft and cozy rug underneath the foot? Well, it’s the ultimate solution to feeling comfortable, welcoming, and relaxed! And especially under the dining table, a rug is a must to make you feel homely and lively.

Con 1: Move your Dining Table to Clean the Rug

One of the most difficult tasks is to remove the dining table and clean the rug! And especially if the table is heavy, this is quite a challenge! Hence, the only way to get through this challenge is to either choose a rug that doesn’t require regular cleaning or a dining table that can be easily moved around!

Con 2: Dining Room Rugs require Cleaning

If you tend to regularly host parties and organize get-togethers – it’s quite likely that your rug gets stains and spills. Furthermore, if you have kids at home – it’s time to think twice before picking a rug for your home.

Con 3: Inappropriate Dining Room Rug Sizes are a Blunder

The last thing you want to deal with is the inappropriate-sized dining room area rug. Well, it can interfere with your dining chairs and can cause tripping if pulled back or front. Hence, it’s ideal to pick an appropriate size based on the size of your room and dining table.

Summing It Up

So, what did you decide upon? Are you willing to style an area rug underneath the dining table? Well, if yes – remember to be careful when picking that perfect hue, pattern, and texture. Else, you always have the opportunity to style with other accessories like curtains, chandeliers, and centerpieces to divert attention and make a beautiful statement! 

Now that we have discussed a few factors – are you ready to spruce up your dining spaces? Well, do let me know your thoughts in the comments below!