Measure your toddler's room to determine the best size of rug to purchase. In general, rugs come in standard sizes, such as 2-by-3 feet, 4-by-6 feet, 6-by-9 feet and up. The size of rug you purchase depends on the amount of space you want to cover. If you choose a shaped rug, or one printed with a decorative motif or play area, be sure that it fits completely in the space; placing a rug printed with a hopscotch board or race track under furniture, for example, will diminish the effect and prevent your child from using it.
Experiment with different rug placements before purchasing a rug. To do this, measure the length of each side of a standard rug and place a piece of tape or a sheet of paper in each corner to indicate where the rug will be placed. You might discover that you need a smaller or larger rug than you expected.
Purchase a rug that fits the décor and space requirements. It is a good idea to choose a rug that is stain-resistant or can be easily cleaned with common household cleaners, as toddlers have a tendency to create spills and stains.
Let the dominant color from the decor theme guide your color selection for the rug. Adding an area rug in a shade that coordinates with your decorating scheme will create a cohesive look in the room.
Add a pad under the rug to keep the rug secure and to create a softer surface for wobbly toddlers to land on. If you are concerned about the rug slipping, secure it to the floor using carpet tape, available at most home improvement or hardware stores.