Kitchen rugs and runners: a practical guide
A kitchen rug adds warmth and comfort underfoot where you stand the most. It needs to be tough, flat and easy to clean. Here is how to choose.
Best materials for kitchens
| Material | Kitchen suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Polypropylene | Excellent | Does not absorb water-based spills; wipes and blots clean |
| Washable polyester | Excellent | Can go in the machine if the label allows |
| Flatweave cotton | Good | Often washable; needs a non-slip underlay |
| Wool | Fair | Resists light spills but grease and wet feet are a challenge |
| Jute and viscose | Avoid | Water marks and stains |
Sizes
- Galley kitchen: a runner 60 to 80 cm wide, leaving at least 10 cm of floor either side, and 30 to 60 cm short of each end.
- In front of the sink: a 60 x 90 cm or 80 x 150 cm rug, or a runner along the whole run of units.
- Island: a runner on the working side, or a rug that clears the island plinth by about 15 cm. Do not let it run under the units.
- Kitchen-diner: zone the dining table with a larger rug; see the dining room rug guide.
Safety
- Choose a low or flat pile so it does not catch toes or doors.
- Always use a non-slip underlay on tiles and vinyl. See how to stop a rug slipping.
- Keep rugs clear of the oven door and hob area.
Cleaning
Shake or vacuum kitchen rugs twice a week, blot spills straight away and treat grease with washing-up liquid and warm water. Our stain removal guide covers the common culprits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best rug for a kitchen?
A low-pile polypropylene or washable rug with a non-slip underlay.
Should you put a rug in a kitchen?
Yes, it adds comfort where you stand and protects floors, as long as it is flat, washable or wipeable and secured.
What size runner for a galley kitchen?
Usually 60 to 80 cm wide and 30 to 60 cm shorter than the run of floor at each end.
Can you put a wool rug in a kitchen?
You can, but synthetic or washable rugs are far easier to keep clean there.
Shop the guide
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Amelie Lana Rug in Rust With Faded Blue Hues
from £29.98 -
Colores Cloud Gardenia CO01 Outdoor Rug in Multicoloured
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Colores Cloud Everest C011 Rug in Multicoloured
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Colores Cloud Jungle C009 Rug in Multicoloured
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Luca Rug in Sage Green
from £89.98 -
Lila Rug in Tan & Brown
from £89.98 -
Korra Loop Jute Rug in Slate Cream Wool &
from £99.98 -
Korra Loop Jute Rug in Linen Cream Wool &
from £99.98
Related guides
- Hallway runner size guide
- Washable rugs: how to choose and wash them
- How to remove stains from a rug
- All rug guides
Questions about a specific rug? Every product page lists the maker's size, material, pile height and care details. Delivery is free to England, Wales and mainland Scotland: 2-5 working days for Asiatic rugs and 1-2 working days for Livabliss rugs. See delivery and returns.