Ways to Use Rugs in Your Kitchen
Ways to Use Rugs in Your Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most-used rooms in the home, from cooking to eating to being the gathering space where the family catches up each day. Optimize the room with a rug. You may be hesitant, thinking of the potential spills. However, there are rugs out there that are stain resistant, moisture resistant, and easy to clean. They add soul and style to the room, in addition to having several functional benefits. A rug will take the kitchen to the next level. Read on to find out how.

Enlarge a Galley Kitchen

You might think that there’s not much decorating you can do in the long, narrow layout of a galley kitchen. A runner rug along the corridor is a fantastic way to bring in style. If you’re aiming to create the illusion of space, choose one in a light neutral, such as gray or ivory. It will make the tight walkway feel bright and airy. Leave at least 6 inches of exposed floor space on either side to avoid a crowded effect. This space will experience heavy foot traffic and activity, so go with a durable rug material such as polypropylene. 

Kitchen Island

Runner rugs are also great for the area around a kitchen island. From prepping dinner to socializing at family get-togethers, the island is a busy spot. Eliminate the standing fatigue with rugs. The added cushioning will be a relief for feet, legs, joints, and backs. It will also make the area a fun place to hang out. Add a runner along either aisle of the island. Look for a stain-resistant feature to help with future cleaning. If you have a small island table that’s not connected to the floor, a rug placed underneath will highlight the space.

Distinguish the Dining Area

Some kitchen layouts include a space for dining. A rug creates a separation between the cooking and seating areas. The dining area will be punched up as a unique space. When choosing a rug, consider that bigger is better. You want the rug to be large enough so that the chairs aren’t hitting the bare floor when you pull them out. Plan for at least 24 inches of extra room on all sides. This will allow for the chairs to move with ease without catching. Extra bonus: your floor will be saved from chair skid marks. A rug with a low pile (thickness) or a flatweave will work best. They won’t trap dirt or crumbs as much as a high-pile rug will. Select a rug material that’s durable and easy to clean, such as polysilk.

Color Coordinator

Use a rug to tie your kitchen’s colors together. Consider kitchen linens, cabinets, hardware, visible utensils, and counter accessories. Choose a patterned or multi-colored rug that uses two or three of these colors. The result will be a kitchen that feels polished and complete. Pick out two to three colors. Choose a patterned rug with a couple of these colors. The result will be a kitchen that feels polished and complete.

By the Sink

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The kitchen is a room that involves a fair amount of standing, from cooking to washing dishes. Add comfort with a rug. Your feet will appreciate the cushioning. This area is susceptible to spills, so look for rugs that are durable, easy-to-clean, and stain resistant. If you have a one-wall kitchen, a rug placed parallel to the sink will punctuate and section off the area in a visually pleasing way.

Add Style

If your kitchen is looking lifeless, a rug can work to resuscitate it. This can be done through color, pattern, or texture. Introducing tonal variety will work wonders. Especially in apartments, it’s common that it comes with a bland, all-white space from the fridge to the lighting fixture. A rug that has a punch of color or an interesting pattern will add personality and energy to the space. If your kitchen already utilizes some color, adding texture is an excellent way to warm up the space. A textural contrast also creates a visually pleasing juxtaposition to sleek appliances. A natural material with a distinctive texture like jute or sisal is an elegant way to brighten up a kitchen. They are hardwearing and have a charming rustic look that would complement a farmhouse-style kitchen.

Add Warmth

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Kitchens usually have hard floors, whether it be tile, hardwood, or stone. This can be a drag when walking barefoot on chilly mornings. Area rugs will allow feet to land on warmer surfaces and make the kitchen a more comfortable place. In addition,they also provide a visual warmth, creating a more inviting and cozy atmosphere.

Absorb Sound

Does your kitchen sound like an episode of The Bear? Rugs provide effective sound insulation. If you have a loud cooking style, a rug will reduce the noise generated from pots and pans, slicing and dicing, or simply the sound of footsteps. Now you can whip up your culinary masterpieces without annoying the household.

Hide an Ugly Floor

Rugs are terrific in hiding a kitchen floor you aren’t crazy about. Maybe you have old laminate or a dated tile pattern that’s dragging your kitchen aesthetic down. Perhaps there’s a spot with permanent scratch marks or a weird stain. Your secrets will be safe with a rug.

Kitchens come in several layouts and sizes. They can all benefit with a rug. With benefits like adding color, protecting your floors, and creating a warm environment, a rug is an easy way to elevate the space.