The choice as to whether or not you should use rugs in the kitchen is definitely a debatable one when it comes to busy families. Some clients say no way we would ruin it in a week while others are open to learning about recommendations designed to weather life's storms... yep I am referring to indoor/outdoor rugs! They really are a great option for a number of reasons.
First of all indoor/outdoor rugs are generally low pile and considered to be a flat weave. A low profile rug means spilled food and crumbs tend to sit on the surface vs migrating in making them much easier to clean. Secondly a low pile rug is easier to walk on with less tripping hazards. The last thing you need is to be carrying food or drinks and trip over your rug, especially since you are probably serving 3 meals a day now with the pandemic and all!
Secondly, indoor/outdoor rugs are made from synthetic materials designed to resist water, fading, mildew and staining. Nylon, polyester, and polypropylene are commonly used and make great options. Better than that though, are rugs made from recycled plastic water and soda bottles that get the job done and are environmentally supportive. Check out www.fabhabitat.com whose rugs are featured on this post and is committed to reducing their footprint one rug at a time.
Thirdly, the design and styling of synthetic rugs have come such a long way since they were first introduced. There are so many more interesting colors and patterns to choose from today. Including a rug under the kitchen table is a great way to add personality and softness to an otherwise hard space. A runner or small rug in front of your sink is another great way to add pattern, color and texture to your kitchen. I recommend choosing firm rugs that will stay put and probably adding a rug pad underneath for comfort. Make sure your chairs are fully functional though by easily sliding on the rug while in use. Here are some guidelines to measure for what size and shape rug you need:
Rug should be the same shape as table
Measure 24-30" out from edges of table for appropriate size
Rug should be 8-12" off wall
Make sure rug won't run under sideboards or hutches or prop up back legs for leveling
The best part is how affordable indoor/outdoor rugs are! If they only last a few years they can easily be replaced. In the meantime though, you can vacuum them or take them outside to be hosed down and scrubbed with color safe bleach. Pet and kid friendly, they are hard to beat!
If you have issues with rug corners curling, try these! A few years ago I discovered the L shaped rug grippers on Amazon and boy do they work! They can be used on wood, tile, laminate and any hard flooring surface.
If you haven't heard my new FB group Kitchen, Baths and Mudrooms by Design is growing! Each week I solve one member's design challenge on a FB live for the whole group to see. Click the link to join today and submit your questions!
If you are working on designing your own kitchen grab my Free Guide while it's available! Happy weekend :) -
