Many people, though taking care of every inch of their home, never think about adding a rug in the kitchen. Actually, as “the heart” and the highest-traffic area of your home, your kitchen deserves more decorative accents, like an attractive and lasting area rug.
My article will prove to you that a good rug does much more work than a décor item. And that’s why you should seriously consider your kitchen needs and shop a good kitchen area rugs for your home.
Benefits Of Area Rugs
Interior designers in recent years suggest their clients that kitchen rugs are an absolute must-have, because of not only decorative purpose but comfortability. Here are the benefits that a rug can provide you.
More Color For Your Kitchen
Packed with kitchen equipment and furniture, your kitchen has a propensity of looking dull and somewhat boring. Then, a multi-colored or patterned rug is an easy way to liven up this space and inject your style into the kitchen.
A rug comes in a variety of shapes: runner dimensions, a traditional rectangular or round, with sleek and stylish designs to match whatever aesthetic you might desire.
Floor Protection
Since the kitchen is the place where many activities of your family happen, the floor is prone to stains and scratches. Whether they are hardwood or marble, footfall, food and water spills will make it degrade over time.
Besides, accidents like crash by stoneware or kitchen utensils can damage the floor surface. A rug might provide enough cushion to minimize smashing.
So, unless you can afford to renovate the floor regularly, a rug works well to protect it from these harms.
More Confort And Safe
Standing hour after hour to prepare food, you are bound to get pains in your feet, knees, and back. A soft rug will be much more comfortable than hardwood or tile, which eases tiredness and soreness on your feet.
Kitchen with tile floor may turn out very dangerous if there is water or oily stain on it. You and your children can fall over if you do not take caution. Placing an area rug by the kitchen sink or counter can prevent slip-and-fall accidents.
A warm rug for the cold floors will give your kitchen the inviting feel of a gathering space, keep your feet warm on a cozy walkway from the refrigerator to the pantry, countertop to stove even in freezing winter days.
Noise Reduction
If you have ever noticed, walking on a rug is much quieter than on a hard surface floor. Also, the soft layer of fabric or foam can absorb the noise from outside and the echo from other rooms.
Placing a rug in your kitchen brings the benefit of noise reduction, ensuring this place is always a relaxing space for your family.
Common Shapes Of Rug
Rug comes in three common shapes respectively suitable for three regular positions in your kitchens: Rectangle rug in front of the sink, runner rug for the space between the sink and island, and round rug under the dining table.
Rectangular Rug In Front Of Sink
A rectangular rug at the dishwashing area looks appropriate and functions great. You can choose a small rectangular mat and place it in front of your sink. Generally, standard rugs for this position are rectangular and measures 3 feet by 5 feet.
Runner Rug Between Sink And Island
If you have a stylish galley kitchen, looking for a runner rugs. The space between cabinets, island, sink will look very charming with a patterned rug.
You can leave some space between the cabinets and the rug or let it fill the space. This creates a very luxurious, intimate space while maintaining its practicality.
Round Rug Under Dining Table
A large-size round rug will be most great to run under a dining table if you have an eat-in kitchen. The rule of thumb is that the rug has the table’s diameter plus about three feet to keep the chairs still on the rug when you scoot them in and out.
What Are The Best Area Rugs for Kitchen?
From hundreds of choices, I trim dow 12 best area rugs for the kitchen as below. A specific label with a short description for each product will help you have a
- Best Overall: Sky Mat Anti Fatigue Comfort Area Rug
“An excellently anti-fatigue mat for a comfy and stress-free cooking experience.” - Best for Budget: DII Contemporary Reversible Round Area Rug
“A perfect combination of durability and style, these rugs are perfect for your kitchen.” - Best for Pet Owner: Ottomanson Contemporary Design Non-Slip Area Rug
“Durable and sleek designs to create an excellent product that goes beyond expectations.” - Best Design: Ottomanson Home Collection Modern Area Rug
“Add a touch of nature to your space with this adorable floral-inspired rug.” - Best Anti-Fatigue: Royal Anti-Fatigue Area Rug for Kitchen
“Ergonomic design to offer smoothing support for your knees, feet, and delicate joints.” - Best with Jute: nuLOOM Natura Collection Jute Area Rug
“Treat your tired feet with softness and warmth by using this soft runner rug in your kitchen.” - Best for Sink Area: Lifewit Area Rug for Kitchen
“A perfect blend of softness and support for standing all day in the kitchen without pain.” - Best for Prep Area: KMAT Long Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Area Rug
“Covered by soft flannel and filled in with premium memory foam, this rug can relieve your tiredness.” - Best for under Dining Table: Safavieh Monaco Collection Area Rug
“A functional and decorative rug to create a trendy compliment to your space and home décor.” - Best for Easy Cleanup: NewLife by GelPro Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Area Rug
“This mat is designed with incredible anti-fatigue features to reduce the painful feeling of doing dishes.” - Best Durable: DII Variegated Recycled Yarn Area Rug
“This handwoven recycled yarn design is for people who are on the hunt for a timeless rug.” - Best Traditional Handwoven: Safavieh Rag Rug Collection Kitchen Area Rug
“Refresh your kitchen’s space with this fashionable handwoven rug, a natural product from India.”
Area Rugs Comparison Table 2021
The following short table summarizes the most important features that the best area rugs should offer. Let’s take a quick look and make some comparisons to find out what’s going to suit your kitchen best.
My Reviews For The Best Area Rugs for Kitchen in 2021
You will find more information about the top 12 best area rugs for the kitchen below via my reviews. I will take the features, functions, pros and cons of each pick into more careful consideration.
1. Sky Mat Anti Fatigue Comfort Area Rug
(Best Overall)
These comfortable mats are perfect for placing at the sink, stove, countertop, or dishwasher. Its anti-fatigue properties will help reduce tiredness, fatigue, and aches when working in the kitchen.
For secure use, the edges are beveled to prevent tripping and falling accidents while the non-slip bottom keeps the mat in place. These mats are durable, good-looking, and easy to keep clean.
Unlike the other floor mats on this list, Sky Mat is available in various color options with attractive pattern design. So it is a nice match for any space in your house.
Key Features:
- Soft foam core
- Non-slip bottom
- Beveled edge to minimize the risk of tripping accidents
- Stain-resistant and waterproof
Pros
- Offer great smoothing support
- Quality construction and nice design
- Many size and color options to suit any size
- Superb easy to clean
Cons
- Some users complained it loses its shape after heavy use
- Costly
Product Specifications:
Brand | Sky Mats |
Thickness | ¾ inches |
Size | Three sizes |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Nine color options |
Material | Foam |
Back material | No backing |
Wave type | Not apply |
Watch this video to have a close-up view on this product:
2. DII Contemporary Reversible Round Area Rug
(Best for Budget)
Whether you choose a runner for the galley of your kitchen, or a larger version to place under your kitchen table, this multi-color rug is worth your consideration.
This product is handmade from recycled fabrics, so each rug is unique. It comes in a wide range of sizes and colors, so you are sure to find a color fit perfectly in any room in your home.
Thanks to the handwoven method, taking strips of recycled fabric and lining them repeatedly, these rugs are double-sided and durable, standing up to everyday wear and tear in high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
Key Features:
- Available in six sizes: 8×10′, 4×6′, 2×6′, 2×3′ rectangle; 36″ & 48″ round, fits any positions
- Ten color options can match any décor
- Every rug is handwoven from recycled fabrics
- Is reversible for longer life
Pros
- Uses good quality material
- Many options for choice
- Stylish design, suitable for any space
- Affordable
Cons
- The color transfers to your floor
- Need a rug mat to avoid slipping
Product Specifications:
Brand | DII |
Thickness | 0.25 inches |
Size | Six sizes |
Shape | Rectangle or Round |
Color | Ten colors |
Material | Recycled Fabrics |
Wave type | Handwoven |
3. Ottomanson Contemporary Design Non-Slip Area Rug
(Best for Pet Owner)
Ottomanson is a familiar brand for area rugs. Though the prices are not on the high-end side, the products impress customers with unsurpassed quality and trendy style.
The material is a machine-woven loop texture with 100% nylon low-pile machine-woven loop texture, which ensures durability and longevity. The stain-resistant nature of nylon results in fuss-free maintenance and can be ideal for homes with kids and pets.
Ottomanson provides customers with a full range of sizes to choose from, up to nine sizes and two shapes (rectangle and oval.
Key Features:
- Features a non-slip rubber back
- Low profile surface pile is stain-resistance, non-shedding, and fade resistant.
- Made from premium-quality nylon for long-lasting
- Comes in nine sizes: 10’1″x7′, 2’3″x3′, 2×5′ Oval, 2’7″ x9’10”, 3’3″x5’, 5’x6’6″, 5’x6’6″ Oval, 8’2″x9’10”, 20″x59″, two color options (Chocolate brown, Gray)
Pros
- Durable
- Has many sizes and color options to choose
- Budget-friendly
- Thin, less than a quarter of an inch thick, so minimal risk of tripping over
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- It gets some wrinkles after being rolled up
Product Specifications:
Brand | Ottomanson |
Thickness | 0.2 inches |
Sizes | Available in nine size |
Shape | Rectangle or Oval |
Color | Chocolate Brown, Gray |
Material | Polypropylene |
Wave type | Power-Loomed |
4. Ottomanson Home Collection Modern Area Rug
(Best Design)
This time, Ottomanson makes this list with a delicate and elegant floral design: serene flowers and leaves painted on backgrounds of either beige, sage green, seafoam, or red. Designed with the aesthetics in mind, Ottoman wants these rugs to be an easy match to any color schemes and decor ideas.
When it comes to functionality, these rugs work great to preserve your floors from dirt, scratches, wear and tear. There is also a non-slip rubber back to prevent slips and falls.
Machine-made construction with the material of 100% polypropylene is very suitable for high-traffic areas.
Key Features:
- Exquisite floral design
- Low-pile, machine-woven loop texture
- Made of 100% polypropylene
- Seven sizes: 2×5′ Oval, 2’x7′, 3’3″x5’, 5’x6’6″, 5’x6’6″ Oval, 8’2″x9’10”, 20″x59″, four color options
- Features a non-slip rubber back
Pros
- Eye-catching contemporary designs
- Budget friendly
- Optimal slip, stain resistance
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- It gets some wrinkles after being rolled up
Product Specifications:
Brand | Ottomanson |
Thickness | 0.2 inches |
Size | 2′ X 5′ |
Shape | Oval |
Color | Floral Garden Design |
Material | 100% polypropylene |
Wave type | Power-Loomed |
5. Royal Anti-Fatigue Area Rug for Kitchen
(Best Anti-fatigue)
You have issues with back and joint when standing for a long time? This is the best comfort mat you can buy at a budget-friendly price.
The rug is designed with premium material, which can relieve up to 40% pressure on your knees and feet, according to the manufacturer’s states. Truly, with 3/4″ inch cushioned support, you will feel your blood flows smoothly and you can stand working for many hours without aches.
This product is stain-resistant and waterproof. Consequently, it is super easy to clean material, with a damp cloth or vacuum.
There are three colors and four sizes, so you can add it to the kitchen, living room, or office.
Key Features:
- 0.75 thick foam
- Non-toxic, Prop 65 compliant, latex and phthalate-free
- Available in three colors and fours sizes
- Stain-resistant and waterproof
Pros
- Significantly reduce fatigue levels
- Securely use on wood, laminate, marble or any type of floor
- Superb easy to maintain
- Affordable price
Cons
- Likely punctured when stepped on with high heels
Product Specifications:
Brand | Equinox International |
Thickness | 0.75 inches |
Size | Four sizes |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Three color options |
Material | Foam |
Wave type | Not apply |
6. nuLOOM Natura Collection Jute Area Rug
(Best with Jute)
Made from 100% jute, this handwoven rug from nuLOOM is on the pricey side. To prove it worth your money, these rugs offer remarkable softness and comfort to each step in your kitchen.
The rug is quite thick and woven, very sturdy. You can walk on it with bare feet without any uncomfortable feeling. With these rugs on the floor, you will love the pathway from refrigerator to pantry, countertop to the stove. To clean the rugs, you have just to shake off any dirt or debris.
This area rug also comes in many sizes, as small as 2 feet 8 inches by 8 feet and as large as 12 by 15 feet.
Key Features:
- Handwoven rug
- 100% jute for comfort and durability
- Comes in fourteen sizes, seven color options
- Because of being handmade, each rug is unique
- Only in a rectangular shape
Pros
- The material of jute promises durability and softness
- Neutral colors ensure an easy match into existing décor
- Premium-quality product
- Ideal for winter
Cons
- Because it is made of 100% jute, it does shed a little
- Pricey
Product Specifications:
Brand | nuLOOM |
Thickness | 0.5 inches |
Size | Available in fourteen size |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Seven colors |
Material | Jute |
Wave type | Handmade |
7. Lifewit Area Rug for Kitchen
(Best for Sink Area)
You are finding a rug to place in front of the sink and keep this place dry, Lifewit Bath Runner Rug is the best choice. With a shaggy surface, it will save your floors from dripping water.
Completed with strong non-slip TPR backing, the rug offers better stability to withstand high traffic for a long time.
The rug feels very soft and comfortable to walk on with a thickness of 0.8 inches and made from 100% chenille. You can place these rugs in your kitchen, bathroom, living room, hallway, doorway, or office.
Key Features:
- Made from 100% chenille
- Strong non-slip TPR backing
- Pile height: shag
- Comes in one size and one color
Pros
- Gives off a cozy feel
- Great durability
- Excellent water-absorbent
- Multiple uses
- Can be machine washed and machine dried
Cons
- Standing on it barefoot is uncomfortable
- The bottom should be a little more grippy
Product Specifications:
Brand | Lifewit |
Thickness | 0.8 inches |
Size | One size (26″×71″) |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Grey |
Material | Chenille |
Back material | Rubber |
Wave type | Power-loomed |
8. KMAT Long Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Area Rug
(Best for Prep Area)
Reduce the tiredness of cooking with this superb comfortable rug. With its smooth brown flannelled cover, it makes you want to walk over and enjoy its cozy feel.
The rug features great anti-deformation, water absorption, and softness, which are natures of KMAT memory foam inside. The SBR non-slip rubber underlay works great on the various surfaces, whether hardwood, linoleum, or tile, to keep the stability.
The rug’s color, chocolate brown, is perfect for concealing the stain and daily wear and tear. Furthermore, it is really very convenient and easy to clean when the KMAT kitchen mat is 100% machine washable.
Key Features:
- Made of Flannel
- 100% Machine washable, anti-deformation
- There is an SBR non-slip rubber underlay
- Features thick and density memory foam inside
- One size and two colors available
Pros
- Dry fast and easy handling
- Quick water-absorbent
- Offers great softness and coziness
- Relieve some tiredness
- Convenient and easy to clean
Cons
- The width is pretty narrow
- The rug doesn’t lay fully flat on the floor
Product Specifications:
Brand | KMAT |
Thickness | 0.79 inches |
Size | 47″ x 17″ |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Brown |
Material | Flannel, memory foam and TP rubber |
Back material | SBR |
Wave type | Not apply |
9. Safavieh Monaco Collection MNC243N Area Rug
(Best for under Dining Table)
This elegant rug in Safavieh Monaco Collection is a perfect addition to any kitchen space. Priced on the high-end side, this product features a strong construction and luxury timeless design.
Power-loomed construction and polypropylene fibers preserve your floors from dirt, scratches, wear and tear even in heavily-trafficked areas of the home like kitchen.
The jute weft backing is securely attached to the rug and will minimize the risk of slipping and falling.
There is a variety of color options and sizes, lending themselves to multiple uses in any position you desired.
Key Features:
- Available in 32 sizes for multipurpose use
- Eight color options can match any décor
- Power-loomed of long-wearing polypropylene
- Vintage design with an oversized medallion
- Low 0.375-inch pile height
Pros
- Adorable design
- Stain-resistant features
- Has a perfect size to run under the kitchen table
- Easy to maintain
- Colorfast and durable
Cons
- You have to buy a rug pad (sold separately)
- High-end price
Product Specifications:
Brand | Safavieh |
Thickness | 0.45 inches |
Size | 32 sizes |
Shape | Round, square, or rectangle |
Color | Eight colors |
Material | Polypropelene |
Wave type | Machine Made |
This video provides you more information:
10. NewLife by GelPro Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Area Rug
(Best for Easy Cleanup)
A solution to your tired feet and aching back when working in the kitchen? This anti-fatigue cushion mat offers excellent support to reduce discomfort, fatigue, and pressure.
The ergo-foam core is 5/8’’ thick to relieve the pressure on your spine and joints, allowing you to stand for an hour after hour preparing food without tiredness. Worry about deformation? The high-quality material and strong construction keep the mat in form for prolonged use.
The rug features a waterproof and stain-resistant surface, which makes cleaning a breeze. If you detect stains, use a damp cloth using mild soap and water to wipe them off.
Key Features:
- Thick, supportive ergo-foam core
- Features stain-resistant and waterproof surface
- Has a steady, non-skid bottom surface
- Available in multiple colors, only one size
Pros
- Easy to keep clean
- Offer great comfort, support to the body
- Reduce fatigue levels
- Very stable and durable
- Nice design
Cons
- Need an additional non-slip pad for safety
Product Specifications:
Brand | NewLife by GelPro |
Thickness | 5/8 inches |
Size | 18 x 30 inches |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Grasscloth Charcoal |
Material | Ergo-foam core |
Wave type | Not apply |
Check out this video before you make any decision:
11. Safavieh Rag Rug Collection Kitchen Area Rug
(Best Traditional Handwoven)
If you are into traditional handwoven rugs, Safavieh’s Rag Rug Collection is a possible candidate.
This particular rug stands out because of the handwoven construction of soft cotton fibers and the classic design of American textile art, which makes it very lightweight and charming.
With the nice thickness of a quarter of an inch, the rug feels soft and comfortable when you walk on.
Safavieh offers this product in a wide range of sizes and colors to accommodate a mid- to large-size space, from kitchen to the living room and bedroom.
Key Features:
- Made from 100-percent cotton fibers
- Flatweave pile height
- Handwoven construction
- Sleek designs with primary aqua color
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
Pros
- Versatile design suitable for many décor settings
- Handmade by skilled village artisans in India
- Made of high-quality material
- Adorable design
Cons
- Need an additional non-slip pad for safety
- Many reviews said it has a moldy smell at first
Product Specifications:
Brand | Safavieh |
Thickness | 0.25 inches |
Size | Multiple sizes |
Shape | Rectangle, square, round |
Color | 9 colors available |
Material | Cotton Pile |
Wave type | Handwoven |
This video shows more about this product:
12. DII Variegated Recycled Yarn Area Rug
(Best Durable)
This handwoven recycled yarn design is for people who are on the hunt for a timeless rug.
The cotton rugs have a textured design with dark colors that effectively mask stains. It is handwoven from 100% cotton to ensure the maximum softness for your feet.
The most attractive thing about this rug is that the manufacturing process makes these rugs look high-end, especially for their reasonable price.
And good news for the people who hate cleanup, this rug is machine washable. As a bonus, it is also reversible for double-side use.
Key Features:
- Double-sided for long use
- Unique rugs, no two are the same
- 100% cotton
- Machine washable
Pros
- Unique rugs, no two are the same
- Affordable price
- Easy and convenient to maintain
- Long-lasting and great for high traffic areas
Cons
- Need to purchase an additional non-slip mat for more secure
- It will slip on a hard floor
Product Specifications:
Brand | DII |
Thickness | Not specified |
Size | 2 x 3 inches |
Shape | Rectangle |
Color | Three color option |
Material | Recycled yarn |
Wave type | Handwoven |
Buying Guide For The Best Area Rugs for Kitchen
There are crucial factors that you have to consider if you want to buy the best area rugs for the kitchen. Be sure to read this buying guide before making any purchase.
Material
Material of a rug decides on the comfort level, how easy to maintain it, and how long it is used. There is a wide range of materials, like jute, cotton, synthetic fibers, or foam.
Generally, jute or cotton gives a more luxurious feeling, and it is better to keep your feet warm in cold weather.
Synthetic fibers, including polypropylene, nylon, and polyester, are more and more common to make rugs. They offer more durability and maintain convenience thanks to its natures like waterproof, stain resistance.
You will find some kitchen mats made of memory foam. This type of material often comes with anti-fatigue nature and smoothing support.
Pile Height
The pile height is an important factor to think about. Pile height for an area rug is low, medium, and high. Rugs with low pile tend to be more durable and easier to keep clean since its material is colorfast and resistant to stain, debris, and pet hair.
Medium or high pile area rugs are softer and cushier, making your room look cozier and more luxurious. They are a great choice for the tile floor to provides extra padding and instant warmth underfoot.
As a general rule, low-pile rugs are less expensive and more suitable for a room that gets a lot of foot traffic.
Size And Shape
A rug with the wrong size and shape will be out of proportion with space where you place it and cannot fulfill its duty. You certainly pick the right one by following three simple steps:
First, you have to decide where the rugs will sit on: by the sink, in the prep area, between your island and cabinets, or under the dining room.
Second, measure the space and estimate the area that you want to cover.
Last but not least, consider which shape suits best your space: rectangle, oval, runner, or round. Square and rectangular rugs fit neatly in nearly any space. Oval rugs tend to soften space containing sharp lines while round rugs work well in the center of the room.
Note: When shopping for rugs, make sure to leave at least 6 from the rug’s edge to the edges of the nearby wall and cabinets.
Color
The pattern and color of the kitchen rug that you choose affects the ultimate look of your room. Obviously, you need to think about what is your favorite colors and what is the color scheme of the existing décor, the tones of the flooring, walls, and ceiling.
Imagine how different colors will work together to decide whether the rugs will stand out or blend in this style. And also remember that dark color and pattern design will do a great job to conceal stains and wear and tear.
FAQs
Let us check out some frequently asked questions to have more tips for kitchen area rugs.
My Top Pick
I take Sky Mat Anti Fatigue Comfort Area Rug for my final pick because of its incredible features to reduce tiredness when I have to stand for a long time in the kitchen. Moreover, there are various colors available, which can come nicely with any décor and style.
For those who hate cleaning like me, this stain-resistant nature of the rug is a decisive advantage.
Leave a comment below if you need more advice about area rugs for kitchen. I will give you as much information as possible to have the right shopping decision.
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