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11 Stylish Kitchen Rugs That Will Keep You Comfortable While You Cook and Clean

From plush kitchen mats to stylish area rugs, these options blend form and function.

Composite image of Kitchen Rugs
Photo: Courtesy of Amazon, Ruggable

It can be hard to justify splurging on a nice rug for the kitchen when you know it will get spilled on, walked over, and worn out in just a matter of time. But there are many kitchen mats and carpets that provide the best of both worlds—striking the ideal balance between style and function. Whether you're someone who spends hours in the kitchen or barely makes use of the space, the benefit of a softer cushion to walk on and a rug's added beauty has its advantages.

Kitchen rugs provide comfort during long hours spent cooking or baking, and they'll ensure you're comfortable when washing dishes after dinner. Even on nights when takeout is on the menu, the furnishing will add a little something extra to your kitchen's overall aesthetic. If you choose the right design, kitchen rugs not only help tie the room to the rest of your home, but they can also provide more support in a space where you do a lot of standing.

Keith Miller, founder and interior designer at Miller Interior Design

What to Look for When Buying Kitchen Rugs

Before purchasing a rug for your kitchen, it's important to consider what materials and colors can stand up to such a highly trafficked, spill-prone area of the home.

Material

If you're adding a kitchen rug to your home, one of the biggest reasons is likely comfort. After all, standing on the hard floor can get uncomfortable after a period of time. Although cotton isn't stain-resistant, it will feel great under your feet and is typically machine-washable. If you want something extra durable, opt for a tightly woven, low-pile material (about a quarter-inch thick). "Woven sisal can weather the wear if you're fastidious and don't mind its rough texture or the way it shapes over time," says Keith Miller of Miller Interior Design. Additionally, synthetic materials, like nylon, polyester, and olefin, are great for kitchen rugs since they repel oil and dirt.

Color

You can find kitchen rugs in a variety of colors and patterns, and while you can certainly opt for something neutral, keep in mind colorful or patterned options are effective at hiding messes. "If you're starting from scratch with a color palette, aim for warmer hues in reds, oranges, and golds," says Miller. "The busier the pattern, the easier to conceal inevitable spills, so long as you schedule routine cleaning." If you want a rug with a pattern, search for something with an antique or worn look that can stand up to regular washing.

Unique Loom Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Runner Rug

Best Kitchen Runner: Unique Loom Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Runner Rug
Courtesy of Amazon

This vintage-inspired runner has a distressed, lived-in look, making it a winning choice for a high-traffic area like the kitchen. The 100 percent jute backing is safe for all floor types, including hardwood floors, so you won't risk slipping on it in the kitchen.

Sky Solutions Oasis Anti-Fatigue Mat

Best Anti-Fatigue: Sky Solutions Oasis Anti-Fatigue Mat
Courtesy of Amazon

To relieve some of the pressure your joints may feel while standing for long periods in the kitchen, you need a mat with the right balance of cushion and support. This anti-fatigue piece offers just that. A thick layer of soft foam helps to relieve pressure on the spine and lower back, as well as reduce stress on joints and muscles in the legs.

K-Mat Kitchen Rug and Mat Set

Best Set: K-Mat Kitchen Rug and Mat Set
Courtesy of Amazon

Don't underestimate the difference a kitchen mat set can make in your daily life. These rectangular, non-slip mats align to create a path along the kitchen floor so you always have somewhere comfortable to plant your feet. The microfiber furnishing is machine washable for convenient cleaning—simply place it into your washer with gentle detergent on the delicate cycle and let it air dry.

Ruggable Jonathan Adler Inkdrop Lapis Blue Rug

Best Stain-Resistant: Ruggable Jonathan Adler Inkdrop Lapis Blue Rug
Courtesy of Ruggable

Made of stain-resistant polyester, this runner is ideal if you're looking for something to place in front of your kitchen island, where prep work often takes place. The ink-inspired lines in ivory serve as a nice contrast to the moody blue background. The water- and stain-resistant rug is machine washable. Simply remove the rug cover from the pad, throw it in the washer on the delicate cycle, and then promptly place the rug in your dryer.

Ruggable Kamran Royal Blue Rug

Best Polyester: Ruggable Kamran Royal Blue Rug
Courtesy of Ruggable

Available in six different colorways—cayenne red, hazel, coral, ivory opal, royal blue, and blue quartz—this option is made from 100 percent polyester. The stain-resistant design has an antique look, meaning its colors and pattern won't appear to fade from frequently being walked on. Another washable rug, a spin in your machine will get rid of any spills, pet dander, and dirt.

Maples Rugs Georgina Traditional Area Carpet

Best Area Rug: Maples Rugs Georgina Traditional Area Carpet
Courtesy of Amazon

If you want to spruce up your kitchen with an area rug but are hesitant to invest in one knowing how easily it could get dirty, this under-$20 option is one to consider. It comes in a traditional border-style pattern with three different color options, all of which come in deep hues, so spillage won't be easily spotted. The low pile carpet is soft but not too thick, according to customers. Many reviewers also note the grips on the bottom help reduce the risk of the rug slipping.

iDesign Bamboo Floor Mat

Best Water-Resistant: iDesign Bamboo Floor Mat
Courtesy of Amazon

Water-resistant and non-skid, this bamboo floor mat is ideal for kitchens. The natural bamboo material has a coating that stands up to water spills and is lined in sturdy fabric, which adds to its durability. In addition to its clean and natural aesthetic, the mat's smooth texture and sturdy construction make it comfortable to stand on.

Ruggable Alessia Dark Wood Rug

Best Vintage-Inspired: Ruggable Alessia Dark Wood Rug
Courtesy of Ruggable

With an antique look and floral pattern, this option will surely add visual interest to your kitchen. Not only does the trellis-style design make this piece look like a cherished heirloom, but its rich espresso and deep walnut browns mean it can easily conceal spills, dirt, and other messes your rug is susceptible to. Like all of Ruggable's carpets, this iteration is water-resistant, stain-resistant, and machine-washable.

Cosy Homeer Anti Fatigue Kitchen Rug

Best Kitchen Sink Rug: Cosy Homeer Anti Fatigue Kitchen Rug
Courtesy of Amazon

This half-round rug fits nicely in front of most kitchen sinks and comes in multiple colors to match a range of kitchen styles. The textured design is soft and cushioned yet extremely supportive. What's more, the rug is easy to clean. Use a vacuum daily to pick up crumbs and pet dander, then when it needs a deep clean, pop it into your washing machine.

ReaLife Rugs Machine Washable Rug

Best Washable: ReaLife Rugs Machine Washable Rug
Courtesy of Amazon

Flat woven without pile, this premium recycled polyester rug is lightweight yet durable enough to stand up to high foot traffic. Plus, its antique look means you won't have to worry about the pattern or colors fading from frequent cleaning. When it gets dirty, simply toss it in the wash for a quick clean.

NuLoom Moroccan Blythe Accent Rug

Best Accent Rug: NuLoom Moroccan Blythe Accent Rug
Courtesy of Amazon

This top-rated accent rug is available in a variety of patterns and textures—some bold, others more understated. The low-pile carpet is as functional as it is stylish, as it's designed with easy maintenance in mind.

Updated by
Madeline Buiano
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Madeline Buiano is an associate editor at MarthaStewart.com, sharing her knowledge on a range of topics—from gardening and cleaning to home and pets. She has five years of writing and editing experience in the digital publishing industry.
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