How to choose and place rugs in the kitchen

A rug in the kitchen?

Absolutely! It adds warmth, cushioning, and protection in the spots where you spend the most time standing or might spill something. The right rug brings comfort—without compromising on practicality.

A white kitchen in traditional style. Several wooden dining chairs are around the table and bunting hangs from the ceiling.

Step 1: Pick the right spot and size

Not every rug fits naturally into a kitchen. Start by thinking about where you want it. Along the countertop or stove: A narrow runner is ideal. It catches spills and cushions your feet while cooking. In front of the sink: A small, water-resistant rug works best here, especially something that dries quickly. Under the dining table: Choose a larger rectangular or round rug. Make sure it extends at least 60 cm (24 in) beyond all sides of the table so chairs slide easily.
Tip: Measure carefully before you buy – especially in smaller kitchens where every centimeter counts.

A parallel kitchen with SINARP fronts in oak veneer has high cabinets on one side and base cabinets on the other.

Step 2: Choose the right material and style

In the kitchen, you want a rug that’s tough, practical, and easy to clean. Synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester are great: durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to maintain. Low-pile or flat-woven rugs are better than high-pile ones: they trap less dirt, and chairs move over them more easily. Dark colors or patterns help disguise crumbs and stains. Jute or cotton? Lovely, but best for dry areas (like under a table)—preferably washable. Tip: Match your rug to your kitchen cabinetry or flooring—go bold with contrast or keep it calm with tone-on-tone.

Step 3: Think safety and maintenance

In a space where spills happen, you want to avoid slippery rugs or ones that soak up moisture: Use an anti-slip underlay. Essential to keep the rug from moving around and to increase safety. Choose washable or easy-to-wipe rugs. Especially useful in busy family kitchens. Vacuum regularly and blot any spills immediately with a soft cloth.
Tip: Avoid thick rugs right by the sink—they dry slower and are harder to keep fresh.