Decorating your home can sometimes feel like a huge task, especially if you're a new buyer or renter. If you're on the hunt for a kitchen rug that will suit your style but also offers functionality, it can be hard to know where to begin. To get you started, we'll provide plenty of helpful information about which waterproof and washable materials to look out for, plus we'll explain why you should go for a mat with a rubber backing.
To help you decide, we've compiled a list of the best kitchen rugs available at Amazon, Argos and John Lewis. Our picks come in a range of sizes and colours, from non-slip mini mats in muted tones like grey and black to large rugs in bright shades of red and green. If you want to make your house feel more like a home, read on to find your new favourite rug!
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Rugs designed to brighten up your kitchen come in a range of sizes, so it's important to measure the intended area before committing to a purchase. If you want a rug to cover the entire floor, you should try to leave a 15 - 60 cm gap around the edges of the room to avoid the floorspace looking too busy.
Similarly, if you intend to place your rug under a dining table then the borders should extend to roughly 60 cm around the outer edges of the table. This will ensure that your family or dinner guests can be seated comfortably without the back legs of their chairs coming off the rug and causing a wobbly seat. It provides a nice visual effect too, by 'framing' the furniture against the flooring.
You should also consider the areas of high traffic in your kitchen where the rug is likely to be walked on a lot and remember that there may be potential spillages when cooking or washing up. If you want your rug to specifically protect the floor against foot traffic, you should aim for a larger design. Or, if you're looking for a decorative rug, go for a smaller size and place it in a less busy area.
For more protection against spills while cooking, why not invest in a kitchen splashback?
Durability and appearance are the two main considerations when choosing a material for your rug. To help you decide between synthetic and natural fibres, here are a few key points about each type:
Try out a new look on your kitchen walls with these decorative tile stickers!
Out of all areas of the home, the kitchen is the most likely to be the site of an accident. It's not surprising considering all the potential hazards that come with cooking appliances and hard surfaces, but your choice of rug can help to minimise those risks.
While every household should be mindful of accidents, those who live with children or pets will need to take extra safety measures. Non-slip rugs are a great way to avoid trips and falls in the kitchen, as they typically have a backing made from rubber that grips to the flooring and prevents the rug from moving under your feet.
If you fall in love with a design that lacks non-slip backing though, you can always purchase a non-slip underlay or pads separately. Simply adhere the pads to the underside and they will act as grips, turning a sliding rug into a steady one.
Check out our recommended corner protectors to keep your kids safe around the home.
£14.95
This non-slip mat from BLADO is the perfect pick in terms of both style and floor protection. It comes in 6 colours, so you can select the right one to suit your décor. Plus, with 17 different sizes available, getting ideal coverage over any floorspace is simple.
This mat is machine-washable too and the rubber backing means it'll protect you against trips and falls. Plus, thanks to its minimalist design, you can grab it for a bargain price!
£50.00
This gorgeous patterned rug is great for neutral-toned kitchens! Although the colour scheme is subtle, it's sure to catch the eye of guests due to the striking jungle theme. There's even a small fringe on the ends to add a little texture and interest.
The blend of natural cotton and manmade polyester materials makes it robust yet extremely soft to the touch. Best of all, this rug can be easily maintained by simply vacuuming or wiping clean.
£80.00
Although this rug may look a little too bright at first glance, the multiple tones actually make it incredibly versatile. You can tie it into the colour palette of your kitchen by matching up just one of the shades with the rest of your décor.
If this colour scheme seems a little overwhelming but you like the design, it also comes in a blue and cream version. In terms of the construction, the wool and cotton blend makes this rug soft to the touch and very durable too.
£33.99
This PVC mat set from Color&Geometry is easy to pair with any kitchen, thanks to its monochrome design, and the anti-slip backing gives it an extra level of safety.
The material is wipe-clean, oilproof and waterproof, so there won't be an issue if you're prone to spillages. The thick, spongy texture is also great for relieving tension on your joints, so that's one less thing to worry about if you spend all day cooking!
£60.00
This stylish rug has an intricate design that's reminiscent of traditional Aztec patterns. Coming in three sizes, it will suit various kitchens and is easy to pair up with a neutral-toned room.
The strong construction makes it ideal for high traffic areas, as the polyester fabric allows for minimal fading and shedding. It would look lovely under a wooden dining table or as the centrepiece in a minimalist kitchen.
£24.99
This microfibre machine-washable set is backed with rubber, giving it superb non-slip properties. Both rugs have a rectangular shape that's suitable for walkways or for high-traffic areas next to sinks, hobs and worktops.
The neutral colours and coffee images are right on theme for those who love a café aesthetic, or these rugs come in 8 other pattern options if this particular design doesn't appeal.
£21.00
If you're looking for something durable yet affordable, we recommend this woven jute runner from Habitat. The long shape will complement the space alongside cabinets or the entrance to your kitchen.
The fabric cannot be machine washed but fortunately, the wipe-clean finish means it's easy to maintain. It works great with minimalist décor but might be too basic for those with more extravagant taste!
£30.00
Persian rugs have made a huge comeback in interior design over the last few years, so we love this bold red design. If that won't match up with your kitchen though, it comes in a more subtle grey option too!
Unfortunately this rug isn't non-slip, so you may have to tread carefully or buy a non-slip backing separately. Still, if you're looking for a decorative piece, you won't find anything more visually striking.
£100.00
Here's another natural fibre option for those on a slightly higher budget. This circular jute rug from ANYDAY will add a wonderful pop of texture to your floor and has a handy wipe-clean finish.
Sadly the material doesn't feel too soft to the touch and may stain easily, so this rug is best kept away from cooking and dining areas. It's also the most expensive option on our list!
£28.99
This floral patterned mat is soft to the touch and the padded construction will relieve pressure on your joints while standing in the kitchen. Plus, the fabric is waterproof which is always a bonus!
While this mat is advertised as non-slip, some Amazon customers have found that it may need nudging back into place. It's not bad for the price though and if the cheerful sunflower pattern isn't for you, there are 5 other designs to choose from.
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