The Right Rug Size for Your Kitchen

Black and White Runner Rug in White Kitchen

Kitchens get a workout—a rug in the kitchen will, too! When shopping for a kitchen rug, the most important factors to consider are comfort and cleanability. You’d want a rug that cushions your feet and that’s also easy to move around on while performing tasks. You’d also want a rug that is durable, washable, and easy to clean. Because your kitchen rug requires regular cleaning, you’d want your rug to be easy to pull up and put back into place.

Where to Place Your Kitchen Rug

Regardless of the size and shape of your kitchen, the space in front of the kitchen sink is the best, most functional place for your rug. It’s where we stand for longer periods of time so the extra cushion there really helps.

The kitchen sink is typically centered on a wall with cabinetry adjacent, so coordinate your rug with both your flooring and cabinetry, and place the rug centered in front of the sink.

If You Have a Large Kitchen

(Over 200 square feet)

2 Maral Heriz Sapphire Runner Rugs in Kitchen — Maral Heriz Sapphire Rug

Who doesn’t love a large kitchen? A space this big can most likely handle larger or even multiple rugs.

If you have a kitchen island and want a rug there, position a 5×7 or 3×5 on either or both sides of the island. If you prefer to have more visible floor space, a long runner, like a 2.5’x10’, spanning the length of the cabinets or the sink is also a good alternative.

Styling Tips:

– Leave the area around the refrigerator and stove clear from the rug.

– If you have a kitchen island and want a rug there, position the rug on either side of the island or on both sides.

– Position the rug underneath the island seating, but not underneath the island itself. You’d want to be able to easily pull the rug up for regular cleaning.

If You Have a Medium-Size Kitchen

(100 to 200 square feet)

Hendesi Heriz Bordeaux Rug in Medium Kitchen — Hendesi Heriz Bordeaux Rug

If you have a medium-size kitchen, depending on your kitchen layout, a smaller rug, like a 5’x7’ or 3’x5’, or a 2.5’x7’ runner rug in front of the sink, might work best, leaving the rest of the floor space open.

Styling Tip:

Remember that the smaller the kitchen the more wear it gets. You should be able to work efficiently without a rug getting in the way.

If You Have a Small Kitchen

(70 square feet or less)

Linear Aztec Black and White Rug in Small Kitchen — Linear Aztec Black Rug

A small kitchen can very easily feel cluttered, adding a rug and pattern may only add to that. However, the right kind of rug can add warmth and personality to an otherwise utilitarian space.

Styling Tips:

– If you do decide on adding a rug, opt for a small 2’x3’ or 3’x5′ rug or a short 2.5’x7’ runner and place it in front of the sink.

– Select a rug color that coordinates with your floor, keeping pattern light and minimal.

If You Have a Long Kitchen

(at least 10 feet long)

A galley-style kitchen consists of two parallel units, usually the stove and fridge on one side and the sink on the other, forming a long central corridor. Most small kitchens, especially in apartment homes, have this kind of layout. For this layout, a runner rug, either a 2.5’x7’ or a 2.5’x10’, would look the best.

Styling Tip:

– If the galley is wide, position the runner rug along the sink side of the kitchen. If the space is narrow, position it in the center of the kitchen.

READERS: Do you have any other tips? Share them with us in the comments section below.

Rug Guide

Cynthia Granado
Cynthia is an L.A.-based designer known for her fresh, collaborative approach that deftly balances aesthetics with function. Cynthia’s work spans architecture, interior, lighting and furniture design across an international portfolio of residential, commercial and hospitality projects. "My happy place is working with other makers, artisans, and craftsmen to realize a deeply authentic vision for each project."