Long Lasting Long Runners For Kitchen Floors

Kitchen floors take a beating. Spills, crumbs, and heavy foot traffic can damage floors over time. Using long runners in the kitchen helps protect floors while adding style.

Introducing Long Kitchen Runners

Kitchen runners are long, narrow rugs designed to protect high traffic areas in kitchens. Long runners extend across larger sections of the floor compared to typical square rugs.

Runners soften hard surfaces, absorb sound, and provide insulation from cold floors. The long shape also defines spaces in open floor plans. Durability and easy cleaning are essential for kitchen use.

Benefits of Long Kitchen Runners

Long runners offer unique advantages over smaller rugs:

• Protect larger high traffic zones like between cabinets and appliances
• Softer feel underfoot while prepping meals and washing dishes
• Design impact to delineate kitchen spaces in open concepts
• Easier to clean long spill areas

Short Runners vs. Long Runners

Short runners measure up to 6 feet, ideal for covering behind sinks or protecting entryways from rain and snow. Long runners start around 6 feet but range up to 30 feet to traverse large kitchens.

Materials for Long Kitchen Runners

Choosing the right material ensures durability, easy cleaning, and stain resistance for heavy usage areas.

Cotton Kitchen Runners

Pros:

• Absorbent and soft underfoot
• Range of colors and patterns

Cons:

• Less durable than synthetic fibers
• Stains may be difficult to remove

Wool Kitchen Runners

Pros:

• Naturally stain resistant
• Insulating and warm

Cons:

• Shedding concerns
• Vulnerable to moth damage

Polypropylene Kitchen Runners

Pros:

• Colorfast and fade resistant
• Repels spills for easy cleaning

Cons:

• Prone to showing footprints
• Can feel stiff and flat

Rubber Kitchen Runners

Pros:

• Extremely durable
• Easy to sanitize

Cons:

• Limited color and pattern options
• Can feel hard underfoot during long prep tasks

Popular Sizes For Long Kitchen Runners

Kitchen runners come in different lengths and widths to suit layouts.

Standard Widths

The most common runner width is 2 to 3 feet wide. This contains spills and crumbs without obstructing floors.

Customizing Length

Measure from the edge of your cabinets or appliances to determine ideal length. Add an extra 12-18 inches so the runner extends slightly underneath for stability and to contain messes.

Oversized Widths

Runners up to 5 feet wide make a dramatic style statement for large kitchens. Ensure adequate floor space exists on all sides.

Extra Long Runners

For expansive kitchens, extra long runners stretching up to 30 feet contain messes across wider zones. Anchor them properly to avoid buckling.

Custom-Sized Runners

For tricky layouts and dimensions, many retailers offer custom-sized runners tailored to your exact measurements.

Design & Style Considerations

Kitchen runners intersect form and function. Prioritize durability first before assessing style options to harmonize with your existing decor.

Solid vs. Patterned

Solid color runners withstand stains better over time. But patterns infuse energizing style and hide soils between cleanings.

Color Considerations

Neutrals like black, grey, and tan hide dirt well. Runners tones that contrast against your cabinetry and floors help define the space.

Contemporary Styles

For sleek, modern kitchens, opt for graphic prints and unexpected color combinations like navy and yellow.

Rustic Designs

Incorporate tribal, Ikat, or distressed patterns on cotton or wool runners for farmhouse vibes.

Choosing The Right Kitchen Runners

Assess your existing flooring, traffic patterns, and typical kitchen tasks to select suitable runners.

Flooring Compatibility

Ensure runnersdesigned for hardwoods or tile transition smoothly if you have transitions between surface types.

Stain Resistance Properties

Waterproof backings and stain-repellent coatings allow quick cleanup after red wine spills and greasy drips.

Easy Maintenance is Key

Since kitchen runners handle heavy usage, pick durable fabrics that are machine washable and dryer safe for convenient cleaning.

Safety First With Non Slip Backing

Non slip rubber backings keep runners securely in place. This prevents slips on wet floors during storms or leaky appliance issues.

Where To Place Kitchen Runners

Use runners in heavy traffic zones prone to spills for the best return on investment.

Behind Stoves

Protect an area prone to grease drips and boil overs. Long runners contain the mess in one easy to clean spot.

High Traffic Walkways

Runners down the middle of kitchen work triangles cushion feet in busy meal prep areas.

Under Sinks

Absorb leaks from pipes and dripping faucets to protect cabinetry and floors.

Islands and Bars

Define seating areas and catch fallen food. Just ensure adequate clearance for stool legs.

Caring For Kitchen Runners

Routinely cleaning runners maintains their appearance and extends their lifespan.

Vacuuming

Frequently vacuum runners to lift dirt between deeper cleanings. Use attachments to reach corners.

Spot Cleaning

Immediately blot wet spills with paper towels. Use dish soap on targeted stain areas as needed.

Deep Cleaning

Periodically launder washable runners either by machine or hand. Line dry away from direct sunlight.

Replacing Worn Runners

Inspect runners occasionally for wearing and visible damage. Rotation helps distribute wear more evenly.

Where To Buy Kitchen Runners

Many affordable and trendy options exist beyond big box stores.

Online

Websites offer convenient home delivery for custom sizes and designer collaborations.

Home Improvement Stores

Retailers like Lowes and Home Depot sell basic patterns in common sizes.

Specialty Shops

Flooring stores provide experienced guidance tailored to your space.

Custom Shops

Work directly with designers online or locally to create runners to your specifications.

Costs of Kitchen Runners

Prices vary based on size, materials, and retailer.

Cotton

Basic cotton runners start around $50. High-end options run up to $500.

Wool

Expect to invest $100 to $600 for quality wool with intricate patterns.

Polypropylene

Inexpensive indoor/outdoor styles cost $30 and up. Pricier soft touch fabrics run $150-plus.

Return on Investment

Spending more upfront nets bigger rewards over years of use. Compare material warranties.

Creative Kitchen Runner Ideas

Think beyond typical floor runners with these alternative ideas.

Entry Mat Runners

Repurpose heavy duty entry mats designed for high traffic and moisture.

Anti Fatigue Mats

Cushion feet during extended meal prep with supportive comfort mats.

Unique Materials

Make a design statement with unexpected sisal, coconut coir fibers, jute, or even patio turf.

Designing With Kitchen Runners

A few tweaks helps runners harmonize with existing elements.

Echo Cabinets

Pull a subtle accent tone from paint or hardware into the runner palette.

Unify Flooring

Bridge transitions from tile to hardwood with durable all-surface runners.

Clever Placement

Use multiples staggered beneath islands and workstations to define functional zones.

Strategically placed quality kitchen runners cushion falls, insulating feet, and protecting floors across high traffic cooking zones. When selecting long lasting runners for kitchen floors, balance functionality, safety, care requirements, and affordability based on your layout, flooring, and lifestyle.