Rectangular Red Rugs - An Easy Kitchen Update

Adding a rectangular red rug is one of the easiest ways to update the look of your kitchen. The bold pop of color livens up the space while the shape adds definition. Rectangular rugs are versatile and can work with any style of kitchen decor from traditional to modern. Plus, they serve practical purposes like protecting your floors from spills and scratches. Read on to learn all about rectangular red rugs and how incorporating one into your kitchen can take it from drab to fab.

Choosing the Perfect Rectangular Red Rug

Rectangular rugs come in a variety of materials, sizes, and textures. Consider the following when shopping for the ideal rectangular red rug:

Determine the Appropriate Size

Measure your space to find a rug that fits properly. Rectangular rugs work best underneath islands, sinks, and tables. Make sure any furniture legs sit completely on the rug. Allow an extra 12-18 inches on each side if placing the rug in a high traffic area.

Evaluate Durability

Kitchens experience plenty of spills and messes. Prioritize durability when selecting a material. Machine washable cotton or polypropylene work well. Wool rugs shed and stain easily despite being soft. Ultimately, opt for easy to clean over stylish if struggling to decide.

Add Texture for Visual Interest

While solid colors make a bold statement, texture adds depth. Flatweave, cable, striped patterns serve both form and function. Textured surfaces hide stains by nature of their busy designs. Those with shedding concerns might prefer a knit or woven aesthetic over furry cuts.

Where to Place Rectangular Red Rugs

Strategic placement amplifies both aesthetic and purpose. Use the following placements in your kitchen:

• In Front of the Sink - Contains water splashes from dripping dishes, hands, and more. Protects against slipping on wet floors.
• Under the Table - Defines the dining space. Insulates and softens hard flooring for comfortable dining.
• Near Islands or Peninsulas - Brings warmth to these high-traffic kitchen workstations. Grounds bar seating areas.
• In Walkways - Draws attention to important routes in an open concept kitchen. Defines kitchen territory within living areas.

Rectangular Red Rugs for All Kitchen Layouts

No matter your kitchen footprint, a rectangular red rug modernizes it. See how it fits within popular kitchen layouts:

Galley Kitchens

Long and narrow galley kitchens do well with runner rug styles. Use a 6' x 2' skinny red runner down the center aisle. It unifies linear look drawing the eye down the galley. Protects the entire walkway without overpowering modest square footage.

L-Shaped Kitchens

L-shaped kitchens feature ample floor space. Float a large 8' x 10' rectangular red rug within the open areas. Visually warms cold corners of the "L" while defining cook, cleanup, and gathering zones. Caution placing under the leg of the "L" to avoid awkward rug positioning.

U-Shaped Kitchens

Place rectangular red rugs smack in the center of a U-shaped kitchen's open middle. Contrasts nicely against wall of cabinetry and appliances. Plus, the sink likely lives on the inner curve of the "U" - catching any drips.

Caring for a Red Rectangular Kitchen Rug

Once you find the perfect rectangular red rug, proper care ensures its longevity. Keep these tips in mind:

• Vacuum weekly using the hardwood floor setting to avoid snags.
• Blot spills immediately then spot clean with a carpet cleaner like Resolve. Do not oversaturate.
• Avoid placing near windows or direct sunlight which can fade colors over time.
• Rotate occasionally to evenly distribute wear. This prevents visible traffic patterns.

Styling a Rectangular Red Rug

A few simple styling tricks help a red rug feel intentional versus random. Try these easy ideas:

• Anchor furniture groupings like kitchen tables or bar seating around rug borders.
• Layer rugs over patterned vinyl, tile or linoleum for a cohesive foundation.
• Echo red hues found within kitchen elements like a stand mixer, toaster, pans or wall art.
• Use Runner-style rugs to define separate cooking stations like ranges, sinks and islands.

Common Rectangular Red Rug Mistakes

As exciting as selecting that vibrant red rug might be, it's important to avoid these pitfalls:

• Choosing poor quality shag or fur materials in high moisture areas.
• Going too bold with gigantic patterns that overwhelm the kitchen.
• Putting a too small rug under larger furniture pieces like a six-person table.
• Allowing spills to set leading to difficult stain removal.

FAQs

You probably have some lingering questions about rectangular red kitchen rugs. Find answers to the most common questions below.

Are Rectangular Red Rugs Durable Enough for Kitchens?

It depends on the material, but generally yes. Stain guard treated polypropylene or polyester rugs withstand kitchen demands best. Avoid delicate natural fibers like jute, silk or sisal which stain easily. Acrylic and nylon work too, though frm synthetic fibers show wear quicker under heavy use.

Should Rectangular Kitchen Rugs Have Non-Slip Backing?

Non-slip rug pads strongly encouraged for kitchen placement. Not only does the gripper keep rugs firmly planted on the floor, but also prevents scratches underneath. Look for natural rubber backing branded as "non-marking" specifically for hardwood, vinyl or tile application. Beware lower quality pads contain chemicals that yellow floors over time.

Can You Machine Wash Rectangular Kitchen Rugs?

Another perk of polyester and polypropylene construction lies in the ability to toss small rugs into the washing machine. Use cold water, gentle cleaning agents, and air dry. Vacuum first to remove dry debris which can abrade rug fibers. Take care not to wash antiques, hand knotted styles, or those with latex backings.

With the ability to make tiled, hardwood or marble flooring feel cozy, rectangular red rugs deliver function and flair to kitchen spaces. Durable, easy to clean synthetics stand up to the messy reality of cooking. Regular maintenance keeps these hardworking rugs looking fresh for years of daily use. Place red area rugs near prep areas, sinks, islands and tables to define zones while shielding floors. A quality red area rug pulls any classic or modern kitchen together into one, welcoming gathering place.