A round rug is the ideal complement for a round kitchen table. The symmetry of the shapes creates a pleasing cohesion in the space. But with so many sizes, textures, and designs of rugs available, how do you select the perfect rug for your kitchen?
Follow these guidelines to find a beautiful, functional area rug that frames your table and brings warmth and style to your kitchen decor.
Determine the Right Size Round Rug for Your Kitchen Table
When choosing a round rug, getting the size right is key. You want the rug to be large enough to define the table area without overwhelming the surrounding floor space.
A good rule of thumb is to measure the diameter of your table and add 18-24 inches. This allows enough rug surface around the edges of the table for tucking in chairs while keeping walkways open.
Also consider the size and layout of your kitchen. In a smaller or narrow galley kitchen, err on the smaller side for your rug. You don’t want to block doorways or create a cramped feeling.
Tips for Measuring Kitchen Table Rug Size
- Use a tape measure to determine the diameter of your round kitchen table.
- Add 18-24 inches to that diameter measurement to find ideal rug size.
- Account for at least 24 inches of clearance behind chairs.
- Size down if your kitchen has limited floor space.
Choose a Shape That Complements Your Table
Beyond size, the shape of your rug also deserves consideration. A round rug is the natural pairing for a round kitchen table. The two round shapes mirror each other beautifully. But don’t overlook creative alternatives:
– Rectangular or square rugs can provide an interesting contrast to a round table.
– Oval rugs blend nicely with round or oval tables.
– For a bold accent, layer an octagonal rug under a round table.
Whatever you choose, be sure the rug’s edges extend at least 18 inches beyond the outer edge of the table. This framing effect helps define the dining area.
Rug Shape Pairings for Round Kitchen Tables
- Round rug complements round table silhouette.
- Square or rectangular rug contrasts round shape.
- Oval rug softens edges of round table.
- Octagonal rug adds geometric interest.
Select a Rug Material Suited for the Kitchen
When selecting a material for your kitchen rug, prioritize durability and ease of care. Kitchens are high-traffic spaces prone to spills, drips, crumbs, and tracked-in dirt. Delicate silk or wool rugs would require constant cleaning and still show wear quickly.
Better options include synthetic fibers like polypropylene, nylon, and polyester or natural fibers such as seagrass, jute, and sisal. These materials resist stains, moisture, and everyday wear-and-tear in busy kitchens.
Also look for rugs made with some percentage of synthetic fibers for added durability. And check that the rug has a non-slip latex backing to prevent slides and slips on your kitchen floors.
Top Material Options for Kitchen Rugs
- Synthetic fibers: polypropylene, nylon, polyester
- Natural fibers: sisal, seagrass, jute
- Synthetic/natural fiber blends
- Non-slip latex backing
Pick the Right Texture and Pile Height
A kitchen rug should be easy to clean and comfortable underfoot. This makes low pile rugs ideal choices. Their tight weaves prevent food particles from getting trapped in the fibers. Low piles are also easy to vacuum and won’t inhibit chair legs sliding across the rug surface.
Some softness can be added with a medium pile height up to 1/2 inch. But steer clear of plush, high pile rugs that quickly show dirt and impede chair movement.
Loop pile rugs like berber-style options also deserve consideration for kitchens. Their loops trap less dirt than cut piles, coming clean with just a vacuum. Flatwoven rugs are another texture to consider – their smooth, level surface offers a no-fuss foundation by your kitchen table.
Ideal Pile Heights and Textures for Kitchen Rugs
- Low pile: Tightly woven, easiest to clean
- Medium pile: Adds softness underfoot
- Loop pile: Traps less dirt than cut pile
- Flatwoven: Smooth, level texture
Complement Your Style with Color and Pattern
When choosing a color and pattern for your kitchen rug, let your style be your guide. But also keep the rug’s function in mind. Bold graphics or dark hues might not be the best choice for a high-traffic dining area where stains can quickly accumulate.
Simple patterns and lighter neutral tones help conceal everyday wear. Or pick up an accent color from your kitchen design in a subtle print or border detail. This allows the rug to enhance your decor without competing.
A breezy beach cottage kitchen might suit a nubby jute rug or braided seagrass style with soft blue and white accents. For contemporary styling, solid gray-toned wool or graphicprinted polypropylene makes a smart pick.
Tips for Picking Color and Pattern
- Light, subtle patterns hide wear best.
- Incorporate accent colors from existing decor.
- Avoid dark or busy patterns in high-traffic areas.
- Let your kitchen style guide color and design.
Layer in Comfort with Rug Padding
Rug padding provides useful benefits under a kitchen area rug. It helps reduce slips and falls, cushions footsteps, and gives the rug extra durability.
Look for a natural fiber pad made of felt, rubber, or plant-based materials. Avoid plastic rug pads, which can stick to floors over time. Be sure to get a pad sized to fit your specific rug shape and dimensions.
Pad edges should stop short of the rug perimeter so they don’t peek out. And opt for a thin, dense pad no more than 1/4 inch thick. Anything spongy or thick impedes chair legs sliding smoothly across the floor.
Choosing Rug Pads for the Kitchen
- Natural materials like felt, rubber, plant fibers
- No thicker than 1/4 inch dense padding
- Same size and shape as selected rug
- Stops short of outer rug edges
Shop with Quality and Value in Mind
Kitchen rugs range widely in terms of price and quality. As with most home purchases, you get what you pay for. Higher price points offer thicker, denser constructions and finer quality materials that last longer.
Natural fibers like wool and silk sit at the higher end of the spectrum, along with hand-knotted or antique rugs. But these come with higher maintenance needs unsuited to the hazards of a kitchen environment.
In the middle range, wool and cotton-blend area rugs offer durability with some added softness underfoot. Or choose a synthetic fiber like polypropylene or polyester for an easy-clean, budget-friendly option.
Kitchen Rug Pricing Considerations
- Natural fibers top the price range.
- Blends balance cost with quality.
- Synthetics offer affordability and function.
- Weigh cost against longevity.
Care Tips to Maintain Your Round Kitchen Rug
With regular care and cleaning, a kitchen rug can maintain its good looks and keep floors spotless. Follow these tips to get the longest life from your round dining area rug:
– Vacuum frequently, at least once a week, to prevent dirt buildup. Pay special attention to edges and high-traffic areas.
– Blot spills immediately to prevent staining using a clean white cloth.
– Rotate your rug periodically to promote even wear from table edges and walkways.
– Professionally clean every year or two to revitalize colors and remove set-in stains.
– Check backing for wear and have rug re-backed if necessary to prevent slips.
Caring for Your Kitchen Rug
- Vacuum weekly.
- Blot spills quickly.
- Rotate periodically.
- Professionally clean every 1-2 years.
- Re-back rug if backing wears down.
With its symmetrical shape and framing effect, a round rug brings balance and definition to your kitchen dining space. The right size, color, and material work in harmony with your round table to create a cohesive, welcoming look.
So roll out a round rug with confidence knowing it’s a functionally sound and decoratively elegant choice for nourishing both the body and spirit in your kitchen.
