Rosaline was frustrated. She had worked hard to turn her old, neglected kitchen into an inviting space, but there was something missing. She had always dreamed of having a plush, colorful rug for the hardwood floor – something to enliven the room and make it feel like home.
At least, that’s what Rosaline thought until her brother entered the room.
“Rugs?” he scoffed. “You don’t need those. You might as well buy a bed of nails.”
Rosaline rolled her eyes and tried to persuade him that she would be sensible with her purchase.
“Besides,” he continued, “I heard that rugs for hardwood floors only exist in fairytales. It’s an old wives’ tale.”
Rosaline sighed and chose to ignore him. The next day she searched online and to her surprise, she found what she was looking for. A colorful, oriental-style rug that fit her kitchen perfectly. She was overjoyed and quickly placed her order.
Unfortunately, when the delivery arrived, things did not go as planned.
The rug looked nothing like Rosaline had imagined. The colors were wrong and the fabric was rough and prickly. It was nothing like the pictures she had seen.
There was but one explanation. The rugs for hardwood floors her brother had mentioned really did exist. The rug Rosaline had ordered was one of them.
Despite her disappointment, Rosaline chose to view it as an unexpected blessing. She was happy to have found a rug so quickly and the prickly texture was perfect for keeping off all the crumbs that fell from the baking she was so fond of.
Rosaline smiled and placed the rug in her kitchen. No matter how it looked, it gave the room a comforting warmth and made it feel like a proper home.
The top 10 best kitchen rugs for hardwood floors that are available on Amazon are carefully selected in this article considering different factors like material used, size, design, market popularity, durability, and price range.
Sturdy, durable, and easy to clean, hardwood floors have long been hailed as the decor that adds instant elegance and class to a room. It would thus come as no surprise to you that by decking out your kitchen, or any room of the house, in hardwood, you’re actually increasing your home’s value! Don’t believe us? Check out this study conducted by the National Association of Realtors.
Comfortable and convenient, hardwood floors are in vogue but are they easy to decorate? Furthermore, would they be able to beautify your kitchen independently? Maybe not. However, by draping them with the right rug, or rugs, you can create a noticeable theme across this hub of yours. Moreover, these rugs would also protect the wood from wear, tear, and water damage.
That said; let us guide you through the ten best kitchen rugs for hardwood floors that are sure to breathe a new life into your kitchen. These rugs that come in all kinds of shapes, colors, and sizes are perfect for your perfect hardwood floors. So, without ado, let’s dive right into it!
Why Do We Need Rugs for Kitchens with Hardwood Floors?
Whether it is with an area rug, a runner, or a small mat, your prized hardwood floors deserve a second layer due to several factors. Allow us to guide you through just some of them:
They Protect the Floor & Offer Stability
The best kitchen rugs, like the ones mentioned in our article, utilize their ample cushioning and padding to protect this high-traffic area of your home by reducing wear and tear. These kitchen rugs would also prevent scratches and fading of the hardwood floors. Furthermore, the ones with good water absorption would also protect it from water damage.
Aside from damaging your hardwood floor, water may also pose a threat to your children and pets running around the house. This is where a non-slip rug comes in to play. Its rubber or latex backing helps it hug the floor tightly while simultaneously providing traction to the top. Step on it and no matter how slippery your floor is, the mat won’t skid.
They Brighten & Beautify the Room
Dark furniture in your kitchen matched with hardwood can reduce the overall brightness of the room. Add a dash of vibrant colors by adding a bright rug that either matches or creates a positive contrast with the overall layout and style. These mats come in extraordinary pallets of dazzling colors which gives you the freedom to transform and glamorize this hub of yours.
They Offer Comfort & Reduce Noise
You are sure to agree when we say that hardwood floors are not the most comfortable to walk on. However, with one of our rugs acting as a second layer for your floor, your feet would enjoy the comfort and opulence that they deserve.
Moreover, with their ample cushioning, these mats absorb the impact of the heavy footfall and reduce noise. Some even provide insulation and keep your hardwood kitchen floor warm.
Top 10 Rugs for Kitchens with Hardwood Floors Comparison Table
| Product | Size(s) | Color(s) | Material | Thickness | Shop Now |
| DII Contemporary Reversible Floor Rug | 2 x 3′ 2 x 6′ 4 x 6′ 8′ x 10′ 20 x 31.5″ 36″ Round, 48″ Round | Denim, Gray, Multi Color, Nautical Blue, Mustard, Taupe, Aqua, Mint, Cream and Olive Green | Recycled fabrics | 0.25″ | Check Latest Price |
| iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat | 17″ x 24″ 21″ x 34″ 24″ x 48″ 24″ x 72″ | N/A | Bamboo Wood | N/A | Check Latest Price |
| Ritz Accent Stain Resistant Kitchen Floor Rug | 18″ x 30″ 20″ x 36″ 20″ x 60″ Runner | Beige, Black, Blue, Chocolate Brown, Graphite, Olive Green, Red | Nylon | 0.4″ | Check Latest Price |
| Mohawk Home Rainbow Area Rug | 1′ 8″ x 2′ 10″ 1′ 8″ x 5′ 1′ 8″ x 6′ 2′ 6″ x 3′ 10″ 2′ x 5′ 2′ x 8′ 3′ 9″ x 5′ 4′ x 6′ 5′ x 8′ 6′ x 9′ 7′ 6″ x 10′ 7′ 6″ x 11′ 7′ 6″ x 7′ 6″ 10′ x 10′ 10′ x 14′ | Multi | Nylon | 0.4″ | Check Latest Price |
| Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Doormat (Editors Choice) | 2′ x 3′ 3′ x 5′ 8.5″ x 30″ 22″ x 60″ | Bluestone, Charcoal, Dark Brown, Evergreen, Khaki/Camel and Medium Grey | PET Fiber | 0.25″ | Check Latest Price |
| Color&Geometry Indoor Doormat | 20″ x 32″ 24″ x 36″ 32″ x 40″ 32″ x 48″ 35″ x 59″ | Grey and Blue | Microfiber | 0.25″ | Check Latest Price |
| Simple Being Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat | 17.5″x 32″ | Black & Burgundy, Blue & Tan, Bohemian, Brown Geometric, Green Geometric, Grey Geometric, Marble & Pebbles, Multi Geometric | PVC | 0.5″ | Check Latest Price |
| GelPro Anti-Fatigue Nonslip Thick Hard Floor Utility Mat | 20″ x 72″ | Leather Grain Black, Leather Grain Cranberry, Leather Grain Navy, Leather Grain Truffle, Vintage Leather Rustic Brown | Polyurethane | 0.5″ | Check Latest Price |
| Delxo Kitchen Rug Sets | 17″ x 48″ 17″ x 24″ | Black, Brown, Grey, Navy | Chenille | 1″ | Check Latest Price |
| Imprint Cumulus9 Chevron Kitchen Mat | 20″ x 36″ | Espresso, Steel, Grey, Goose and Dove | Synthetic | 5/8″ | Check Latest Price |
The 10 Best Kitchen Rugs for Hardwood Floors
There are many kitchen rugs that deliver exceptional functionality while being easy on the eyes. They all have their pros and cons; however, these are the ones that we believe boast pros that outweigh their respective cons. Consequently, they deserve the top spots.
1. DII Contemporary Reversible Floor Rug
Let’s start off with a bang. The DII Contemporary Reversible Floor Rug is handcrafted with recycled fabrics only, so points for environment friendliness. Its premium construction ensures durability and prevents edges from fraying after repeated washes. Throw in any volume of foot traffic at it, and the DII Contemporary Reversible Floor Rug is sure to take it.
As the name implies, the rug is reversible and woven such that either side may be exposed. This further adds longevity to it. The handcrafted composition also means that no two of these rugs would be the same, so points for uniqueness and complexity. It has specifically been constructed for all floor types including hardwood floors and will grip them well.
Boasting intricate and modish designs, this chic and stylish rug is perfect for use in kitchens with rustic or minimalistic decor. The mats come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The rectangular variant comes in five sizes: 2 feet by 3 feet, 2 feet by 6 feet, 4 feet by 6 feet, 8 feet by 10 feet, and 20 inches by 31.5 inches. You can buy the circular-shaped design in either 36 inches or 48 inches radii. There is also a size guide available on the product page to help find the perfect size for you.
The kitchen mat comes in ten unique and vibrant colors that are sure to catch eyes: Denim, Gray, Multi-Color, Nautical Blue, Mustard, Taupe, Aqua, Mint, Cream, and Olive Green. The manufacturer; however, recommends adding a rug liner between your kitchen floor and the mat to prevent the color from transferring onto your floors.
Pros
- Reversible
- Good value for money
- Available in a variety of beautiful prints, colors, sizes, and shapes
- Machine Washable on gentle and line dry.
Cons
- Requires a rug liner as it bleeds a little when wet
- Sizes may vary slightly as they are handmade
2. iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat
Long gone are the days when bamboo floor mats were considered too bland to match with most decors due to their few tonal shades. Nowadays, bamboo mats are highly sought after due to their durability, versatility, and elegance and the iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat is sure to breathe new life into your kitchen.
The rug’s surface is scratch proof while the non-skid underside protects your hardwood floors from damage and provides an anti-slip element. Consequently, you can bid farewell to slip and tripping accidents because this mat is sure to stand its ground. It is also very easy to clean, just wipe it down with warm water and mild detergent and it will look as good as new.
It has two standard size options; 17 inches by 24 inches and 21 inches by 34 inches, and two runner options; 24 inches by 48 inches and 24 inches by 72 inches.
Pros
- Nonskid backing
- Easy to clean
- Extremely sturdy and durable
Cons
- No color options due to the nature of the material
- Doesn’t absorb water that well
3. Ritz Accent Stain Resistant Kitchen Floor Rug
The Ritz Accent Stain Resistant Kitchen Floor is the resultant of a kitchen textile wholesaler, John Ritzenthaler Company, partnering with a cookware manufacturer, All-Clad Metalcrafters LLC. With the backing of not one but two well-reputed manufacturers, comes the guarantee of exquisite craftsmanship and premium functionality.
The minimalistic nylon made kitchen mat has a textured and super-soft surface. This stain and the fade-resistant surface is easy to clean and comes with premium over-lock stitching that ensures longevity even after repeated washes. The rug also boasts a non-skid latex backing that helps it grip your hardwood floors and prevents slipping and sliding.
The mat comes with a variety of color options that either go with the theme of your kitchen or create stunning contrast. The mat comes in Beige, Black, Blue, Chocolate Brown, Graphite, Olive Green, and Red colors. There are also many fit options with the U-shaped variant being available in 18 inches by 30 inches and 20 inches by 36 inches models, and the 20 inches by 60 inches runner variant.
Pros
- Nonskid backing
- A minimal look with many color options
- Easy to clean
- Fairly inexpensive
Cons
- Might be considered a little too thin
4. Mohawk Home Rainbow Area Rug
Looking for a kitchen rug that provides the best of both form and functionality? Well, look no further than the Mohawk Home Rainbow Area Rug.
Its multicolor nylon surface is sprayed with 12 colors to create 72 color blends. A canvas of myriad colors, this mat is sure to liven up your kitchen space.
The design creates a splendid contrast with minimalistic interiors that call for a splash of vibrancy while harmoniously blending with colorful decors.
Known for its durability and resiliency against matting and crushing caused by every day wear-and-tear, nylon rugs such as the Mohawk Home Rainbow Area Rug are the most premium kitchen rugs money can buy.
Chic and elegant, this rug will also protect your hardwood floors from water damage with its non-skid latex backing. The premium construction also ensures durability and immunity to fraying. The stain and fade-resistant surface is also easy to clean and vacuum, and is machine washable.
This super soft and plush kitchen mat is available in 15 different sizes: 1 foot 8 inches by 2 feet 10 inches, 1 foot 8 inches by 5 feet, 1 foot 8 inches by 6 feet, 2 feet 6 inches by 3 feet 10 inches, 2 feet by 5 feet, 2 feet by 8 feet, 3 feet 9 inches by 5 feet, 4 feet by 6 feet, 5 feet by 8 feet, 6 feet by 9 feet, 7 feet 6 inches by 10 feet, 7 feet 6 inches by 11 feet, 7 feet 6 inches by 7 feet 6 inches, 10 feet by 10 feet and 10 feet by 14 feet. Rest assured, you are sure to find the perfect option for your kitchen!
Pros
- Nonskid backing
- Machine washable
- Perfect for heavy traffic areas
- 15 size options
- Perfect value for money
Cons
- Edges stay curled for a little while after unpacking
5. Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Doormat (Editors Choice)
Have you ever wondered what the criteria of judging a kitchen mat’s water absorption capabilities should be?
Well..
if there existed a spectrum for this capability, the Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Doormat would be at the extreme right of it. This commercial-grade kitchen rug is composed of PET Fiber and can hold an astonishing 1.5 gallons of water per square yard!
The surface has been reinforced with rubber which enables it to hold its shape no matter how much foot traffic you throw at it.
Up to 94% of this surface has been made from recycled plastic materials, while the non-skid SBR rubber backing is made with 20% recycled rubber; this rug definitely wins points for environment friendliness.
Easy to clean and resistant to dust, this kitchen mat will not rot or disintegrate to extreme elements.
The Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Doormat features intricate ridged geometric and floral patterns and comes in six beautiful colors: Bluestone, Charcoal, Dark Brown, Evergreen, Khaki/Camel, and Medium Grey. Each of these colors can be bought in four variations; the Standard Doormat measuring 2 Feet by 3 Feet, the Oversized Doormat measuring 3 Feet by 5 Feet, the Stair Treads measuring 8.5 Inches by 30 Inches, and the runner measuring 22 Inches by 60 Inches
Pros
- Nonskid backing
- Can be vacuumed and easy to clean
- Amazing water retention capabilities
- Environmentally friendly
- Low profile look
- Many sizes and color options
Cons
- A little expensive but worth it
6. Color&Geometry Indoor Doormat
The Color&Geometry Indoor Doormat is a beautiful doormat that is well-loved by those with hardwood floor kitchens because of its versatility and durability. Although, as the name suggests, it is made for entrances; its super-absorbent stain-resistant surface means you can sprawl it near your range or sink and keep your hardwood floors clean and tidy.
The kitchen rug is machine washable and provides anti-slip due to its non-skid TPR backing. Consequently, you can bid slipping and tripping incidents goodbye while protecting your kitchen floors from water damage and scratches.
The Color&Geometry Indoor Doormat can be bought in two vibrant colors; grey and blue, and five sizes; 20 inches by 32 inches, 24 inches by 36 inches, 32 inches by 40 inches, 32 inches by 48 inches, and 35 inches by 59 inches.
Pros
- Super absorbent
- Softer than it looks
- Available in a variety of colors and sizes
- Machine Washable
Cons
- A little difficult to vacuum
- Might be considered a little too thin and light
7. Simple Being Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat
The Simple Being Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat has everything you can ask for in a kitchen rug. It is durable, comfortable, versatile, and easy to clean.
Whether you’re a professional chef who spends hours in the kitchen each day or you’re simply looking for ample support, the Simple Being Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Floor Mat cradles and cushions your feet with its 0.5-inch high-grade premium non-toxic PVC material. This anti-fatigue support helps relieve pressure off of your feet and knees and is phthalate-free, latex-free, and odor-free.
Your kitchen might be a high traffic area, but it is no match for this stain-resistant rug that is constructed with premium strength materials to ensure longevity even with extended and heavy use. The surface is also reversible, this rug is also reversible, and so you can totally just flip it over when one side gets stained or if you simply got bored of the color.
The kitchen mat, like many others in the list, boasts a non-slip bottom which protects your hardwood floors from moisture and will stay in place for added safety and stability.
This 17.5 inches by 32 inches kitchen mat comes in eight colors; Black/Burgundy, Blue/Tan, Bohemian, Brown Geometric, Green Geometric, Grey Geometric, Marble/Pebbles, and Multi Geometric.
Pros
- Reversible
- Super comfortable to stand on
- Available in a variety of beautiful prints and colors
- Anti-fatigue surface and anti-slip bottom
Cons
- Edges curl a little
- No size options
8. GelPro Anti-Fatigue Nonslip Thick Hard Floor Utility Mat
When it comes to GelPro, you can buy with total confidence due to their exceptional customer service and craftsmanship. Minimalistic and versatile, the GelPro Anti-Fatigue Nonslip Thick Hard Floor Utility Mats are perfect for any hard flooring where you need maximum comfort and safe traction. Its tactile non-skid backing will stay put whether you’re standing for extended periods or walking back and forth getting daily chores done.
The 1/2 inch thick polyurethane ergo-Foam composition will prevent this runner rug from bottoming out and will reduce fatigue while standing, allowing you to feel comfortable and taking the stress off your joints. The textured top surface of the mat is stain and water-resistant, vinyl and phthalate-free, and is easy to clean.
The 20 inches by 72 inches mat comes in 5 color options: Leather Grain Black, Leather Grain Cranberry, Leather Grain Navy, Leather Grain Truffle, and Vintage Leather Rustic Brown.
Pros
- Beautiful color options
- Anti-fatigue top and anti-slip bottom
- Easy to clean
- Can be trimmed to liking
Cons
- No size options
9. Delxo Kitchen Rug Sets
Make a bold statement with this complementing kitchen rug set by Delxo. The chenille composition gives these rugs a super-absorbent surface that helps contain messes created by water and oil spills and protects your precious hardwood floors from moisture and water damage.
The soft to touch surface is also very plush and will also keep your feet warm. The durable materials and premium construction ensure that the rug will not deteriorate, flatten out, or fall apart with use. This machine-washable rug set also boasts a TPR backing which provides an anti-slip element.
The rug set includes a standard size kitchen mat measuring 17 inches by 24 inches, and a runner measuring 17 inches by 48 inches. You can buy this set in Black, Brown, Grey, and Navy color schemes. If you have a kitchen with white decor, we recommend contrasting those white cabinets with the navy color for a splendid end result.
Pros
- Super soft and plush
- Premium TPR backing
- Easy to clean
- Absorbs lots of water
Cons
- Might be considered a little too small
- No size options
10. Imprint Cumulus9 Chevron Kitchen Mat
Are you tired of your kitchen rug’s edges curling all the time? Well, we have good news for you! The thick stay-flat memory foam in Imprint Cumulus9 Chevron Kitchen Mats ensures flat edges and gives it a plush and super soft feel.
The surface is made up of non-toxic and phthalate-free synthetic fibers that are durable and resistant to fade and stains. It is also anti-microbial and easy to clean. The rug also boasts a non-slip bottom that has been tested and certified by the National Floor Safety Institute.
The anti-fatigue rug comes in a single size option of 20 inches by 36 inches and Espresso, Steel, Grey, Goose, and Dove colors.
Pros
- Super soft and plush
- Anti-slip bottom and anti-fatigue surface
- Easy to clean
Cons
- A little expensive
- No size options
Buying Guide
Now that you understand the importance of rugs for kitchens with hardwood floors, let us ease your buying experience. This experience might be hectic and stress-inducing for some, however by the time you’re done reading our buyer’s guide; you would know all about these rugs and what to look for when in the market. With that, let us take this stress away from you and guide you through this process!
The Rug’s Backing
One of the most important things that you as a hardwood floor owner would be looking at would be the rug’s underside composition. Broadly, there are two types of backing found in kitchen rugs; woven and latex. Woven backing provides healthy airflow to your floor, without which your hardwood floors could become discolored. Latex or rubber backing, on the other hand, provide an anti-slip element- a strong grip that keeps the rug steady and prevents slipping and skidding.
The Rug’s Size & Kind
There are many different types of kitchen rugs for you to choose from for your hardwood flooring, the most common ones being kitchen rugs, area rugs, floor runners, and anti-fatigue mats.
Kitchen rugs are regular sized mats usually coming in a rectangular, circle, or oval shapes. Water absorbent and beautiful, these rugs may be placed under the sink.
Area
Rugs – as the name suggests – are generally wider and longer as they are designed to cover bigger areas than regular mats. Boasting intricate patterns and weaved with the most durable fibers, these rugs may be placed under the dining table of your kitchen.
Floor runners, or long mats, are long and narrow; perfect for kitchen hallways. They are also very absorbent making them great for hardwood floors.
Last but not least, anti-fatigue kitchen mats are widely used by chefs and home cooks alike to provide support for their feet and ensure extra safety on slippery floors such as hardwood due to their anti-slip and no-curl properties.
The Rug’s Aesthetic
Go for minimalistic rugs such as those providing anti-fatigue or better yet, add a dash of color to your kitchen with mats that boast bold patterns and colors. Step foot into the market and you will find that there are endless design and color options available in the market. For more about rugs that provide the best of both worlds check out our top products category in this article!
The Rug’s Cleaning
We have mentioned kitchen rugs that are easy to clean (spot cleaning, machine washing, etc.). Why? You might ask. Let us explain. Easy cleaning would mean frequent professional cleaning would not be required which would save cost. This is doubly important
If you have pets or children, in which case there are likely to be more spillages and accidents.
It is also best to look out for kitchen mats that have extra features such as water or moisture resistance. If you would like to minimize the exposure of your precious floors to moisture, you would be better off purchasing such rugs. This way they will not be prone to stains, and will thus be stain and odor-free.
Why Buy These Rugs for Kitchens With Hardwood Floors?
Meticulously researched and tested, these kitchen rugs provide the best of both form and functionality. We are in no way implying that these products do not have a few pros and cons. However, we looked at every aspect of a kitchen rug and these 10 products were the ones that aced at the most.
With each product review, we have also attached links to its Amazon page. We recommend that you utilize their secure and hassle-free online services.
FAQs Regarding Rugs for Kitchens With Hardwood Floors
1) What kinds of rugs are safe for hardwood floors?
a) Wool blendsu003cbru003eb) Natural fibers such as coir, jute, or seagrassu003cbru003ec) Cotton blendsu003cbru003ed) Synthetic fibersu003cbru003eu003cbru003eWhichever fabric you go for, make sure to avoid rugs with synthetic or plastic backing as they may scratch your hardwood floors. Always go for either woven or latex backing like the ones mentioned in the article.
2) Are rubber backed rugs bad for hardwood floors?
Some rubber-backed rugs may damage your hardwood floors. The chemicals can leave permanent marks on the floor or even discolor the wood. If you are going for a rubber backed rug, make sure that the manufacturer has labeled it as safe for hardwood floors. To know more about these rugs, check out the article above!
3) Should I put a rug on my hardwood floor?
Hardwood floors are elegant and voguish; however, they may not be able to pull your kitchen together solely. By matching them with monochromatic rugs or contrasting with bright and vibrant colors, you are sure to breathe a new life into your kitchen.
4) How do you choose a kitchen rug for hardwood floors?
Look for rugs that have either latex or woven bottoms, easy to clean and vacuum, and are beautifully patterned. For more information, check out the buyer’s guide in the above article!
A rug can make or break a room and so we understand that you would want to make this big decision on your own merits. If, however, you would allow us to share a humble recommendation; we would recommend purchasing the Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Doormat. This rug is truly the best of both worlds, delivering exceptional functionality and available in a variety of colors and sizes.
With that, we would like to conclude this article. We hope that all of your queries regarding rugs for kitchens with hardwood floors have been answered. Happy Shopping!