What Kind of Rugs to Get for a Kitchen

Sizing and Colors

• It is not necessary to cover an entire room with area rugs, even on hard floors. In many instances, floors add to the beauty of a room, such as in the case of well-crafted tile or hardwood. For kitchens, try choosing multiple, small rugs ranging in size from 3' x 5' to 4' x 6' and in the room's existing color scheme. Spend an afternoon placing them in different spots to see what arrangement you prefer and what makes the most practical sense. Always leave at least one foot between a wall and a rug, according to experts from California State University Long Beach, and think of where you are most likely to stand barefoot. For instance, if you sleepily make your way to the coffee pot first thing in the morning, place a rug before that appliance.

Cost

• While hand-knotted Persians, Orientals and Flokatis might make you drool, they are not necessarily the most practical choice for a kitchen. Kitchens are the locations of food preparation, eating, dish washing and, often, crafts. Especially if children are involved, don't necessarily expect the rug to last a lifetime. Choose a budget-friendly area rug you won't be heartbroken over if that spaghetti sauce stain from your 5year-old never comes out.

Natural Grass Rugs

• Natural grass rugs such as sisal and sea grass are durable options ideal for kitchens. They are not only made from renewable resources, but also much less expensive than Persians or Orientals. Sea grass rugs are relatively nonabsorbent, allergy free and dirt and stain resistant. Sisal rugs are antistatic, fire-resistant and insulating. Sisal will absorb water, however, so sisal rugs are best placed away from sinks.

Bamboo Rugs

• Bamboo rugs are another natural, durable rug made from renewable resources. Bamboo is the fastest growing woody plant in the world, with some species growing up to 4 feet a day. Instead of woven -- as most other rugs, including grass rugs -- bamboo strips are laid side by side and then held together with webbed edging. The result is a smooth, durable, easy to clean, water-resistant mat.