Stair Runner Styles

Plastic Runners

• If you want to protect your stairs without significantly distracting from the staircase, choose a plastic or vinyl stair runner an an option for your home. Plastic stair runners are inexpensive, durable and easier to clean than fabric stair runners. Plastic stair runners are typically installed over carpeted stairs to keep the carpet from dirt or damage; plastic stair runners are less common on hardwood stairs because the plastic requires more grip to avoid slipping. Though plastic stair runners are inexpensive and low-maintenance, they have a tendency to move even if they are secured. Shifting stair runners are not only a nuisance, but they also present a tripped hazard, especially if you live with children or elderly family members.

Stair Treads

• Stair treads are an alternative to single section stair runners which cover both the tread of the stair and the riser, or back, of the stair. Instead, stair treads are single pieces of material, vinyl or rubber that adhere to only the stair tread to protect the stairs without dominating the staircase. Stair treads are available in a wide range of colors and materials to suit your style and budget; solid color fabric stair treads in darker colors hide dirt while rubber or vinyl treads are easy to clean and unobtrusive options. If possible, choose a tread in the same color or pattern of a carpet in a nearby room to create a cohesive design.

Braided Runners

• Braided stair runners are traditional, rustic options for stair runners that add warmth and color to a home while protecting staircases. Braided stair runners are made from scraps of felt, cotton, nylon or wool that are knotted into a pattern and secured to a backing material. Braided rugs are sturdy and thick options for stair runners and come in classic colonial designs and colors like navy, red, cream and olive green. Choose a braided stair runner if your home is decorated in a rustic or country style. Because of the structure of the rug, they can be difficult to vacuum and keep free of dirt, particularly if your runner covers the riser of the stair as well as the tread.

Woven Runners

• Woven stair runners are sometimes called rag runners. Woven runners are constructed on looms and usually made from natural wool though they may also be constructed from synthetic fibers. Woven runners tend to be thinner than braided runners or the more traditional Oriental rug runners. The runners are woven into a variety of patterns and colors; even solid color woven runners might include a weaving pattern that adds subtle texture to the design. Woven runners are ideal for contemporary homes because you can select an understated design for minimalist homes or a bold, striped design in bright colors for a dramatic addition to your interior design.