The term runner rug is used to describe a rug that is intended to occupy narrow, high traffic areas of a house. They are very functional in that they both protect flooring, like hardwood or tile, as well as add to the home’s décor. Rug runners are not simply long thin pieces of carpet laid down to protect a floor. They are area rugs in their own right with several different styles available to home decorators. The typical areas of a home where these rugs are most used are hallways and staircases. However, the use of rug runners is by no means limited to these spaces. By careful and clever use of these narrow rugs, a decorator can change the entire ambiance of a room, taking it from stark and cold, to warm and bright. Listed below is a list the more common rug runners you’re likely to find in the marketplace.
Area Runner Rugs
This type of runner is a shorter version of the traditional runner rugs used on stair and in halls. They’re main use is as accent pieces to bring texture and color to a room’s décor. They are, oftentimes, used to cover up and flaws or stains that can’t be readily removed and are perfectly suited for this function. These rugs can be known simply as area rugs or accent rugs. They may be known as runners because they will match the width of the runner rug that you will expect to see running down a hall.
Wool Runner Rugs
Quality area rugs, runner included, have been traditionally made from wool. Wool has been the natural fiber of choice in rug crafting for centuries. Most people enjoy the pleasurable feel of wool under their feet. Placing a wool runner rug at your entry way is the kind of greeting many visitors would enjoy. Although wool will give you a luxuriant feeling for those who walk on it, if it is allowed to become grubby then the effect you were hoping for will be lost. This is really the only problem when it comes to wool as rug material. It is difficult to clean should spills occur. For this reason, avoid areas of the home where the chance of spills is heightened, such bathrooms and kitchens.
Stair Runner Rugs
Most runner rugs are used on staircases. This is ideal for wooden stairs to provide extra traction and protect the beautiful finish. In multi-storied homes, the stairs receive some of the highest traffic so runner rug can provide a great service. Stair runners come in dizzying array of colors and designs so finding one to fit your home should be no problem. In most cases, you’ll have to have your rug made to order to ensure it covers every step and, possibly, professionally secured to the staircase.
Kitchen Runner Rugs
For some kitchen it may be necessary to locate short area runner rugs, particularly if you are trying to hide any accidental spills. In front of the kitchen sink is usually the best place for these, especially if you spend much time washing dishes. You’ll find this will help you legs to not become so tired. Make sure to choose a rug that will go well with your kitchen cabinetry and make a fashionable statement.
Bamboo Runner Rugs
This is a more casual style of rug that is hard-wearing and comes in a fabulous range of shades of brown. Because it’s made from bamboo it adds a wood-toned texture to the room and its fabric edges can used to either contrast or blend with the bamboo. Very few rugs can beat a bamboo rug when it comes to protecting the floor.
Hallway Runner Rugs
Hallways are the most common places runners rugs are used, along with stairs. They are very long, narrow rugs that are laid down the entire length of the hall. They can be an important decorating accessory by helping to tie together different décor in different rooms. As with all area rugs, they can also help to give a good first impression to any visitors. The first impression is always seen as a big part of the overall opinion and if that first impression is a beautiful, luxurious hallway runner rug, then you have succeeded in providing a great welcome for your visitors.
While these styles are not the only ones available, they should give you a good general idea of runner rugs and how to decorate with them. I’d encourage you to do some more research to find that perfect rug. During your shopping, you’re likely to find a rug that’s not a runner that will work perfectly for you. Do some checking to see if there are any rug shops in your area that can duplicate the pattern or perhaps turn the rug into a runner for you. And above all else, have fun!