Blue Runner Rugs - The Secret To An Elegant Kitchen
Looking to add a touch of elegance and comfort to your kitchen? A beautiful blue runner rug may be just what you need. Gliding across a soft, colorful rug while cooking and cleaning can make all the difference in how your kitchen looks and feels.
Blue runner rugs not only provide plush cushioning underfoot, they instantly amplify the style of any kitchen. From deep ocean tones to pale sky blue, a splash of this classic color brings warmth and sophistication. Read on to learn why a blue runner rug is the design detail your kitchen can't live without.
Choosing a Blue Runner Rug for Your Kitchen
With so many sizes, textures, and shades of blue available, picking the perfect rug requires some consideration. Keep these factors in mind while shopping for your kitchen's ideal accent rug:
Things to Consider When Shopping for a Kitchen Runner Rug
Be sure to measure the length and width of your kitchen to determine the appropriate dimensions for your runner rug. Allow for a few extra inches of overhang on each side. Materials like tightly woven cotton or hardy wool are suitable for high-traffic areas. Seek out rugs with durable, stain-resistant fibers and non-slip backings. For easy care, machine washable cotton or polyester rugs are recommended.
Popular Styles of Blue Kitchen Runner Rugs
From simple patterns to bold geometric designs, blue kitchen rugs come in many lively styles such as:
- Solid blue hues like navy, cobalt, or powder blue
- Stripes in various widths running vertically or horizontally
- Chevron, Greek key, or Moroccan tile motifs
- Scattered blue florals against a neutral background
- Abstract watercolor splashes or swirls
Tips for Selecting the Perfect Blue Color for Your Kitchen
Choosing a rug in a blue shade that complements your existing décor is key. Factor in undertones in cabinetry and counters when deciding on a cool or warm blue. Soft powder blue adds a subtle punch of color. Vibrant navy makes a dramatic style statement.
Materials and Construction of Quality Kitchen Runner Rugs
Cotton Kitchen Runner Rugs
Valued for their softness and ability to provide insulation, cotton rugs work well in kitchens when tightly woven with a low pile. The natural fibers easily absorb sound and impact.
The downside is cotton stains easily. However, some are conveniently machine washable. Seek out cotton kitchen rugs with stain-resistant finishes.
Wool Kitchen Runner Rugs
Prized for durability, wool rugs come in various grades. Look for ones woven from finer wool with tighter twisted yarns that naturally resist stains. Dense and resilient, wool absorbs sound while providing comfort.
Wool rugs tend to be expensive but are a long-term investment if properly maintained. Most wool rugs need professional cleaning.
Synthetic Kitchen Runner Rugs
Rugs made of polyester, nylon, or polypropylene are valued for their stain resistance and colorfastness. These easy care synthetic fibers simply need an occasional vacuuming or machine washing.
Though not as plush as natural fibers, modern synthetics are quite soft. Some even mimic the look of wool with added durability.
Backings for Safety and Durability
Non-slip backings keep rugs firmly in place, crucial for high-traffic kitchens prone to spills. Natural rubber backing provides the best grip, along with PVC dots or latex applied to the rug's underside.
Caring for Your Blue Kitchen Rug
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
To preserve the beauty of a kitchen runner rug, vacuum 1-2 times per week to remove crumbs and dust. Spot clean food and beverage spills as soon as they occur with a damp rag. Allow the rug to air dry completely before walking on it.
Deep Cleaning a Washable Rug
For synthetic or cotton rugs, launder in the washing machine every few months or when heavily soiled. Use gentle cycles with cool water and mild detergent. Line dry or tumble dry on low heat. Excessive agitation can damage fibers.
Professionally Cleaning Wool and Delicate Rugs
Wool area rugs require professional steam cleaning every 1-2 years to revitalize fibers and remove embedded dirt. Find an established rug cleaning company that avoids harsh chemicals. Delicate silk or rayon rugs also need special care.
Designing with a Blue Runner Rug
Decorating Tips
A blue runner rug acts as a decorative anchor that ties your kitchen's color scheme together. Contrast it with warm wood cabinetry and sleek tile floors for visual interest. Or match complementary blue and white hues for a timeless coastal kitchen aesthetic.
Placement Ideas
Use a runner to define walkways and high-traffic zones like in front of the sink, stove or fridge. Size it to fit your entire primary work area for ergonomic support. Extend smaller rugs outward from kitchen islands or peninsulas.
Rug Size Suggestions for Kitchen Spaces
For a small galley kitchen, a 2' x 4' rug suffices. A medium kitchen can accommodate a 3' x 5' rug. For larger open kitchen/dining layouts, a 4' x 6' or 5' x 8' rug makes a statement.
Be sure to leave adequate clearance around furniture and appliances when sizing your rug.
With the right blue runner rug, you can utterly transform the look, feel and function of your kitchen. Take time to find the perfect size, material, color and design to suit your space. Place it thoughtfully to define zones. A quality kitchen rug not only looks fantastic, but feels fabulous underfoot.
Bringing home a beautiful blue accent rug is an easy upgrade that yields dramatic results. With just this simple decorative touch, your kitchen immediately gains elegance and style.