Buying a new kitchen rug or mat for your hardwood floor but can’t decide what to get? Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be stressful. I know it can be challenging especially if you’re like me who takes these things seriously.
Ages ago, I’ve purchased rugs that looked pretty but I probably tripped on like a hundred times, floor runners that left a sticky mess on my hardwood floor, as well as kitchen mats that are a serious pain to clean that I was tempted to just throw them out – and that’s why I decided to write this, to help those who are having the same dilemma as I had before.
In a Hurry? Here Are Our Top 3 Recommendations:
1. Kangaroo Original Standing Mat Kitchen Rug
2. Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Area Rug
3. iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat
There are currently a variety of fresh, creative designs to choose from. You can select from a wide range of various mat types, from basic decorative floor mats to functional anti-fatigue mats. The beauty and luster of your finely finished hardwood flooring will be well protected by these mats.
At the same time, your feet, legs, and back will benefit from the soft, luxurious cushioned effects of walking and standing on these mats while in your kitchen preparing meals.
Best Kitchen Mats For Hardwood Floors: Our Top Picks
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Choosing The Perfect Kitchen Mat for Your Hardwood Floor
Type & Size
There are different types of kitchen mat that you can use for your hardwood flooring, the most common ones are kitchen rugs, area rugs, floor runners, and anti-fatigue mats. Kitchen rugs, area rugs and floor runners are almost the same except for their size and shape, kitchen rugs are regular sized mats, area rugs – as the name suggests – are generally wider and longer as they are designed to cover bigger area coverage than regular rugs, while floor runners are usually longer and a little narrower.
They are all very absorbent making them great for hardwood floors although they may provide little to no support as they usually don’t have cushions. On the other hand, anti-fatigue kitchen mats are widely used by chefs and home cooks alike to provide support to its user and ensure extra safety on slippery floors like hardwood and marble due to their anti-slip and no-curl properties.
Design
There are endless design options for mats or rugs you can use for your kitchen. Nowadays, it’s easier to get the best of both worlds, you can get a mat that is the right size and type you need but still have the design that matches your kitchen’s aesthetic.
Of course, there’s a wider array of design and size options for area rugs or kitchen rugs in general so if you need a mat for aesthetic purpose then this is your best shot. But if you prefer a more minimalist design then you can rely on anti-fatigue mats that usually have simpler design choices while having more color options.
Ease of Cleaning
You want a rug that offers hassle-free cleaning. Most of the rugs I have listed here are those that can be cleaned either just by wiping it down with warm water and mild soap or those that are machine-wash friendly.
It is also best to get kitchen mats that have extra features such as water or moisture resistant, that way they will not be prone to stains and also will not give off a foul odor, another thing to look out for is “shedding” some mats claim to be machine-friendly but will clog up your washers when the rug sheds, so make sure that the rug offers little to no shedding.
Our Top 10 Favorite Kitchen Mats for Hardwood Floors:
GelPro Classic Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat
These modern mats offer the luxury of standing on a smooth surface with an inner layer of specialized therapeutic gel. Muscles and joints throughout your back, legs and feet benefit from this soft, reinforced floor covering that lends revitalizing bodily support. At the same time, the smooth, lustrous wood of your kitchen flooring is well protected from damage or staining.
- 100% GEL FILLED COMFORT MAT: Forget about pain and discomfort caused by standing. This cushion mat for standing features a...
- CERTIFIED NON-SLIP SAFETY BOTTOM: The non-skid, anti-fatigue comfort flooring mat has been certified by the National Floor...
- EASY TO CLEAN, WATER RESISTANT SURFACE: Featuring a stain and water resistant surface, this kitchen mat is incomparably easy...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Their non-slip bottoms are approved and certified by the National Floor Safety Institute. These attractive mats also display a signature contoured elegance of design featuring smoothly reinforced, beveled edging.
These highly desirable mats are stain and moisture-resistant and are available in 16 different colors and patterns like Basketweave Black, Linen Khaki, and Quill Blue. It also comes in three different sizes to cater to your need, 20 x 36 inches, 20 x 48 inches, and a runner mat measuring 20 x 72 inches.
New Life by GelPro Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat
These Eco-supportive mats are made of a long-lasting, single-piece construction offering continuous shock absorption for bodily stress reduction. They never lose their bounce or resiliency. All materials are non-toxic and leach-proof and the mat surface is antimicrobial, also guarding against abrasion or puncturing. Resistant to staining, this non-slip mat design has safety-beveled, anti-curl edges to prevent trips and falls.
- Constructed with bio-foam: stop wasting your money on standing floor mats which are made of low-quality materials. This...
- Ergonomic foam padded design that relieves aching feet: forget about aching feet, sore legs and lower back pain and enjoy...
- Slip-resistant, certified safety bottom and beveled, reinforced edges: The NewLife professional grade Comfort kitchen and...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With the contents of super-resilient, deep-density polyurethane Bio-Foam®, they are biodegradable and environmentally safe. These mats have a remarkable memory for bounce-back and suspend body weight evenly to alleviate fatigue. It can also easily match your kitchen as it comes in eight colors with two different patterns and five size options, 20 x 32 inches, 20 x 48 inches, 20 x 72 inches, 24 x 36 inches and 36 x 60 inches for those who want to have more floor coverage.
Imprint Cumulus9 Chevron Mat
These vinyl mats support your spine, muscles, and joints to relieve fatigue while standing and can be customized to meet your needs. They also offer strong traction, protecting you and your family from slips and falls in the kitchen. These durable mats have a smooth vinyl surface that is resistant to punctures, stains, and mildew and an interior foam design for lasting comfort. The mat surface is also low-static to prevent spilled foods from sticking.
- Top Consumer Rated Comfort Mat — Up to 60% thicker than other mats!
- University tested and proven by the Center for Ergonomics to reduce overall fatigue and discomfort by up to 60%.
- Flat edges and stay-flat memory ensure Imprint Mats won’t curl like other mats
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
While providing a supportive, cushioned walking surface, they add beauty and style to your kitchen decor. These mats are available in three style series: Nantucket, Chevron, and Cobblestone, each series provide different color and size options with Nantucket having the widest variety at six colors and four sizes.
iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat
This Bamboo Floor Mat came from the innovative housewares manufacturer, InterDesign. With 40 years of experience in houseware design, this mat has been carefully made with consideration to both design and function. It has a natural bamboo design, guaranteed to complement any kitchen theme. The mat is water-resistant, perfect to put by the kitchen sink as it also has a non-skid backing. The non-slip underside is made with high-quality material that is guaranteed not to stain or leave a sticky substance to your hardwood kitchen floor.
- RENEWABLE BAMBOO RUNNER RUG: The iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat comes with a non-skid underside. It is ideal for use in...
- WATER-RESISTANT: Made of renewable bamboo with a water-resistant coating and fabric border, the bath rug runner is the ideal...
- FUNCTIONAL & STYLISH: Featuring a non-skid underside, the bath rug protects wood floors, carpeting, or tile floors from...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This bamboo mat is easy to clean, just wipe it down with warm water and mild detergent and it will look good as new. It has three size options, 21 x 34 inches, 24 x 48 inches, and a floor runner measuring 24 x 72 inches, so it will be easy to get one that has the perfect size for wherever you want to place it.
Chardin Home Diamond Rug
This beautiful Chardin Home Reversible Diamond Rug is well-loved by those with hardwood floor kitchen. Mostly put in front of the sink or stove, it is a must that a rug is easy to clean and maintain, the Chardin Rug delivers on that. This rug is reversible, you can totally just flip it over when one side gets stained or if you simply got bored of the color. It is also machine washable so you can just throw it in the washer if it gets dirty.
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The rugs are also safe for those with kids, pregnant moms or sensitive health conditions, there were no harmful dyes or chemicals used in making the product – it is intricately handwoven with 100% pure cotton. The floor rug measures 21 x 34 inches, just the right size for doorways, and in front of sinks and stovetops.
Turquoize Chenile Plush Kitchen Runner
For those who are looking for extra comfort for their kitchen, this rug can be a great purchase for you. Reviewers rave about how soft and fluffy this rug is, it will make you feel like stepping on clouds! The Turquoize Chenile Plush Kitchen Runner is also a great addition to your kitchen because it is made with microfiber, it can quickly absorb spills or oil, but no need to worry about staining the rug because it is machine washable and wear-resistant too.
- Super Soft and Fluffy: This bathroom rugs runner/kitchen rug is crafted from extra thick flush chenille material. Its unique...
- Fast Absorbent & Quick Dry: Turquoize's microfiber bath rugs can absorb the water quickly in minutes to keep your floors dry...
- Non-Slip Backing: This bathroom mat features a slip-resistant SBE/Hot melt spray on backing to effectively prevent shifting...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This kitchen runner even makes your kitchen a safer space since it has a high technology hot melt spray bottom, providing it with anti-skid properties. With this rug you get nine color options and three different sizes, 20 x 32 inches, 47 x 17 inches, 59 x 20 inches.
Kangaroo Original Standing Mat Kitchen Rug
Are you a home cook or a baking enthusiast? Then this mat is perfect for you. Made with ergonomically engineered high-grade foam, the Kangaroo Standing Mat has anti-fatigue properties that allows you to feel comfortable even when standing in your kitchen for long hours. It has advanced no-curl, beveled edges, which is important for thicker mats like these to avoid tripping over them.
- THICK AND SUPPORTIVE CUSHIONING: extra thick, three quarter inch foam mat is extremely comfortable and engineered to help...
- HELPS RELIEVE PRESSURE AND FATIGUE: high density foam construction provides superior ergonomic support to help keep you...
- WATERPROOF AND STAIN RESISTANT TOPSIDE: featuring a waterproof and stain resistant textured topside for quick and easy...
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One of the best things about it, the rug is non-toxic and Prop 65 compliant too. Another benefit with the Kangaroo Mat, you have FOURTEEN color options and SEVEN different sizes. It even comes in a half-circle and corner shape rug as well. The size options are: 24 x 17 inches, 32 x 20 inches, 39 x 20 inches, 48 x 20 inches and 70 x 24 inches, a half-circle rug measuring 32 inches by 20 inches and a corner rug measuring 46 inches x 30 inches x 30 inches
Sky Solutions Sky Mat
The Sky Solutions Sky Mat is for those looking for comfort in their kitchen but doesn’t want to break the bank. This floor mat is made with Skysoft’s very own Sky Core foam, designed with a durable center that pops right back when you get off but not too tough that it makes your sole sore after hours of standing on it. This is best for those suffering back or joint problems as the mat also helps with your posture by evenly distributing your weight so your spine doesn’t get stressed.
- EXPERIENCE ULTIMATE COMFORT - Our high-quality 3/4" thick high-density PU foam provides relief for your feet and absorbs the...
- NON SLIP BOTTOM - Equipped with a padded non slip bottom so that the standing mat stays in place both on hard and carpet...
- FOR PERSONAL AND COMMERCIAL USE - For the office as a standing desk mat, or for use in the kitchen, garage, or laundry room,...
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With its advanced beveled edges and non-slip backing, the product can be put anywhere in the kitchen, even in front of the sink and it will provide additional safety measures. This eco-friendly mat has three sizes: 20 x 32 inches, 20 x 39 inches, and a runner mat measuring 24 x 70 inches. It also gives you nine stunning color options that will definitely spruce up your kitchen décor.
And these last two items are area rugs that I think will add a little extra “vibe” to your kitchen:
Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Area Rug
Going after a mid-century, vintage, or classic vibe for your kitchen? Then the Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Area Rug is just what you need. It has 12 color varieties and get this, FIFTEEN SIZE OPTIONS! Whatever size of rug you need, they got it. From square rugs to the regular rectangular rugs to runner rugs for in front of your kitchen island or countertop. You can mix and match the color and size to create the perfect setting for your kitchen.
- Soft 0.25" (1/4") pile height. Made of 100% polypropylene and power loomed in Turkey. 100% jute backing is safe for all floor...
- French-inspired vintage traditional designs from Unique Loom's Sofia Collection enhance any room of the home. From the living...
- Available in all shapes, sizes, and colors, you'll find the right rug for you. A round or square rug for your dining room,...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
No need to worry about ruining its intricate worn-out look, because these rugs are waterproof, mold and mildew resistant, and stain-resistant too. It is made from high-quality jute that they don’t shed and you can just easily vacuum them regularly to maintain its cleanliness so this is great for high traffic areas in the home too.
Pyramid Home Décor Renzo Collection Area Rug
If you want to add some vibrant colors to your kitchen, then this is the perfect area rug for you. It has 4 different colors to choose from, all with an elegant, modern geometric theme – perfect for those with a modern contemporary aesthetic. The colors compliments well on hardwood flooring, making space look classier. These area rugs are made with 100% polypropylene pile fiber and are moisture and mildew resistant, the jute backing on the rugs also guarantees it will not be a slipping hazard in your home.
- SENSATIONAL QUALITY: High-quality 100% polypropylene pile fiber, known for its legendary durability, endurance, softness and...
- BEAUTIFUL CONSTRUCTION: Well made with a non-slip jute backing refined power-loomed construction allows for an intricate...
- EXCELLENT SIZE: A just-right 5'2" x 7'3" ft (62” x 87” inch) (160cm x 220cm) dimension with a Pile Height of 1/2" (0.5...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The intricately designed Pyramid Home Area Rug is made in Turkey where the famous Anatolian rugs are made so you know that these are made with great attention to detail, therefore guaranteeing its durability. They are available in four colors and three sizes: 2 x 5 feet, 5 x 7 feet, and 8 x 10 feet.
Our Top 3 Winners
Kangaroo Original Standing Mat Kitchen Rug
Standing on a hardwood floor for hours can be harmful to your spine and joints, so it’s best to get a cushioned mat like anti-fatigue mats. It helps support your weight so your body doesn’t take the toll.
- THICK AND SUPPORTIVE CUSHIONING: extra thick, three quarter inch foam mat is extremely comfortable and engineered to help...
- HELPS RELIEVE PRESSURE AND FATIGUE: high density foam construction provides superior ergonomic support to help keep you...
- WATERPROOF AND STAIN RESISTANT TOPSIDE: featuring a waterproof and stain resistant textured topside for quick and easy...
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Kangaroo’s anti-fatigue mat is ergonomically designed to do this for you, it is durable and has the perfect firmness. It can also match your kitchen’s décor easily as it has a lot of color and size options, even corner and half circle rugs which is very rare in this market.
Sofia Collection Traditional Vintage Area Rug
Probably the cheapest way to add comfort to your busy kitchen is to get an area rug. It covers a big amount of space and protects a bigger surface for your hardwood floor as well – the area rug from Sofia Collection does that and more, it looks really good and compliments hardwood floors well, they are also soft to touch so even if you walk barefoot back and forth your kitchen while prepping meals, you won’t get sore feet.
- Soft 0.25" (1/4") pile height. Made of 100% polypropylene and power loomed in Turkey. 100% jute backing is safe for all floor...
- French-inspired vintage traditional designs from Unique Loom's Sofia Collection enhance any room of the home. From the living...
- Available in all shapes, sizes, and colors, you'll find the right rug for you. A round or square rug for your dining room,...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
These will also be easier to maintain as they are moist and mildew resistant. It can easily blend in with the rest of your kitchen décor with its chic vintage vibe.
iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat
This is perfect for those who are into a traditional vibe, it is made of bamboo, so its durability is unquestionable. Reviews say that the mat works perfectly well with wet areas like in front of the tub or sink as it doesn’t slide around, and it looks good in hardwood floors too.
- RENEWABLE BAMBOO RUNNER RUG: The iDesign Formbu Bamboo Floor Mat comes with a non-skid underside. It is ideal for use in...
- WATER-RESISTANT: Made of renewable bamboo with a water-resistant coating and fabric border, the bath rug runner is the ideal...
- FUNCTIONAL & STYLISH: Featuring a non-skid underside, the bath rug protects wood floors, carpeting, or tile floors from...
Last update on 2024-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Also, since it is not made of cloth, it is so easy to clean, you can just wipe it down with warm water and mild soap. Reviewers love that it is not expensive and most have actually bought at least two different sizes to put in their baths and in front of their kitchen sink. Because of its natural look and color, it easily blends in with any shade of hardwood floor.
Tips for Maintaining and Cleaning Hardwood Floors
Keep it dry
Immediately wipe away spills from your wooden floors. Don’t let water or any liquid soak into the wood as it may cause damage to your floor later on. Remember that liquids are your floor’s worst enemy. If you are using rugs or mats that absorb liquids in general and they got wet from a spill or while you are doing the dishes, replace them with a dry one right away.
Avoid Scratches
The top coating of the floor can protect your floor from small scratches when it’s new but eventually when the top coating has faded, you need to be extra careful of scratching your hardwood floor. Avoid wearing outside footwear as it may have collected tiny stones or grit that can scratch the floor. Also, when moving furniture, make sure to lift them instead of just dragging them across your floor. It is best to use furniture pads on your dining table and chair’s feet to ensure that they will not scratch your floor’s finish.
Clean Regularly
It is best to sweep your floor every day to remove any dust or dirt collected throughout the day. You can also vacuum it on a bare floor setting on a weekly basis to maintain the shine. Do not use wet or steam mops as it can eventually damage your floor and remove its bright finish. After 3-5yrs of installation and you notice your hardwood floors have lost their shine and look worn out, have them retouched by applying a new layer of top coating.
Avoid Rubber or Latex Backed Rugs
These type of kitchen rugs or floor runners usually have a patterned base which eventually sticks onto the floor and somewhat etch said patterns on the wood. They also tend to accumulate moisture at the bottom of the rug which then damages the wood’s finish and discolor it. All the products on our list don’t have a rubber backing and are proven to be compatible with hardwood floors based on real reviews by those who purchased them.
What Type Of Rug Is Best For Kitchen And Hardwood Floors?
The best type of rug for kitchen and hardwood floors is wool. I started out trying to use cheaper rugs like jute and cotton. After some time (and some $$$ having to retouch the hardwood floor many times), I decided to get a proper kitchen mat. And that’s how I fell in love with wool rugs. They are not the cheapest, but they are well worth investing in.
Wool rugs are gentle on my hardwood floor, and on our feet too. They are soft and warm to touch. It’s comfortable to stand on while I wash the dishes or prepare meals. They stay in place and do not leave marks on the floor so I can move them around when needed. Wool is also invulnerable to stains and is easy to clean, making them even more perfect for my busy kitchen.
How Can I Protect My Hardwood Floors In The Kitchen?
There are various ways to protect your kitchen’s hardwood flooring. I noticed that my hardwood floor’s sworn enemy is water. You must wipe spills right away before they get soaked by the wood. So, what I do is always keep a microfiber mop in my kitchen. It’s best for absorbing spills without damaging the finish of the floor. It’s also great at picking up dirt and can last you for years.
Having kids, it’s also unavoidable that chairs get dragged around the kitchen. This being said, I make sure to put soft furniture pads on any movable chair or table to prevent it from leaving marks or scratches on the floor. I do the same with heavy appliances like the fridge, stove, or dishwasher. I put felt sliders under them for when I need to move them during cleaning or reorganizing the kitchen.
Do Rugs Ruin Hardwood Floors?
Yes and no. Using the wrong type of rug can damage your hardwood floor in several ways. Using a latex backed rug will trap moisture that ends up damaging your hardwood floor’s finish. Another thing you should avoid is using low-quality rug pads. Most of them have an adhesive coating that will end up sticking on your floors and leaving stains on them.
And no because as long as you use the right type of rug and rug pad, your hardwood floor is safe. It will even help your hardwood floor last longer. It’s best to use a wool rug, paired with a rug pad that’s made with a combination of felt and rubber. This prevents your rug from sliding all over the place while at the same time keep your hardwood floor safe from moisture and stains.
What Is The Best Chair Mat For Hardwood Floors?
The best chair mat to use on hardwood floors is those that are made of PVC or Polycarbonate. I personally use a transparent polycarbonate chair mat made and I love how it works with the design of my hardwood floor. Aside from the design, it’s also durable. I’ve had this one for about 2 years and it still looks good as new.
It doesn’t move around and is effective in keeping my office chair from scratching or denting the floor. When I’m working, I tend to stand up a lot when I feel sleepy or when I need to stretch my back and legs. This means my chair constantly gliding on the mat and it’s been holding up really well.
Is It A Good Idea To Put Hardwood Floors In The Kitchen?
Yes. Using hardwood floors is one of the best decisions I made when building my dream kitchen. Not only does it increase the value of the property, but it’s also a durable and long-lasting investment if taken care of properly.
Some shy away from using hardwood floors because they are known to be high maintenance. But they are just like any other flooring once you get used to it. The first thing you have to remember is to keep them from absorbing water.
This means wipe up spills right away and check for leaks under the sink every once in a while. As well as to use the right type of rug. This is something you have to do anyway no matter what type of flooring you have. Wiping spills right away and using proper rugs keep your kitchen safe. And checking for leaks is a good practice in any home.
Are Gel Pro Mats Safe For Hardwood Floors?
Yes, they are. Hard floorings can increase the stress on your spine caused by standing up for long periods. Using a cushioned kitchen mat will greatly reduce that stress. I have one placed in front of my workstation in the kitchen when I’m baking or preparing meals. Sometimes I move it in front of the sink for when I have a lot of dishwashing to do.
It doesn’t leave any stain on my floor and it doesn’t leave sticky residues either. It is also stain and puncture resistant so even if I drop something, I’m not worried that it will scratch or stain my floor because the mat takes care of it. It is an investment but it’s worth the peace of mind that I got in return. It is more expensive to have my hardwood floors refinished if it gets damaged by a cheaper or less effective mat.
Should I Get Rubber Floor Mats?
If you have a hardwood floor, do yourself a favor and stay away from rubber floor mats. Or any rubber backed floor mats in general. I learned it the hard and expensive way. Rubber mats have chemicals that eventually discolor hardwood flooring. With any luck, it may even leave stains and residue on your flooring like it did on mine.
All things considered, choosing the right rug or mat really depends on what you want it for but it doesn’t have to be stressful. You just have to sit down and think what are the things you are looking for, an area rug for added comfort when walking around or maybe an anti-fatigue mat for those who spend long hours in their kitchen, what color or design and that will definitely limit your options making it easier for you to pick one. So go save this on your bookmarks for when you need a little help what kind of mat to get for your kitchen’s precious hardwood floor. Don’t stress and enjoy shopping for your dream rug!
Hey
Thank you for this amazing article! It has opened up my mind about the mats.
I can’t seem to find mats that can be configured for different size spaces. I need to cover approximately 4 X 6 (typical space between cooktop and sink on the island). I really dislike having the seam down the middle caused by fixed-size mats (e.g., 2 x 5). Do some sell a product that can be sized to meet my needs?
Hey Tessah,
Thanks for writing this in-depth review. Actually, I am also searching for information on best kitchen mats for my hardwood floors. But there is a lot of reviews on the web that makes me confused which one I should buy. Fortunately, I have come across your website and found what I am looking for. I am going to buy GelPro Classic Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat. I like it as it is easy to clean, comfortable, and easy to use. Thanks again for helping to make a decision.