Hey, I haven't seen you around here for a while! It's nice to have you back. How's the new kitchen working out? Any new pics??? As far as kitchen rugs go, other than washable and ones that won't trip you as you walk back and forth, my suggestion would be to go for comfort. I'm off to check out donnar's link, too, as my only rug is a small, woven one in front of the cooktop. Kind of pitiful, actually.

Wow, I was thrilled to find this thread. We have just refinished our hardwood floors, and after the cost and what we went through to get them refinished, I am determined to keep them looking new! We raised 3 boys on them and they were pretty beat up, particularly in front of the refrigerator with water damage. Now, I am contemplating what, if any, rug I might place in the kitchen. I'm thinking a runner at the sink/prep area, and a 2x3 in front of the fridge. I'm interested in the comment by one that the floor/finish is not showing wear and tear after 7 years - I would hope for that! If I get a rug, I want something easy to clean/throw in the wash or hose off. Has anyone used polypropylene on hardwood? Crate & Barrel has some indoor/outdoor rugs made of that in a neutral color, I just want to be certain that product wouldn't scratch the floor. I tend to be an all natural gal though, cotton and wool. I would prefer to have nothing, if I felt certain the prep area wouldn't show wear. I'm thinking all cotton, with no pad or backing, is a good choice to try, throw in the wash, and if I don't like it I'll go back to nothing. I wanted to comment on rugs placed for comfort - I have always worn house shoes with great support for long hours in the kitchen, which are far better than any rug/gel rug can provide. Back in the day it was Birkenstocks, but a few years ago I discovered Fit Flops, and they are the best!! Got that cushy support under your feet with every step. :-)

Okay, I've never liked anything that *looks like* bathroom or kitchen rugs. That doesn't mean I don't like a rug in the bathroom though - I just want something pretty and decorative. I also don't like the fact that many bathroom rugs, people step out of the shower/tub wet on the rugs and then they sit there damp. I use a long oriental type rug in front of the double vanity. Nothing un front of the tub or shower. What we do is use the bath mats (like a thick towel) and lay those over the side of the tub when finished. They dry out quickly and are laundered often. That said, I'm certainly not saying what is in or out of style or what someone should do, just the personal preference around our house LOL. tina

With wood floors, I would just protect by the sink due to potential water damage. For years we have used a patterned jute rug with a non slip pad. It can be flipped, so extends usage and can be sprayed down/hung to dry outside (never wanted to potentially damage our washing machine. They are also inexpensive, so can be easily replaced. I came across this mat if interested, which is polyester vs jute and noticed its attributes: made in Italy, washable, rubber backed, a darker simple pattern and only $40CDN. I often purchase from Simons and have never been disappointed. There are countless styles and price ranges if interested in jute. I’d definitely not add a fabric mat in front of stove and just quickly wipe up. https://m.simons.ca/en/rugs-furniture/rugs/hallway-runners/braided-jute-kitchen-mat-52-x-150-cm--17271-3202250?colorId=16&epik=dj0yJnU9R0pPbHlkUHUwbHpCWkRYOEVZUER4Y2phTDRjTEhHZWomcD0wJm49Vzc2NEI2aUdSZjctZ1RLRy1GR1ZFZyZ0PUFBQUFBR0dfT29v Perhaps consider a patterned, vinyl/pvc mat, which is non slip and can be wiped clean - especially if wanting one at stove. It will protect wood from normal wear and tear as well. It will last forever, comes in endless designs/colors and can even be custom. https://www.etsy.com/listing/881617716/astolpho-45-vinyl-floor-mat-vinyl-rug?utm_medium=display_product&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=us_pros_daba_olfgms&utm_content=homeliving_autobid&utm_custom2=626743244770&pp=1&epik=dj0yJnU9RGRuUElEN2JpWDB2OHhLNGJPeWZhc3VkajJwbng2eHcmcD0wJm49dFBtWWdCWl9jMHRxMlh5X2hscmk0ZyZ0PUFBQUFBR0dfVkY4