Runner Rugs: Sizes, Placement and Where to Use Them

Runner rugs are long, narrow rugs made for hallways, kitchens, and beside the bed. They add warmth, protect high-traffic floors and lead the eye through a space. Here is how to size and place a runner for the best look.

Where to use a runner rug

• Hallways and corridors — the classic use.
• Kitchens — in front of the counter or sink.
• Beside the bed — one on each side of a large bed.
• Entryways — a long welcome underfoot.

What size runner rug do I need?

Leave 10 to 15 cm of bare floor on each side, and stop the runner about 30 cm short of the walls at each end. For hallways, measure the length and subtract roughly 60 cm in total. See the rug size guide.

Runner placement tips

Centre the runner in the space, keep the floor border even, and use a rug pad to stop slipping on hard floors. More in the placement guide.

Browse hand-knotted rugs, made to order in any runner length, at RUGKARI.

Frequently asked questions

Where do runner rugs go?

In hallways, kitchens, entryways and beside the bed — any long, narrow, high-traffic space.

What size should a runner rug be?

Leave 10 to 15 cm of floor on each side and stop about 30 cm short of the walls at each end.

Can I get a custom-length runner?

Yes. Made-to-order runners can be woven to your exact hallway length.