The ultimate guide to choosing the perfect stair runner

Choosing how to decorate your staircase can be a tough decision! Should you go with full carpet or a natural wooden finish, or paint them for a more modern look?

If you want to make your staircase a feature and focal point of your home, a stair runner might be the solution. With the right material, style, and installation, a stair runner can make your stairs safer and more comfortable. They can also help give your home a more modern aesthetic. 

In this guide, we’ll talk you through some options to consider before purchasing your stair runner. 

What is the best carpet for my stair runner?

As stairs are a high-traffic area, durability is key. This means you will want a material that looks good and can withstand daily use. Short pile carpets are generally better suited than long pile carpets because they provide a more stable and secure surface for walking, reducing the risk of trips and falls.

If you have children or pets, you may want to consider a carpet that’s more stain-resistant and easy to clean. Wool is a popular choice due to its durability and natural stain resistance, while synthetic fibres can be more budget-friendly. Here are some of the best options to consider:

Twist Pile Carpets:

Twist pile carpets are an excellent choice for stair runners due to their hard-wearing nature. They’re less prone to showing marks and scuffs, making them perfect for busy homes, particularly those with children or pets. They have a soft yet firm texture, providing comfort and durability in high-traffic areas.

Loop Pile Carpets:

Loop pile carpets are durable, making them a popular choice for stair runners. They are often available in natural tones or berber-flecked designs, providing a rustic and attractive look. However, if you have pets, be cautious: their claws can get caught in the loops, which may result in a damaged carpet.

Saxony Carpets:

For a more luxurious option, Saxony carpets offer a super-soft feel thanks to their dense construction, longer tufts and deep pile. They add an extra layer of comfort, making them ideal for households where shoes are always off. However, their longer pile makes them more prone to flattening over time.

Choosing the right design & accessories

Finding the right design for your home can be overwhelming. Stair runners come in various patterns and colours, including stripes, plains, and neutrals. Stripes can add visual length to your staircase, making your space feel bigger, while plain or neutral designs offer a more minimalist aesthetic, creating a sense of calm. Runners can also be made to match your existing carpet for a seamless flow throughout your home. Think about the overall look and feel of your home and if you want the runner to blend in or stand out. 

Accessories like stair rods and clips can enhance your runner’s overall look, giving you a sleek and stylish finish, but sometimes, less is more. For busy patterns, such as tartan or stripes, consider a more minimalist approach to avoid overwhelming the design. In these cases, a matching edging border might be a better choice for a clean finish.

How wide should my stair runner be?

The width of your stair runner is entirely up to you, but there are some guidelines to follow for the best visual result. Ideally, you’ll want to leave about four inches of exposed stair on either side of the runner. This creates a contrast between the runner and the stairs, giving the staircase a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look. However, always consider the specific dimensions of your staircase and how much of it you want to showcase.

Stair runners are a unique and classical way to enhance your stairs and home. Whether you opt for a matching runner to complement your hallway or a bespoke design made specifically for your stairs, stair runners allow you to create something special for your home.

We can support you every step of the way. Take advantage of our free measure and quote service. Our experienced team will visit you and measure your stairs, ensuring the correct amount of carpet is ordered and the runners fit your home perfectly.