Stair Runner | Easy to Clean Stair Runners
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Classic and timeless stair runner options that have the look and feel of sisal, without the fuss.
As you know, projects take time around here. Like 4+ years. When we moved in, we almost immediately removed carpet from the entryway stairs. I consider “plush” carpet road hazard. I cannot tell you how many times I have slipped up, or worse, down, carpeted stairs. There’s something about having a little grip that prevents a slip.
I know others who worry not having carpet is too harsh for a fall, but if you don’t fall in the first place, nothing to worry about, right?
A stair runner is the best of both worlds. It offers a peek of exposed treads and risers with a layer of color and texture to add interest.
4 years ago, we exposed the less than perfect treads and risers, sanding, staining and painting them. After taking a breather from larger projects {like the kitchen} I’m finally adding a stair runner. You can see the before, during and after below and more before and afters of our home here:
I wanted the neutral, classic and timeless aesthetic of sisal, without the mess or inability to thoroughly clean it. I found beautiful stair runners and shared them first on Instagram stories. You can go behind the scenes with me on Instagram for video tours of individual spaces, to see my decision making process and more! I was overwhelmed with hundreds of responses and requests for more information so I decided to bring it to the blog to share all the details!
To be honest, they’re all beautiful options and it’s going to be so difficult to choose. As you can see, the color reads a little different in photos from the online images. I’d love to know which you would choose. First, let’s discuss the options!
Stair Runners that Look Like Sisal:
The first is Laguna Dune. It’s larger weave would be the softest on foot.
Belize Dune feels classic and clean.
Montego Dune offers a fun pattern.
The Domingo Dune mimics a sisal stair runner.
Get more of my best tips for layering rug in this design guide for Layering Rugs on Carpet!
The Benefits of Using a Stair Runner in Outdoor Material:
- easy to clean – with water or soap {if needed}!
- inexpensive
- easy to install
You can find these stair runners and several more options here.
I’m excited to dress these stairs up…can’t wait to install it! Correction, can’t wait until Chris installs it!
Mel says
Hello. Did you ever choose a stair runner? How is the cotton one wearing on the basement stairs? I’m worried cotton will look dingy and stain quickly. I haven’t found indoor/outdoor to be as easy to clean, especially in the winter, as one would think and of course you can’t take a stair runner out and hose it down. I can’t make up my mind which runner material to go on for my main staircase … dogs, kids, etc. I would really like a light color but my husband thinks crazy. Any advice? Thank you.
Julie Blanner says
It has held up remarkably well! I think indoor outdoor rugs depend on their quality. I’ve had amazing luck with Serena and Lily and Dash and Albert along with Sisal Rugs Direct. They wipe clean with water and you can run a carpet cleaner on them with just water. I don’t regret ours 4 years later.
Linda Grant says
I favor natural wood steps with ceramic colored/patterned tiles just under each step.
Julie says
Pretty idea!
Deidre Miles says
Lagniappe Dune stood out from the pack immediately for me!
Julie says
So good isn’t it? Thank you!
Amy Fraser-White says
Laguna Dune, would be my choice. I am sure any of them would look beautiful!