How To Choose Stair Tread Rugs

Stair tread rugs are a quick and effective way to add style and coziness to your stairway. They are easy to install, can protect you from accidental slipping, and come in a wide variety of designs. Besides, stair treads are ideal for shielding stairways from scratches and marks.

Since tread rugs are available in various materials and styles, choosing one can be overwhelming. You wouldn't want to purchase a set and then realize it doesn't match your existing home decor.

Although the options are endless, there are certain features that you should consider when purchasing stair tread rugs. Here, we offer handy tips to help you narrow down the best choices based on materials, textures, and safety considerations suitable for you.

What types of stair tread rugs are there?

Stair tread rugs can be divided into two major categories:

Standard stair tread rugs

Standard rugs have space between the tread's edge and the step's edge. They offer a minimalist look, are better suited for contemporary decors and look good when made of natural fibers such.

Light Brown Traditional Polypropylene Stair Tread

Brown Classic Synthetic Fiber Stair Rugs

Dark Green Polypropylene Rectangular Stair Rugs

Bullnose treads

Bullnose treads protect stairs from damage and can reduce noise when going up and down the steps. These wrap around the stair's edge and provide an elegant, continuous albeit a more traditional appearance.

Brown Classic Synthetic Fiber Bullnose Rugs

Brown Contemporary Fiber Bullnose Stair Rugs

Black Modern Rubber Semi Circle Bullnose Stair Tread

Brown Traditional Fiber Semi Circle Stair Rugs

How to select the size and thickness of stair tread rugs?

The stair tread's size will depend on how much of the stair-step you want covered.

Simply measure the stair from left to right and top to bottom and decide how much you want to cover. Stair treads typically only cover the center of the stair that is most walked on.
Wide stair treads such as 36 inches are usually used for outdoor steps while narrower treads such as 22.5 inches are preferable for interiors.

As for thickness, you need to find balance between comfort and safety. Thick stair treads aren't necessarily always the best. If you have short steps, it's best to choose thin tread rugs to avoid accidents when they wrap around the edge of the step. High and lengthy stairs are suitable for any type of stair tread thickness.

How to pick the best material for stair tread rugs?

Before selecting a design and color for your stair tread rugs, you'll need to determine which material best matches your needs. You would want a material that is sturdy enough to handle the level of foot traffic you're expecting.

Wool is a good option for stairs with medium foot traffic. It is long-wearing, provides softness and warmth, and adds an elegant look to stairways. Wool stair treads have insulating qualities that allow them to stay warm in the winter and remain cool in the summer.

Polypropylene stair treads are long-lasting and can stand up to heavy use. This material is affordable, stain-resistant, and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor staircases. Households with children and pets usually opt for polypropylene because of its ability to resist tracked-in dirt.

Gray Blue Traditional Polypropylene Stair Tread

Gray Traditional Polypropylene Stair Tread

Red White Traditional Polypropylene Stair Rugs

Sisal stair treads are water-resistant and convenient for environments with heavy foot traffic. They are thin, durable, long-lasting, and natural-looking that goes well with minimalistic decor. However, they aren't as smooth as stair treads made of wool and polypropylene.

Brown Traditional Fiber Rectangle Stair Rugs

Seagrass stair tread rugs are similar to sisal treads. This material can resist stains, water, and dirt, requires low maintenance, is durable, and suitable for bustling homes.

Nylon is easy to clean, stain-resistant, durable, and can withstand heavy foot traffic both indoors and outdoors. Nylon stair treads are also known for being able to hold colors well and last for a long time.

Polyester is highly affordable, easy to clean, long-lasting, and fading- and stain-resistant. Polyester stair treads come in a wide selection of colors and styles that could fit any theme.

How to select a stair tread's color and style to match your home decor?

The easiest way to choose your stair tread rug's color is by picking existing colors from upholstery, accessories, and furniture nearby. For instance, if you have plant pots in neutral tones close to your staircase, you can match them with neutral-colored stair treads.
If the interior is filled with patterns, switch it up by choosing a stair tread in a solid color. On the other hand, you can spice up a room furnished in solid tones by purchasing treads with visually interesting patterns.
A modern space looks better with solid-colored stair treads.
A white interior with neutral-colored stair treads such as beige creates an elegant and sophisticated look.
If you want to add more personality to a plain white interior, choose bright colors such as blue and red to make a statement. Most colors and patterns go well with white and cream walls.
Oriental and braided stair treads look best in traditional homes. These come in various colors and patterns and provide a country-inspired style.
Natural stair treads such as those made of wool and sisal complement modern, shabby chic, and rustic atmospheres.
Choose matching sets of stair treads, landing mats, and area rugs for a unique and complete theme.
Plush carpet stair treads offer warmth and coziness to an interior, making your home feel more welcoming and homey.

What are the safety features to look for in stair tread rugs?

Most hard-surface staircases are slippery, especially for children and elders. Therefore, you should look for stair tread rugs that could protect people from slipping and falling.

The stair tread rugs should be correctly installed and fastened to your stairs. They are usually affixed with double-back tape, staples, or adhesive.
For outdoor steps, choose stair treads that are made of high-quality materials such as rubber. They should be able to withstand environmental conditions such as heavy rain, snow, and ice to keep their anti-slip properties and offer sufficient traction. Outdoor stair treads should be attached to the steps by an adhesive.
A good stair tread should have a non-slippery surface and add traction to your stairs to reduce the chances of tripping and slipping.
If you have an elder in the household, choose low pile carpet stair treads if they have difficulty raising their legs.
Stair tread rugs in a different color from the actual stairs can help people identify each step easier to avoid accidents such as falling.