Standing Barefoot in the Kitchen Wreaks Havoc on Your Arches—Which Is Why You Need This Cushioned, Washable Rug
Not-so-fun fact: Long hours standing in the kitchen doing dishes or whipping up your favorite meal can wreak havoc on your bones and joints. Tile, wood, laminate flooring all have one thing in common—they're hard and unforgiving. Layer on standing for long periods of time in unsupportive slippers or bare feet, and you've got yourself a one-way ticket to Ache City. Or a foot massage.
I've been personally victimized by my hardwood floors a time or two myself. Even a mere 30 minute of loading dirty dishes can send my spine into overdrive, which is why I've replaced my cheap kitchen mat with a plush, cushioned 2'x3' Ruggable Rug ($139) that's totally machine-washable.
Available in black, lapis blue, camel, and slate blue.
This is my second Ruggable rug, and just like the first, it's a game-changer come laundry day. All of the brand's rugs come with two pieces: a lightweight rug cover and a nonslip pad. The nonslip pad is covered in a Velcro-like grippy material that keeps the rug cover in place (without it, your rug will slip and slide). When it gets dirty or spilled upon, simply un-peel it from the backing and pop it in the washer and dryer. Yep—it's that simple.
Unlike my first Ruggable rug, however, I got my 2'x'3' kitchen mat with the brand's Cushioned Rug Pad for an extra $20. It's specifically designed for withstanding long periods of time on your feet, measuring out at 10 millimeters thick with an additional layer of plushness in the middle for shock absorption.
In essence, it's the brand's version of an anti-fatigue mat, which orthopedic surgeons like Gbolahan Okubadejo, MD, say can help alleviate pain and soreness in the body. "Anti-fatigue mats lower the time of static standing and make your legs make a subtle motion," Dr. Okubadejo previously told us. "Because of this, your muscles balance the instability of anti-fatigue mats, which helps you maintain blood flow in the body and forces you to change your posture." They also limit flat-footed standing—something I personally struggle with—which is a sneaky cause of pain in the ankles, knees, and heels.
For an extra $20, your plain kitchen mat can turn into a recovery tool that'll turn dishes and meal prep into enjoyable activities. Simply switching out my old rug for a Ruggable one has completely changed my kitchen game so much, that I treated my mom to her own for Mother's Day this year. If I had my druthers (and a lot more cash to spare), I'd have one for every room of the house.
I currently have the Jonathan Adler Inkdrop rug ($139) in my kitchen, which matches the minimalist, boho look I'm going for. However, there are hundreds of designs to shop, plus a variety of colors, sizes, pile heights, and materials. Outdoor rugs, jute rugs, shag rugs—all of 'em are washable and most are available to plush-ified with the cushion system.
7 other Ruggable designs that look (and feel) amazing
No matter your style, you can’t go wrong with a traditional pattern, like this Persian-inspired rug. It features medallions and floral patterns in a timeless color palette (great for hiding spills, BTW). Available in distressed red, hazel, coral, ivory opal, royal blue, and blue quartz.
We’re suckers for intricate patterns in minimalist hues, which is exactly what the Herdanza rug offers. From far away, it looks like it’s embroidered with textures, giving even the most neutral spaces a little flair. Available in Delft blue, navy blue, and black and white.
If you’re more into the modern look, add this contemporary rug to your cart. The vintage, abstract shapes add a pop of color to kitchens and bathrooms, and feels as good as it looks. Available in greyscale, rainbow, sage, and teal.
More of a florals fan? This design puts a contemporary twist on your typical flower pattern, illustrated with a bouquet of colorful flowers, leaves, and sprouts. Available in orange cream, sage, and teal.
For those who prefer a more realistic floral arrangement, check out the Peony print. It’s splashed with intricate blooms that look elegant and classy in your kitchen or workspace. Available in jade or midnight blue.
You can’t go wrong with a classic. This padded rug features a timeless trellis print, layered over a muted colored background that’s simple and chic. Available in a rainbow of colors, from sandy neutrals to muted blues.
Bring the beach to your home with this subtle striped rug. Whether or not you’re going for a full-blown nautical look, or just want to add a touch of coastal elements to your space, it’ll do the trick. Available in slate blue or aqua green.
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