Looking for stair carpets and runners to transform your staircase? From stripes to classic beige, give your hallway the five-star treatment with a new carpet.
Carpets work wonders on stairs, providing soft and spongy comfort underfoot. Whether you want to make a design statement or prefer a pared-back neutral look, or you've set your heart on a grey stair carpet over a patterned one, we've got stylish suggestions to suit every interior style and budget. And don't forget, you can find the perfect stair carpet from our exclusive House Beautiful collection at Carpetright for a design that's both hardwearing and practical.
What is the best carpet for stairs?
As a high-traffic area, it's crucial that the carpet covering a staircase is durable to withstand its activity levels. When it comes to the best stair carpet material, synthetic nylon carpet may be your best bet for safety and strength, while wool is also a good option as its fibres repel stains and dirt (although it's more expensive). Meanwhile, berber carpets are an incredibly durable choice for staircases as they are made from loops instead of strands.
Full stair carpets or a stair runner carpet?
As well as all-over carpet, a modern stair runner is a great way to transform a simple staircase. 'A runner is an excellent way of updating your staircase without breaking the bank,' says Myles Shaw, Managing Director from runrug.
Essentially, a stair runner is fitted to the middle of your staircase, leaving some wood visible on either side of each step, while with fully carpeted options, the entire steps are covered.
'A stairway is often the first thing your guests see as they step inside your home and can completely set the tone for your personal interior style,' says Jess Contomichalos, Interior Stylist at Cormar Carpets. 'Fully carpeted stairs project a feeling of opulence, while a runner will add wow factor.'
Why is carpeting on stairs a good idea?
Carpet is a great option on stairs, especially for homes with young children and elderly family members. Hardwood flooring can become dangerous if anything spills or little ones run with socks. Carpet might not prevent falls, but it certainly provides more stability when climbing stairs.
How much does it cost to carpet a staircase?
According to Checkatrade, the average cost of carpeting a straight, single staircase will usually be around £75 to £100. Meanwhile, the average cost of a carpet fitter is around £120 - £150 per day. If your staircase has a number of changes in direction, it may cost more.
It's also worth noting that the cost will depend on what style you choose. More luxurious carpets, including those made from real wool, will cost more than synthetic materials. Additional bars or staircase rods will also affect the cost.
Do stair carpets need underlay?
'We always recommend that stair carpets and runners should be fitted with a good quality underlay,' Julian Downes at Fibre, tells House Beautiful UK. 'An underlay will do the vital task of taking a significant proportion of the ongoing wear and tear and it would be a false economy to choose a beautiful carpet only to cut corners with your underlay.'
It finances allow, it's a good idea to choose the best quality underlay to avoid undue wear and tear of your carpet. Your manufacturer or retailer will be able to advise on an underlay to suit the carpet and installation, as well as discuss the different options.
Julian adds: 'Wherever possible, choose a contract-rated underlay (an 8mm carpet underlay) to ensure you have the optimal durability. A good underlay offers comfort under foot and sound insulation, too – a welcome bonus for busy households!'
Whether patterned or plain, there are lots of stylish stair carpet ideas for your stairs and landing. Browse through these suggestions...