Choosing the right width is one of the most important decisions when buying a stair runner. The width can completely change the look of your staircase, so it is worth getting it right before you order.
As a general guide, we recommend leaving around 10cm of exposed staircase on each side of your runner.
This creates a balanced, generous look without covering too much of the original staircase.
The 10cm rule
For most staircases, around 10cm of wood showing on either side of the runner is a great place to start.
This isn't a hard-and-fast rule, but it is a useful guide when deciding what will look best.
Leaving around 10cm on either side gives you the best of both worlds.
You still get to see the beautiful timber of your staircase, while the runner feels substantial enough to make an impact.
A runner that is too narrow can sometimes look a little lost on a wider staircase. On the other hand, a runner that is too wide can cover too much of the staircase and make the space feel more carpeted than you intended.
Around 10cm each side creates a lovely visual balance.
How to calculate the width you need
It’s simple: staircase width minus 20cm = approximate runner width.
For example:
- 70cm stairs = 50cm runner
- 80cm stairs = 60cm runner
- 90cm stairs = 70cm runner
- 100cm stairs = 80cm runner
This leaves around 10cm of exposed stair on each side.
These are guidelines only, so you can choose a wider or narrower runner depending on the look you want.
What if I want more wood showing?
Absolutely! You can choose a narrower runner if you want more of your beautiful timber stairs to show.
Leaving 12cm, 15cm or more on each side can create a more contemporary look.
If you prefer a fuller, more luxurious carpeted look, choose a wider runner.
There’s no single correct width, it’s really down to the look you prefer.
What about the border?
Don’t forget to include the edging when choosing your runner width.
The edging is included in the overall finished width of the runner.
For example, a 60cm runner with a 5cm border on each side will still be 60cm wide overall.
What about narrow or very wide staircases?
The 10cm gap on each side is a good starting point, but very narrow or wide stairs may need a different approach.
Consider:
- The width of your stairs
- How much wood you want showing
- The style and pattern of the runner
- The type of edging
- Whether your stairs are open
- Whether you have turning or winder steps
If you have an unusual staircase, get in touch before ordering and we’ll be happy to advise.
Don't forget the landing
If your staircase leads onto a landing, you should also think about how the runner will meet the landing carpet.
A well-planned staircase and landing combination makes the whole area feel much more cohesive.
We can help you choose a landing carpet to complement your stair runner, whether you want the same carpet throughout or a contrasting design.
Can I choose a bespoke width?
Yes! That's one of the benefits of choosing a made-to-measure stair runner.
At Stair Runners Direct, you can choose your carpet, choose your edging and select the width to suit your staircase. Custom sizes are available on many of our runners.
So if you measure your staircase and decide that a 62cm or 68cm runner would look best, you don't necessarily have to compromise by choosing the nearest standard size.
Ready to choose your stair runner?
Browse our collection of made-to-measure stair runners, choose your favourite carpet and edging, and we'll make your runner to the size you need.
And if you're still unsure, send us a photo and the width of your stairs and we'll be happy to advise you on what we think would look best.
