Brown is a forgiving colour for a working room, and this one has a warm, natural tone. As a jute runner it sits happily in front of a kitchen counter, where a plain, quiet floor helps more than a busy pattern would.

• Material: 80% jute, 20% cotton
• Backing: felt with PVC nubs
• Handwoven in India
• Flat weave, plain brown with a simple border
• Suitable for underfloor heating

Jute comes from the stems of a plant grown mainly in India and Bangladesh. It feels firmer and a little coarser underfoot than wool. Because it is woven flat, crumbs and stray hairs lift out easily, which suits a kitchen runner. The runner shape also works in a hallway, and the full Kitchen Rugs range shows other options for the room. Fond of natural fibres? Jute Rugs is a good place to start. Put a thin pad underneath on tiles or smooth wood so it stays flat.

Jute drinks up moisture, so keep this runner out of damp rooms. Vacuum on a low setting with the brush off, and soak up spills with kitchen roll straight away. Steam and wet cleaning are out, so read how to clean your rug before tackling a stain. A quick pass with the vacuum now and then keeps this brown runner looking tidy.