I do agree that white risers would look better. However, it sounds like the function of white risers is less than ideal to maintain a clean looking home. You could stain now, then once the kids are grown, paint them white OR paint them white now with the condition that cleaning the risers is added to the husband/kid's weekly chore list.

My risers are white and have stayed clean - except when the floor installers were working upstairs. We are mostly a no shoes in the house family and most of those living upstairs are girls.

The risers will need periodic cleaning if white, so if painted, get a good washable topcoat. Another option is to have a runner on the stairs. I have stair tread rugs, so the risers are still bare. (stair tread rugs are in my idea book)

Our risers are painted because they were made out of a pine that had too many knots to look good stained. My sister in law's are all stained and I love them. I agree with above - they can always be painted later - but it would be very difficult to remove paint in order to stain.

Thank you. I've told my husband that if I cave to the white risers, then he will be responsible for painting them!

The stairs you installed have beautiful oak treads and risers. It almost seems like a crime to paint the risers. I have done many projects and it all comes down to your personal taste, either way is correct. I agree with European windows and doors, stain now and paint later.