I've always found area rugs in my (small) kitchen too difficult to keep clean and I also think they're a trip hazard.

No need.

I have a pretty rug in front of my sink, I am always barefoot in the house and it feels good to stand on when I’m working in there. I like color and the colors in it kind of ground the space, so I’d have to say a pretty runner wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing if you are so inclined.

I have a polypropylene rug/runner in front of my sink and dishwasher. I looks like a traditional Oriental style, but a flatter weave. I like that it keeps drips off the wood floors from the sink and dishwasher. When it gets dirty, I just put it outside and hose it off, sweep it with a broom and some detergent and rinse again. Good as new. This isn't the one I have but I was looking for a similar style to post and found this; now I have to order it! $69 for a 4x6 free shipping/free returns at esalerugs and 10% more off because I'm ordering another little rug I need.