SFGate

PYRAMID DESIGN GROUP There is no set answer--either way can work. Do you want the runner for color? Is it to make the stairs more comfortable?

orangecamera Don't put a carpet runner on stairs unless you are okay with vacuuming on stairs. If you have back problems, you'll be happier just sweeping.

LB Interiors Either is fine. Carpet will prevent you from slipping and also safer for children. I prefer carpet because I think uncarpeted stairs can be very noisy.

ASVInteriors Pros for runner: warm on feet, buffers noise, safer for children and family, add colour, creates cosy atmosphere
Cons: expensive, a pain to clean, can get dirty, more difficult to replace when you tire

Dytecture This is a personal choice. But I dislike runners on a staircase.

antique Yes it's such a personal choice but runners do tend to attract dust and are much harder to keep clean. That said carpet will deaden the noise of foot traffic and it's safer if you have kids.

Arlene Warda, Architecture+Interior Design What type of house do you have? Modern or traditional. Modern house stairs tend not to have runners, wood, metal, or glass stairs, and traditional homes, wood stairs. do tend to have runners. I agree with safety concerns mentioned above. So, what type of house do you have? Modern or traditional? and do you have an actual picture of the stairs?

Manhattta Architecture, P.C. Be aware that if you do not use a stair rod, the installers will destroy the stair treads with their staple guns.

LB Interiors It's a difficult decision, guess you would have to list the pros and cons to determine the answer.