Stoke edged fellow strugglers QPR to end a four-match losing run and put a little daylight between themselves and the relegation zone.
After a turgid opening, Stoke came to life and went ahead on the stroke of half-time when Luke McNally flicked on Lewis Baker's in-swinging corner and captain Wouter Burger tapped in at the far post.
Rangers tried to respond after the break, but failed to land a second-half attempt on target as their unbeaten four-match run came to a subdued end.
The Potters' had won just two of their previous 17 league matches, but held on to secure a first victory at the Bet365 Stadium since October.