Non-slip rug padding is an essential part of any rug installation. They provide a cushioned base for your rug, help to prevent it from slipping, and can also protect both your floor and rug from damage.
There are many different types of rug pads available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. The most common types of rug pads are made of felt, rubber, or synthetic foam. Felt pads are the most common type and are a good all-purpose option. They are often times reversible as well to use on different floor types. Rubber pads are more durable and can provide great traction, but they can also be more expensive and have a strong (temporary) odor. Synthetic foam pads can be the most cushioned type of pad and can provide a softer feel underfoot. foam pads can be super thin too.
The thickness of your rug pad is also important to consider and will depend on your needs. If you have a thick rug, you’ll need a thicker pad to prevent it from bunching up. If you have a thin rug, you can get away with a thinner pad. You should also consider any door or furniture that will need to move above the rug. If a pad is too thick, your doors can have trouble opening and closing over the rug.
Once you’ve selected your rug pad, it’s important to install it properly. For most pads, you’ll simply need to place it on the ground where you want the rug to be. You may have to use a blade or scissor to cut the pad too. You want your rug pad to be a bit smaller than the rug it’s going under. About 1-2″ per side shorter is a good idea. Lastly, depending on the pad and floor type, you might need to use some double faced tape or mild adhesive to keep the pad in place on the floor, though this is rare.
Why You Need Non-Slip Rug Padding
There are many reasons why you need non-slip rug padding. First, and most obvious, it helps to prevent your rug from slipping. This is especially important if you have hardwood floors, which can be slippery. Second, non-slip rug padding can help to protect your floors from damage. If your rug is constantly slipping, it can cause the floors to wear prematurely. Third, non-slip rug padding can make your rug more comfortable to walk on. A cushioned pad can help to reduce fatigue and discomfort, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet. Lastly, a high quality pad can help maintain your expensive rug and prevent it from excessive ware.
The Differences Between Styles of Non-Slip Rug Padding
Non-Slip rug pads come in many different shapes, sizes, materials and colors. Each with its own unique benefits. Some of the most popular styles include:
- Felt & Rubber pads: Felt pads are the most common type of rug pad. They are often made from recycled materials and are available in a variety thicknesses. Felt pads are a good all-purpose option as they provide a little bit of everything. They are often also reversible – Felt side down if your rug is going on top of carpeting, and rubber side down for everything else.
- Rubber pads: Rubber pads are more durable than felt pads and can provide better traction and longer life. They are also available in a variety of colors and thicknesses. Rubber pads are a good option for high-traffic areas or for rugs that are prone to slipping. They are quite versatile as far as floor type compatibility goes. Just be aware that some people do not like the odor that comes off with a natural rubber pad. But this odor eventually fades away.
- Synthetic foam pads: Foam pads are the most cushioned type of rug pad (they can be very thin too). They can provide a softer feel underfoot and can help to reduce fatigue and discomfort. Foam pads are a good option for people who spend a lot of time on their feet or for rugs that are used in high-traffic areas. They offer more than ample non-slip properties as well.
In summary, when choosing a rug pad, it’s important to consider the following:
- The type of rug you have and how thick it is
- The room it’s being placed in. Is it high traffic? Are there doors and other obstacles that can drag over it?
- The type of floor it’s going on – Hardwood, Laminate, Tile, Radiant Heating, etc. (not all rug pads are suitable on all floor types)
- Budget
And if you’re unsure, you can always reach out to us for help.
View our selection of rug pads HERE