Instead, they hold your rug in place through chemical adhesives that literally stick to your floor. They provide cushioning and sound insulation and naturally grip your rug. Here's why as well as a close look at which is the best rug pad for engineered hardwood flooring. It cant, however, be used on heated floors, or have any heat applied to it. Its available in seven sizes and can be returned within 90 days if youre unsatisfied. As this adhesive deteriorates, it ruins your floor's finish. Next, consider safety and the amount of grip a rug pad provides. The damage is permanent and its not a pretty sight. This no-slip rug pad is a particularly great option for households with pets and small children. While we noticed this rug pad didnt fit perfectly under the test rug, it does come in a variety of sizes (from 2 x 3 feet to 10 x 14 feet) that might work for your rug needs. Need Help? Before installing your rug pad, make sure your floor surface is clean, says Mahserdjian. The lightly cushioned surface of this nonslip rug pad is made of PVC foam, which is known to withstand temperature changes and outdoor conditions. Rubber, latex, and PVC will prevent slipping, but they wont provide significant cushioning. It is made without chemicals and adhesives to reduce VOCs that can be emitted from home products, especially rugs and rug pads. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; No matter the type of mess youre dealing with, an extra-absorbent rug pad is always a good idea for pet ownersand the Carpenter Visco-Elastic Memory Foam Rug Pad is our standout pick in this category. Functionally, it can provide some extra cushion so that your rug feels even better underfoot, says Mahserdjian. Not all rug pads play nice with engineered wood flooring. As far as cleaning the actual rug pad, Mahserdijan suggests periodically vacuuming your rug padno more than every few months, as necessary. Overall, this rug pad is a low-cost option that still gives you a high-quality result. Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), 8 ft. x 10 ft. 1/4 in. Weve tested each so we can report back on how well they work on different surfaces and with rugs of varying pile heights. PVC rug pads are an inexpensive option with some downsides. Our Super-Lock Natural is the rug pad for you. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "false"; Crate & Barrel Multi-Surface Thick Rug Pad, Best Adhesive: For a highly durable rug pad that will keep your rug in place without hurting your wallet, look to the Better Homes & Gardens Cushioned Non-Slip Area Rug Pad. Area rugs add warmth to rooms, but without a rug pad to secure them, they can damage your floors or cause an injury. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; Furniture tends to shift when a room is frequently used, and the rug pad can save your rug and the floor from unintentional damage. Gorilla Grip Thick Felt and Natural Rubber Pad, RUGPADUSA Natures Grip Eco-Friendly Non-Slip Rug Pad. While pets add so much value to our lives, they can also bring messes to our homes. Its grid construction is breathable and can stand up to harsh weather without trapping rainwater under your rug. It is reusable and has a lot of cushion. They provide the cushion of felt with the grip of rubber. If your rug is already on the thicker side, you will likely only need a low-profile nonstick rug pad to prevent slipping and protect both your rug and your floors. ). She suggests selecting a thin felt size, nothing too thick and bulky!. Users wont have to worry about this pad slipping out of place. The wrong rug pad can permanently damage your floor. Eco-friendly rug pads are not just good for the environment, they are kind on your rugs and floors. We found it moved around when used with lighter-pile rugs, so wed advise pairing this one with heavier rugs that will stay put. In particular, there is a popular anti-skid synthetic rubberized product similar to what is used for lining shelves and drawers. The result should be the exact size of your area rug. This rug pad didnt move at all, even when our testers took a running start. Material: Polyester, PVC | Thickness: 0.08 inch | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Intended Use: Outdoor | Floor Compatibility: Varies. Our favorite was the Room&Board Natural Rubber Rug Pad for its impressive quality and steadfastness against sliding. Density Premium Plush Rug Pad, 9 ft. x 12 ft. You can cut most rug pads with sharp scissors. But because it gets its good looks from a handsome top layer of hardwood, it still needs a bit of TLC especially when it comes to protecting it from the wear and tear that an area rug can inflict on wooden floors of all kinds. It holds a Green Label Plus Certification by the Carpet & Rug Institute for low chemical emissions. While you can fix these blemishes by having your engineered hardwood refinished, that's certainly not cheap or particularly convenient. However, this rug pad comes in more than 30 size options, so youre sure to find one that fits your needs. Read on to find out whether memory felt, rubber, memory foam, or latex is your best bet. This is topped by a felt upper that gently grips area rugs without straining their fibers while providing a comfort boost. A rug pad will extend the life of your vinyl flooring and your rug, but make sure you choose the right one. Made with a natural latex rubber material, this rug pad grips the floor and stayed in place during testingeven when we tugged, vacuumed, and jumped on it. Engineered hardwood is easier to fit, more readily available, and not as prone to shrinking or warping as solid hardwood flooring. In fact, going for the wrong one is a surefire way to ruin your flooring's finish. Rug pads are generally low maintenance when it comes to care, but there are a few steps you can take to ensure their longevity. Testing proved its durability with no flaws, tears, or other wear after vacuuming and rough treatment. Sticking with these dimensions will ensure your pad stays hidden, plus keeps the edges flat against the floor to prevent tripping. If you love your floors and your rugs as much as you love your furniture but worry that particularly heavy or often-moved pieces may scratch your floors or indent, mar, or tear your rugs, the right rug pad is your simple solution. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Keep reading to learn about some of the most important qualities to keep in mind when shopping for the best rug pads for your home. amzn_assoc_title = ""; * Note: Custom-cut rug pads cannot be returned. They are cheaper because they include filler ingredients like clay, which can leave a slight residue on your floors with long-term use. We chose the Mohawk Dual Surface Rug Pad as our best overall for its cushiony feel underfoot, its ability to effectively stay in place, and the endless amount of configurations available to suit a variety of rug sizes. This rug pad runs slightly more expensive than others on our list, but youre getting a high value for the price. Since this rug pad takes the form of individual squares, this product works really well in compact apartments since you can place them in a formation that fits your exact space. Probably not the kind of thing you want to be walking on every day! The rug pad you purchase should be 1 to 2 inches smaller than your rug on each side. Padding meant for wall-to-wall carpeting is generally incompatible with area rugs and is not recommended. It prolongs the life of your rug by taking strain off its fibers, as well as providing an extra layer of soundproofing and insulation. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; BobVila.com and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Our Eco-Plush rug pad is the last word in budget-friendly rug cushioning for engineered hardwood floors. It is available in three sizes and can be easily cut with scissors to accommodate smaller rugs. She joined the team in January 2022, but has worked for Dotdash Meredith since February 2021 working in production and writing commerce stories for Meredith legacy brands such as Real Simple, Martha Stewart Living, and People. We found it difficult to trim, so we recommend choosing your rug first and then opting for one of the 27 available sizes, which include multiple round options. Second, measure the length of the rug. Steer clear of most rubber, foam-backed, latex, vinyl, plastic-matted or non-ventilated rugs and padding. Our testers observed that many rug pads are known for either supreme cushioning or non-slip abilities, but this rug pad succeeds at both. However, spills and accidents left unattended can still cause damage to the rug on top, so you should try to clean these up as soon as possible. For an inexpensive and temporary option, you can use Rebond Padding made from recycled scraps of foam between 3/8 and 7/16 in thickness. This rug pad comes recommended by Joanna Mahserdjian, owner of Upstate Rug Supply, who says its durability makes it one of her favorite picks on the market. Annie Selke Solid Extra-Grip Rug Pad, The Best Affordable Rugs of 2022 for Your Style, Best for Pet Owners: Cushioned rug pads provide comfort and a little sound insulation. If youre in the market for a versatile rug pad that can work on multiple surfaces, consider the Crate &Barrel Multi-Surface Thick Rug Pad. Dont take the chance with this type of pad if youre not absolutely sure it wont react negatively with your floor finish. Engineered hardwood consists of a softwood or multi-ply core topped with a layer of solid wood. These pads will often be made with phthalates, a class of chemicals that US manufacturers are prohibited from using because they're toxic to humans and animals. It stayed in place most effectively with heavier rugs, coming up in the corners slightly with lighter ones. In order to effectively test the rug pads on this list, we placed each one under multiple rugs, varying in weight and pilelow, medium, and high. A quality rug pad is an easy and affordable way to anchor an area rug to an engineered hardwood floor and nip all these problems in the bud. amzn_assoc_region = "US"; They can be quite thin, so alone, they provide minimal cushioning. These pads are engineered to prevent staining and stripping on laminate floors and finishes. Get the Carpenter Spillguard rug pad on Amazon or at Walmart. Sonic Acoustics Non Slip Soundproof Rug Pad, Best Outdoor: The dense, needle-punched felt feels soft to the touch and provides cushioning and some sound insulation. We used the pads on different surfaces, including concrete, wood, and vinyl. The Lego test was also applied here. Material: Natural Rubber | Thickness: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Intended Use: Indoor | Floor Compatibility: Varies, I was happily impressed with the non-slip capabilities of this rug pad. Ultimately, the best rug pad for your home ensures that both your floors and your rug are protected from excess wear and tear. Material: Woven polyester scrim coated with PVC vinyl compound | Thickness: Not listed | Weight: Not listed | Intended Use: Indoor | Floor Compatibility: Varies. As a close runner-up, the Wayfair Basics Premium Non-Slip Dual Surface Rug Pad offers multi-surface usage, a non-slip surface, supportive cushioning, and can stand up to general wear and tear. Pictured here is an example of the irreversible damage they cause. Rubber rug pads are derived from rubber tree sap. Our testers noted that even when kicked and vacuumed, these rug pads didnt move, making them a good investment to prevent slips. The open weave design isnt particularly thick or cushioning. The textured rubber on the bottom helps keep the rug in place without damaging the floors. For all of these reasons and more, the Room&Board Natural Rubber Rug Pad is the best overall option for safety, cost, and effectiveness. They work well with thin rugs or in rooms with low clearance of doorways because they dont add significant height to your rug. These plastics "off-gas" chemicals that will discolor and damage your engineered hardwood's finish. Though not our best overall, the Wayfair Basics Premium Non-Slip Dual Surface Rug Pad came awfully close, which is why weve given it the runner-up spot. Plus, a non-slip rug pad will secure your area rug to your engineered wood floor so firmly that you can vacuum right over it like a carpet rather than having to lift it up every time you hoover. Some rug pads use a combination of materials to provide a variety of benefits. Before you choose the best rug pad for your home, consider these key factors. The Sonic Acoustics Non Slip Soundproof Rug Pad is advertised as absorbing noise, making this rug pad soundproof. While our testers were not able to test for this quality, reviewers confirm that these rug pads do help reduce sound in various living spaces. While testing the outdoor rug pad, we left it out for multiple days in different weather conditions. For this article, she reached out to a design expert and owner of a rug store, researched the different types of rug pads, and reviewed testing insights from our team to glean a full picture of these products. Weve tested popular options to report back on their quality and functionality. What are the best ways to care for and maintain rug pads? Our best overall pickRoom & Boards Natural Rubber Rug Padexcels in both of these lanes. The pad felt comfortable and stayed in place when used with both low- and high-pile rugs. This extra cushioning doesn't just provide a comfort boost, either. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Made from felt from unused carpet fibers, this thick rug pad contains zero chemicals, glues, or adhesives, meaning its non-toxic and odor-free. If youre concerned about possible slips, you can always get rug tape to help better secure the rug pads to the floor. Your first priority should be to ensure that the materials they are made from will not damage your flooring. It will also add a layer of cushioning under your rug to provide the extra bit of comfort that helps make a house a home. Carpenter Visco-Elastic Memory Foam Rug Pad with Spillguard DuPont Barrier, Best for Apartments: The 100 percent recycled felt of this rug pad cushions your steps, while a latex rubber bottom provides an excellent grip. When it did move, the rug went with it, reducing potential tripping hazards. This kind of grip not only ensures safety for you, but it also protects your floor from potential scratches if the rug were to move back and forth excessively. Our testers loved how cushioned this rug pad was, and noted that it would add a lot of padding if you have a decorative but otherwise thin rug on top. However, you should avoid area rugs with a synthetic rubber backing, as its only a matter of time until that deteriorates and damages your floor. productslearn more about A good rug pad will extend the life of your rug. Madison Yauger is a commerce staff writer for The Spruce focusing on home decor, bed, and bath content. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. While our testers noticed the rug did slip a little, this particular rug pad is designed to cushion rugs under pieces of furniture or heavy throw rugs, so slippage is not typically an issue. Therefore, you can easily blot spills from your rugs surface and not worry about the other side. You'll want a rug pad that's smaller than your rug by 1-2 inches on all sides. An investment in high-quality area rug pads appropriate for polyurethane-coated hardwood floors will pay for itself over time. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you buy a rug or runner. Finally, a rug pad smooths out the rug, boosting its visual appeal. Rug pads can also be used to soundproof a space, an especially important factor for those living in apartment buildings. A good rule of thumb is to choose a rug pad that's between 1/8 and 1/4 of an inch thick, with a thinner pad better for high traffic areas and a thicker pad better for larger, heavier rugs. Provide your retailer with these measurements and request that your rug pad be trimmed slightly less on each side for a proper fit. Depending on the material, rug pads can also add cushioning or even soundproofing. This rug pad is a top-tier option because it keeps the rug in place even with impacts like vacuuming and jumping on it. Area rug pads are frequently mislabeled or even misrepresented. Regular cleaning will help prevent the potential for mold buildup. Felt rug pads come in a range of thicknesses and densities. Material: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polyester | Thickness: Not listed | Weight: 0.95 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor | Floor Compatibility: Varies, "I was impressed by how well it 'hid' the Lego piecesI could definitely still feel them, but they weren't uncomfortable to step on. Others have compared the cushion effect of this rug pad to walking in your favorite sneaker while barefoot.. All three also come with a 10-year warranty, free delivery and returns. Then make sure they are dense enough to protect your floors from punctures and dents. Material: Latex, felt | Thickness: 0.25 inch | Weight: 15.75 pounds | Intended Use: Indoor or outdoor | Floor Compatibility: Hardwood, carpet, concrete, stone, marble, tile, laminate, linoleum. Even after I took a running start and leaped onto the rug pad and rug, neither of them moved!Katherine Louie, Tester and Senior Commerce Editor, Had to be trimmed to fit the same size rug. Material: Polyester felt, natural and synthetic rubber blend | Thickness: 0.25 inch | Weight: Not listed | Intended Use: Indoor or outdoor | Floor Compatibility: Varies. We recommend this option for outside use since it is made of PVC, which can emit VOCs. The -inch-thick pad cushions while it protects, too, adding cushy softness underfoot. First, measure the width of the rug. x 4 in. Many high-quality rugs are well cushioned on their own. Wayfair Basics Premium Non-Slip Dual Surface Rug Pad, Better Homes & Gardens Cushioned Non-Slip Area Rug Pad, Crate & Barrel Multi-Surface Thick Rug Pad, Carpenter Visco-Elastic Memory Foam Rug Pad with Spillguard DuPont Barrier, Sonic Acoustics Non Slip Soundproof Rug Pad, Wayfair Basics Deluxe Grip Outdoor Non-Slip Rug Pad, Room & Board Natural Rubber Rug Pad at Roomandboard.com, Wayfair Basics Premium Non-Slip Dual Surface Rug Pad at Wayfair, Better Homes & Gardens Cushioned Non-Slip Area Rug Pad at Walmart, Crate & Barrel Multi-Surface Thick Rug Pad at Crate & Barrel, Annie Selke Solid Extra-Grip Rug Pad at Annieselke.com, Carpenter Visco-Elastic Memory Foam Rug Pad with Spillguard DuPont Barrier at Amazon, Sonic Acoustics Non Slip Soundproof Rug Pad at Amazon, Best Overall: When shopping for a rug pad, some may consider whether the product is made from eco-friendly materials. our process. Material: Rubber | Thickness: 5.28 inches | Weight: 3.16 pounds | Intended Use: Varies | Floor Compatibility: Hard floors. The best rug pads keep your area rugs from sliding and bunching and make your home safer. When youre walking around your home barefoot, its more comfortable when the floors are soft. Most rug pads come in standard rug sizes that you can trim down to fit your rug. They also permanently discolor hardwood floors. Thinner rug pads work well with small rugs and runners that just need to stay in place. Rug Pad Grey 9 ft. x 12 ft. Rug Pad, Ultra Premium Eco-Friendly Thick Non-Slip Felt 8 ft. x 10 ft. Rug Pad, Stay N' Place 4 in. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Dual Surface Rug Pad, 6 ft. x 8 ft. 5 lb. RUGPADUSAs Nature Grip rug pad is made from 100 percent natural rubber and organic jutebreathable materials that help ward off moisture and mold. A rug pad can be beneficial on carpet when heavy furniture is sitting on top of the rug. Rugs of a medium thickness pair well with thick rug pads that add cushioning, hold them in place, and provide additional soundproofing. But a thick rug pad under a heavy rug can create a truly luxurious feel. It effectively grips to the floor, even in the corners. Here are all of our top picks for the best rug pads on the market. (Read about PVC below.) Rug pads keep rugs in place so that the corners and edges dont curl up. Check with the retailer to ensure the rebond does not contain Butylated hydroxytoluene (Bht) which is sometimes used as a flame retardant. Madison has been writing in the lifestyle space for five years, with over 120 bylines at Real Simple, Martha Stewart Living, People, and more. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. amzn_assoc_design = "in_content"; Durahold Plus is recommended by hardwood floor manufacturers Bruce and Shaw & Mohawk for use on their floors. But thinner, less expensive rugs can usually benefit from a cushioned pad. It is also available in a -inch version for those seeking extra cushioning. All Rights Reserved. Theyre also useful in rooms where your rug is not held in place by heavy furniture. Made with visco-elastic memory foam, this rug pad uses Spillguard Moisture Barrier technology to protect your floor from water damage. By Savannah Sher and Kristen Mosier | Updated Mar 28, 2022 10:39 AM. The best rug pad for you will depend on the style of rug and the purpose you want the rug pad to serve. For the test on the Spillguard, we poured a cup of water on the rug pad and let it sit for 1 hour. Rug pads like the Mohawk Ultra Premium Rug Pad can facilitate that. Common rug pad materials include PVC, an affordable option, rubber, which grips the rug and holds it in place while providing extra cushioning, and/or felt, which is better for carpeting or rugs anchored by furniture because it doesn't provide much grip. Rubber is ideal for outdoors and in areas that tend to get wet like kitchens and bathrooms. We offer live, expert advice for our customers 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The following top picks consider the features described above, including material, cushioning, grip, and thickness. Many unsuspecting homeowners end up with stained, severely discolored floors due to a chemical reaction between the rug pad material and the polyurethanefinish. If you're looking for a rug pad that provides extra cushioning, thickness definitely matters. The Best Home Gym Floors for Extra Cushion, The Best Stair Tread Carpets for a Safe, Stylish Home, The 11 Best Slippers of 2022, Tested by the Spruce, The Best Shelf Liners to Protect Your Shelves and Drawers, We Tested the Best Mops That Will Leave Your Floors Spotless, The Best Engaging Toys for 3-Year-Old Girls, How to Pick the Best Area Rug Pads for Your Home, These Are the Best Sponge Mops to Make Your Floors Sparkle, We Tested the Best Upright VacuumsHere Are Our Favorites, We Tested the Best Steam Cleaners for Freshening up Your Space, We Tested the Best Clothing Racks for Extra Storage. After a non-slip rug pad that provides plenty of cushioning? 100% felt pads are a great option for adding cushion. Due to the natural rubber material, this rug pad grips the floor and stays in place. Outdoor rugs have their own set of challenges in terms of needs and upkeep, and thats where the Wayfair Basics Deluxe Grip Outdoor Non-Slip Rug Pad comes in handy. Overall, it's best not to go over 1/2-inch thick. Lastly, do not use a stiff pad with hard cleats or grippers. amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "Durahold Plus(TM) Rug Pads"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; But not this one. Be sure to double-check the sizes of both your rug and the rug pad of your choice before making any purchases. Luckily, non-slip rug pads are an easy and affordable fix to this problem. In total, she has over 120 bylines across 20 local, national, and international publications.