When it comes to buying a rug, what lies underneath is just as important as the rug itself. In fact, it can make all the difference, especially with inexpensive rugs. After all, the main reason we buy rugs is for that cozy, comfortable feeling. And the right rug pad can enhance that comfort and make any rug feel more luxurious.
Before you rush to purchase a rug pad, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about the location where the rug will be placed and the type of flooring it will go on. Will it be on tile, hardwood, carpet, or vinyl? Each surface requires a different type of rug pad, and I'll guide you through the best options for each.
Best Rug Pads for Wood Floors
If you're placing a rug on a wood floor, thickness is crucial. Thicker pads provide the perfect amount of cushioning to make your rug feel plush on hard surfaces. However, be cautious of budget-friendly PVC rug pads. They might seem like a bargain, but in my experience, they can rub off onto your floor, making them not worth the price. Instead, opt for a felted rug pad like the one pictured below. These pads are available in various sizes and feel wonderfully plush underfoot.
Caption: Felted rug pads provide optimal comfort and protection for wood floors.
Best Rug Pads for Carpet
When placing a rug on top of carpet, comfort isn't the primary concern. What matters most is the rug's staying power. For this purpose, I highly recommend the Grip rug pads. They work exceptionally well on top of carpet or when layering rugs. These pads come in various sizes and have a low profile, ensuring that your rug stays in place.
Caption: Grip rug pads provide excellent grip for rugs on carpet.
Please note that these rug pads are not suitable for wood floors. If you decide to move the rug to a wood floor, it's best not to use this particular pad. Alternatively, you can use sticky rug tape on the edges, but be cautious as it can be challenging to remove the tape without leaving residue on the floor.
Best Rug Pads for Bathrooms
In bathrooms, preventing a rug from sliding is crucial, as falling on hard floors is far from pleasant. That's why you need a rug pad with a strong grip, especially since bathroom rugs are often lightweight and washable. However, double-sided sticky tape isn't the best option for bathrooms, as it tends to stick to the rug's edges when washing. Instead, consider a sticky rug pad like the one shown below. It provides a reliable grip on tile, marble, or any other slick surface.
Caption: Sticky rug pads offer a secure grip for bathroom rugs.
Do You Need a Rug Pad for Outdoor Rugs?
The necessity of a rug pad for outdoor rugs depends on where you plan to place them. While it's beneficial to have something that holds an outdoor rug in place, keep in mind that outdoor environments are often filled with dust and dirt. To minimize these issues, I recommend using sticky corner pads, as they pick up the least amount of dirt. These corner grips are affordable and can be easily replaced whenever they get dirty.
Choosing the Right Size Rug Pad
Now that you know the best rug pad options for different floor types, let's talk about choosing the right size. Felted rug pads come in various sizes designed to fit most common rug sizes. To ensure that the rug pad never shows, it should be at least 1.5 inches smaller than your area rug on each side. PVC pads and thinner options can be easily cut, but thicker pads may require an exacto knife.
Here are the recommended rug pad sizes for commonly used rug dimensions:
- 8x10 rug: Pad size should be 7'9" x 9'9" (three inches smaller than the rug).
- 6x9 rug: Pad size should be 5'9" x 8'9".
- 5x8 rug: Pad size should be 4'9" x 7'9".
Next time you buy a rug, don't forget to invest in a suitable rug pad. Besides keeping your rug in place, it will provide added softness and comfort underfoot. Happy rug shopping!
Before you go, if you enjoyed this post, you might be interested in learning about Ruggable's new cushioned rug pad.
Related posts:
- There’s Only ONE Good Way to Stop Rugs From Slipping on Your Hardwood Floors
- Ultimate Buying Guide for Area Rugs: Getting the Right Size and Material
- Pros and Cons of Cotton Rugs
