Things to keep in mind when buying a rug pad

March 22, 2020

The benefits of rug pads are numerous. They allow your rug to lay flat and will keep people and pets from slipping on the rug. In addition, they protect your floor from nicks and scratches.

But not all rug pads are cut form the same proverbial cloth. A short google search provides dozens of options and sometimes it's hard to know where to begin. Rug pads mostly differ in density and the materials used.

Most folks who are shopping for rug pads want something that is durable, stops rug slippage, adds cushioning, protects hardwood floors, and extends the life of the rug. If you choose the right pad, you may easily accomplish all of these goals. After researching rug pads and talking to clients over the last 10 years, I've compiled this list of my top three suggestions for rug pads.

In the meantime, let's look at why the choice of rug pad material should matter in your decision-making process!

Rug Pad Materials

Some of the cheaper rug pads are made from vinyls which include PVC (polyvinyl chloride), an unbreathable petroleum-based chemical. Rugs placed on these types of rug pads will have a hard time absorbing and releasing moisture and the outcome could be that you damage your floors and the finish.

For folks living in more humid climates, it is especially important to use a rug pad that resists mold and mildew and breathes appropriately. Keep your eyes out for rug pads made of all-natural-materials such 100% pure rubber and soybean oil.

With smooth flooring, like hardwood, linoleum, or tile, it's important to get a no-slip rug pad - I would recommend either a felt pad with rubberized grips or a thin grip-only pad. The felt pad is the thicker of the two options and adds extra cushioning underfoot, making for a more comfortable experience. The thicker felt pads have added benefits of offering thermal- and sound-insulation. These felt pads with rubberized grips tend to cost more but may be worth the benefit and peace of mind of keeping your floors safe.

How much should I expect to spend on a rug pad?

Rug pads vary based on their thickness and the types of materials used. The petroleum-based tend to be cheaper, as are the thinner grip-only pads. You can expect to pay a premium for the thicker felt-pads and the pads that are made of all natural materials.

Rug pads, much like rugs, are sold with a cost per square foot. You can find some that are as cheap as $2 a square foot, whereas the more expensive, premium pads may set you back $6 per square foot.

We can help you source a rug pad

For years we've searched for the best rug pads and we've finally found it, much closer to home than we imagined! These rug pads come from our favorite rug doctors, Rug Ideas in Van Nuys. They supply this pad and swear by it and now, after using it on our rugs and getting customer reviews back, we can safely say, this is the one!

It's eco-friendly, made from non petroleum-based products; it keeps the rug from moving around and adds a good deal of cushioning below your feet. Over time, these pads will not damage your hardwood floors like some of the cheaper brands might.

If you're interested in getting a rug pad to protect your rug and your floors and you'd like to explore these premium pads, reach out below and we'll respond with a quote for the pad!

Off the Shelf Rug Pads

Alternatively, if you're looking to buy a rug pad online, we've reviewed a number of different brands. Read our review of top rug pads here or link directly to specific rug pads below!

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