Section

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! 

Section

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!

Mohawk Home Dual Surface Felt and Latex Non Slip Rug Pad

View rug pad

Natural Home Rugs Century Non Slip Rug Pad

View rug pad

Rug Pad USA Super Lock Natural Rubber Rug Pad

View rug pad

Recent Rug Journal articles

Top 5 Rugs from January 2021

This collection features a lot of throw rugs and runners, which are perfect for small spaces or as accent pieces. It's always hard to select our favorites from these Moroccan rugs. After much consideration, these are the ones that make the top of the list.

View Details

Designer Crush: Black Artists + Designers Guild's Malene Barnett

We are a proud supporter of the Black Artists + Designers Guild. Find out more about the founder of this incredible organization, Malene Barnett and learn more about Ms. Barnett's independent textile practice. We're big fans!

View Details

Top 5 Rugs of the Fall 2020 collection

Check out our roundup of the top five Moroccan Rugs from the Fall 2020 collection. We also include a sneak peek at the new Moroccan rugs that we just got in stock in our Los Angeles showroom.

View Details

Return to the Rug Journal

Read more

Browse articles by topic