Why You Need a Rug Pad
If you're wondering if you should get a rug pad when you buy a rug, the answer is always yes! Some benefits of using a rug pad include:
- Prolonging the life of your rug
- Protecting your floors
- Preventing slips & falls
- Providing additional comfort & quiet
Keep reading to learn more about rug pads and how to choose the right one for you.
Prolong the Life of Your Rug
A rug pad provides a foundation for your rug, reduces wear, and prevents holes and fraying around the edges. The density of the pad preserves the pile of your rug and helps it be more resilient in springing back. A rug pad also minimizes friction, making vacuuming easier.
Protect Your Floors
Have kids or pets? A spill-resistant rug pad can safeguard spills from seeping through the rug and causing damage to the floor beneath. A rug pad will also protect wood flooring from potential scratches caused by the rug backing.
Prevent Falling Accidents
Slipping, tripping, and falling, oh my! A rug pad acts as a grip and holds your rug in place to prevent sliding. It also keeps a rug from curling or developing wrinkles, which can also be safety hazards.
Provide Additional Comfort and Quiet
Your rug will feel extra plush underfoot with an additional layer of cushioning between the rug and the floor. A rug pad absorbs the impact of feet and noise, helping you move toward a peaceful, easy feeling in your home.
What's the Right Rug Pad for You?
Now that you plan on taking advantage of rug pads, it's all about picking the right one for you. There are two key things to consider -- size and type.
Choose the Right Rug Pad Size
Ideally, a rug pad should be slightly smaller than your rug. This allows the edge of the rug to taper to the floor, preventing a tripping hazard. It also ensures that the rug pad won't be seen. Here's a simple formula to follow: a rug pad should be one inch less on all four sides of the rug, or two inches less for each dimension. Most rug pads come in standard rug sizes, but can be easily trimmed if needed.
Choose Your Rug Pad Type
The best rug pads are made from natural materials. Natural rubber and felt are the most popular choices. They won't damage your flooring, whether it's hardwood, vinyl, laminate, carpet, or tile. Synthetic materials are available, but they can cause yellowing or stick to your floor.
Home Decor Specialist
Cindy loves furnishing her new home with treasures she finds. When she's not pondering her next decorating move, she loves spending time with her family, baking, entertaining, and watching anything from the BBC.