Rugs are an affordable, stylish alternative to other flooring options. Easier to clean and change than carpeting, they allow you to express your personal style without the fear of a large, long-term commitment. Still, despite their budget-friendly nature and versatility, rugs need to be protected—that’s where rug pads come in.
Because we’re confident that you’ll love the rugs you purchase from us, we also stock all of the accessories you need to keep your products in tip-top shape. Rug pads are a crucial part of extending the life of your rug, preserving your floors, and even protecting against the occasional slip-and-fall, which makes them especially helpful when paired with rugs for kids’ bedrooms. Before you start browsing our large collection of rug pads here are some details that’ll help you find your perfect match.
Rug Pads: The Key to Floor Care and Maintenance
Rug pads are a kind of insuranc—only this plan doesn’t come with any complicated paperwork or expensive premiums! Instead, you’ll be able to protect the things you care about and add a little extra comfort underfoot. There’s never been a cozier way to care for your floors.
What does floor care even mean?
Some people don’t even consider floor care when they purchase a rug, but rugs are actually your first line of defense when it comes to keeping your floors looking great. Alternatively, if your floor already has some damage, a rug can help disguise it.
A rug may not be enough to stop dents in the floor due to heavy furnishings (even if you place all legs of your furniture on top of an area rug), but by investing in a rug pad, you can provide an extra layer of protection. This additional layer of material can make rugs feel softer, making them an excellent place to rest your feet or even sit and play a board game.
Is it necessary to have a rug pad?
Ultimately, the decision to buy a rug pad is up to you. Some rugs come with protective backings or are made from slip-resistant fabrics, but the addition of a rug pad can still bring major value to the room. They help hold the rug in place and even help extend the life of your rug by absorbing shock with every step, lessening the degree to which the fibers are crushed. The myriad of benefits of adding a rug pad to your set-up speak for themselves.
What are the benefits of having a rug pad?
Besides the aforementioned protection of your floors, rug pads can also shield your floor from dust, dirt, and other harmful particles. The base layer a rug pad offers also helps your rug to consistently lay flat, mitigating the risk of a wrinkled, creased, or bunched-up look.
Rug pads will also help keep your rug from becoming a tripping hazard. By keeping the piece flat to the floor, rug pads allow even your toddlers to navigate rug-filled rooms. Without a pad, your rug’s corners can easily flip up and cause falls. Worst of all, those falls won’t be broken by a pad-backed, cushiony surface.
Finding the Right Rug Pad for Your Rug
If you’ve decided that a rug pad is the right move for you, it’s time to find the right one. There are many options for rug accessories, made from many different materials and ready to accommodate rugs of all shapes and sizes. As you begin your shopping journey, here are some things to keep in mind.
Should a rug pad be the same size as the rug?
In general, your rug pad should fit the dimensions of your rug as closely as possible. Rug pads that are smaller than your rugs will fail to secure the edges, a key detail in preventing falls. Pads that are too large, however, will stick out from beyond your rug. This is unsightly and can distract from your rug’s pattern.
If you can’t find a rug pad that meets your rug’s dimensions, it’s always best to buy bigger than necessary. Unlike rugs, pads are made from materials that are easy to cut and reshape to fit your needs. Though rug pads are very durable, their rubber- and fiber-based make-up allows you to make these customizations with a simple pair of scissors.
What is the best rug pad for hardwood floors?
There are two primary types of rug pads: those that prioritize adding comfort, and those that focus on providing a non-slip experience. If you add a rug to hardwood-floor sections of your house, there is a chance that they could create a slippery surface. It is wise to opt for rug pads that are backed by rubber, synthetic gels, or other grippy materials.
For carpeted spaces, woven comfort pads are a great choice. These pieces cling to both your rug and the carpet, helping the top layer to stay flat. They are also typically thicker and can offer a little extra cushion to each step. This is especially nice for living rooms, where you may choose to lounge or play games on your floors.
Considering whether or not your rug’s location is a high-traffic area can also inform your choice. If people are likely to be rushing back and forth over your piece, you’ll want to make sure it’s backed with a pad that will keep it firmly against the ground. In lower-traffic areas, less formal corner grippers are usually enough to keep your rug looking nice and in place.
What is the best rug pad for pets?
Many “pet-friendly” rugs do not come with built-in rug pads. Although beloved pets can offer their own forms of comfort, you don’t have to choose between a quality rug pad and your precious animals. Many rug pads exist that are perfectly animal-friendly.
In particular, we recommend the pet-friendly, Luxury Vinyl Plank Safe Rug Pad. This product has an embossed backing that prevents accidents from leaking through your rug and reaching the floor.
With added protections and added comfort, there is no reason not to treat yourself (and your floors!) to a rug pad from RugsUSA.
