While rearranging our living room, we discovered the importance of selecting the top rug pad to safeguard our hardwood floors and prevent our rugs from shifting.
It's no easy task to find the right rug pad that strikes the perfect balance between grip and floor protection. After searching high and low, we've compiled a list of the 15 best rug pads on the market.
But before you rush to make a choice, there are some vital factors to consider when selecting the ideal rug pad that we'll uncover in this discussion.
Key Takeaways
- Rug pads provide durable comfort cushioning and superior flooring protection, preserving the lifespan of rugs and protecting floors from scratches and damage.
- They offer plush cushioning, non-slip grip, insulation, and sound absorption, adding comfort and reducing noise and impact.
- Different types of rug pads, such as felt, rubber, PVC, and natural fiber, cater to various needs, including added cushioning, non-slip grip, durability, moisture resistance, and eco-friendly options.
- Factors to consider when choosing a rug pad include material and thickness, customizable sizing options, compatibility with flooring type, non-slip properties, durability, ease of cleaning, size and shape compatibility with the rug, and ease of installation and maintenance.
Mohawk Home Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper, 5 x 8 Size
The Mohawk Home Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper, 5 x 8 size, is the ideal choice for anyone seeking durable comfort cushioning and superior flooring protection. This rug pad offers a perfect blend of plush cushioning, non-slip grip, insulation, and sound absorption. Available in three thickness options, 1/4, 3/8”, and 1/2”, it can be customized to fit any size or shape.
The Green Label Plus Certification by The Carpet & Rug Institute ensures its quality. With a latex rubber backing, it provides additional grip to prevent slipping, sliding, bunching, and wrinkles. This pad is suitable for both carpet and hard surface flooring, and can be easily trimmed to fit any area rug size or shape.
The Mohawk Home Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper truly delivers on its promises of durability, functionality, and protection for your floors.
Best For: This rug pad is best for individuals looking for durable comfort cushioning and superior flooring protection for their area rugs.
Pros:
- Provides plush cushioning, non-slip grip, insulation, and sound absorption
- Can be customized to fit any size or shape
- Suitable for both carpet and hard surface flooring
Cons:
- Initial chemical smell that dissipates after installation
Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper 8 x 10 Feet
For those seeking a durable and extra thick rug pad that provides reliable grip and protection on hard surface floors, the Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper 8 x 10 Feet is an excellent choice. Its signature grip keeps rugs in place, preventing them from sliding and protecting floors from wear and tear, high heels, and kids playing.
The open grid construction prevents scratches, allows air circulation, and prevents dust from settling under the rug. Customers have praised its effectiveness in preventing rug movement, although some have experienced a loss of adhesion over time. This pad can be trimmed with household scissors for custom sizes and shapes, and it's suitable for hard floors, tiles, and laminate surfaces.
Additionally, it provides extra cushion for comfort and is easy to install.
Best For: Those looking for a durable and extra thick rug pad with reliable grip and protection on hard surface floors.
Pros:
- Signature grip to keep rugs in place
- Provides extra cushion for comfort
- Open grid construction prevents scratches and allows air circulation
Cons:
- Some customers have experienced a loss of adhesion over time
Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Gripper for Area Rugs and Hardwood Floors
With its nonslip grip and shock-absorbing features, this rug pad is ideal for anyone seeking to protect their area rugs and hardwood floors. The non-slip rug gripper prevents shifting of the rug and holds it in place while vacuuming or moving furniture. It's suitable for hard or slick surfaces like tile or hardwood, thanks to its nonslip grip with small clear dots.
Additionally, the rug pad prevents damage to the rug backing, absorbs shock from foot traffic, and prolongs the rug's longevity. It also protects floors from scratches and color transfer, while preventing grime and dirt accumulation. The extra-thick felted pad provides added cushioning, offering a softer and plusher feel while reducing noise.
Furthermore, the rug padding can be easily trimmed to fit rug sizes and has firm, smooth edges that can be cut with household scissors.
Best For: Homeowners looking to protect their area rugs and hardwood floors from shifting and damage.
Pros:
- Prevents shifting of the rug
- Absorbs shock from foot traffic
- Reduces noise
Cons:
- May not be suitable for all rug sizes
Ninja Rug Pad Gripper for Hardwood Floors, 8×10 FT
Ideal for hardwood floors, the Ninja Rug Pad Gripper provides maximum protection and slip-resistant grip for your 8×10 FT area rugs and carpets. The non-adhesive, lightweight, and durable construction ensures that your rugs stay in place without causing damage to your hardwood floors.
The ultra-strong grip prevents bunching and sliding, while the open weave construction allows for easy vacuuming and helps floors to breathe. Additionally, the pad adds cushion under the carpet, protecting it from everyday wear and tear, scuffs, and scratches.
The versatile design also allows for trimming to achieve a custom fit, and it can be used for various purposes such as adding grip to kitchen cabinets or drawers, preventing slipping futons, couch cushions, and keeping mattresses in place.
With its positive customer reviews and affordable price point, the Ninja Rug Pad Gripper is an excellent choice for ensuring the safety and stability of your rugs on hardwood floors.
Best For: Homeowners looking to keep their area rugs and carpets safe and in place on hardwood floors without causing damage.
Pros:
- Provides slip-resistant grip for rugs and carpets
- Adds cushion under the carpet, protecting it from wear and tear
- Versatile uses, such as adding grip to kitchen cabinets or drawers
Cons:
- Not suitable for use on carpet, vinyl, lacquered, acrylic, natural stone, porous, or refinished surfaces
RUGPADUSA Dual Surface Rug Pad – 9×12 – 1/4 Inch Thick – Felt + Rubber – Non-Slip Backing
The RUGPADUSA Dual Surface Rug Pad offers an effective solution for protecting floors and rugs. It has strong gripping power and a non-abrasive material to prevent slipping and scratches. The 1/4-inch thickness provides durable cushioning for soundproofing and insulation. The non-slip backing keeps rugs in place without wrinkling or sliding.
One great feature is that it's safe for all floors and won't stain or damage hard surfaces. The pad is also odourless, low VOC, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for indoor use. It adds extra comfort without bulking and prevents moisture buildup.
Another reassuring aspect is that it's made in the USA and comes with a total satisfaction guarantee. With positive customer reviews and a high rating, the RUGPADUSA Dual Surface Rug Pad seems like a reliable investment for floor protection and rug stability.
Best For: Those looking for a durable and non-abrasive rug pad with strong gripping power and soundproofing benefits.
Pros:
- Strong gripping power to prevent slipping, sliding, and wrinkling
- Durable cushioning for soundproofing and insulation
- Non-abrasive to protect rugs and floors from scratches
Cons:
- Some feedback about the need to trim the pad to fit the rug
RUGPADUSA Eco-Plush Luxurious Cushioned Rug Pad (8×10, 1/2 Thick)
Looking for a rug pad that provides luxurious cushioning and unparalleled floor protection? The RUGPADUSA Eco-Plush Luxurious Cushioned Rug Pad might just be what you need. This 8×10 pad, 1/2 inch thick and made of 100% felt, adds a layer of comfort to your rugs while safeguarding your floors. Keep in mind that it's not non-slip, so pairing it with a non-slip pad might be a good idea, especially for heavy rugs or those not anchored by furniture.
Some customers found it slightly smaller than advertised, so double-check your rug measurements before purchasing. While it may require some effort to trim the pad to fit your rug perfectly, many customers praise its thickness and quality. Overall, it's a top choice for those looking for a plush cushioned rug pad that also protects their floors.
Best For: Those looking for a plush cushioned rug pad that also protects their floors.
Pros:
- Adds luxurious cushioning and comfort to rugs
- Acts as a barrier between contaminants and floors
- Preserves the lifespan of rugs
Cons:
- Not non-slip, may require additional measures to prevent slipping
Gorilla Grip Extra Strong Rug Pad Gripper for Hard Floors (2×3 FT)
For those seeking a reliable solution to keep their area rugs secure and protected on hard floors, the Gorilla Grip Extra Strong Rug Pad Gripper offers a sturdy and slip-resistant option. This 2×3 FT pad is designed with dual-sided grip to prevent rug movement, reducing bunching and sliding. It not only keeps the rug in place but also provides superior floor protection, allowing the floor to breathe and protecting it from damage. The pad is also reversible and vacuum-friendly, making maintenance hassle-free. Constructed from premium materials, it ensures long-lasting quality and adds extra comfort while reducing noise. Customer reviews have been largely positive, praising its effectiveness in keeping rugs in place. However, some users have mentioned the need for additional corner grippers to prevent slight movement.
Best For: Those looking for a reliable rug pad gripper to keep their area rugs secure and protected on hard floors.
Pros:
- Dual-sided grip prevents rug movement
- Provides superior floor protection
- Adds extra comfort and reduces noise
Cons:
- Some users may need additional corner grippers to prevent slight movement
RUGPADUSA Basics 8×10 1/4 Thick Felt Rug Pad
When selecting a rug pad, the RUGPADUSA Basics 8×10 1/4 Thick Felt Rug Pad stands out as a top choice. It offers a plush feel, dense fiber, and eco-friendly features. This 100% felt pad provides a protective cushioning for all floor types, including hardwoods, and is made in the USA. The dense fiber construction not only adds comfort under rugs but also protects floors from damage without marking or staining floor finishes. With its eco-friendly and high-quality features, this rug pad is an excellent option for an environmentally conscious home.
It also offers noise reduction and insulation benefits, making it a versatile choice. Moreover, customer reviews praise its exceptional quality, with many noting its thickness and ease of customization. For an effective, durable, and environmentally friendly rug pad, the RUGPADUSA Basics 8×10 1/4 Thick Felt Rug Pad is a highly recommended choice.
Best For: Those seeking a high-quality and environmentally friendly rug pad that provides protective cushioning for all floor types, including hardwoods.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and made in the USA
- Provides protective cushioning and noise reduction benefits
- Doesn't mark or stain floor finishes
Cons:
- May require cutting to fit the rug size
Grip-It Non-Slip Rug Pad for Hardwood Floors (3 x 5 ft)
The Grip-It Non-Slip Rug Pad for Hardwood Floors (3 x 5 ft) is an essential choice for anyone seeking reliable non-slip protection and sound dampening for their area rugs on hardwood surfaces.
This rectangular pad, made of polyvinyl chloride, effectively keeps area rugs in place, providing solid surface coverage, sound dampening, and insulation.
It protects floor surfaces from dirt, dust, and debris while preventing shifting and sliding of the rugs, reducing the risk of slips, falls, and floor damage.
The pad is hand washable in mild detergent, rinse, and air dry, and it comes with a 10-year guarantee for non-slip properties with proper maintenance.
Customers have praised its effectiveness in keeping rugs in place and preventing slipping, and its capability to add cushioning and prevent slippage on various types of rugs, including jute and vintage rag rugs.
Best For: This rug pad is best for individuals looking for reliable non-slip protection and sound dampening for their area rugs on hardwood surfaces.
Pros:
- Keeps area rugs in place effectively
- Provides sound dampening and insulation for the floor
- Protects floor surfaces from dirt, dust, and debris
Cons:
- Some customers have concerns about potential adhesion damage to hardwood floors over time
Mohawk Home 8 x 10 1/4 Rug Pad 100% Felt Protective Cushion
With its plush felt cushion and customizable sizing, the Mohawk Home 8 x 10 1/4 Rug Pad 100% Felt Protective Cushion offers long-lasting protection for flooring, making it an ideal choice for those seeking durability and customizable support for their area rugs. The three thickness options cater to various needs, and it's recommended for securing heavy items, preventing creasing and wrinkling, and extending the life of rugs.
While some customers faced sliding issues, these were mostly resolved with additional grip tape or rubber rug grippers. The pad received positive feedback for its comfort, quality, and durability, with customers expressing satisfaction with its performance. To further enhance its effectiveness, additional accessories like grip tape or rubber rug grippers are recommended.
Some concerns included misleading images, slippery corners, and difficulty in cutting the pad, but overall, the Mohawk Home 8 x 10 1/4 Rug Pad 100% Felt Protective Cushion garnered praise for its thickness and durability.
Best For: Those seeking long-lasting protection for their flooring and customizable support for their area rugs.
Pros:
- Plush felt cushion with three thickness options
- Extends the life of rugs by preventing creasing and wrinkling
- Customizable sizing for various needs
Cons:
- Some customers experienced sliding issues
BALEINE Non Slip Rug Pad for Hardwood Floors (9×12)
If you're looking for a rug pad that provides exceptional grip and stability on hardwood floors, BALEINE Non Slip Rug Pad (9×12) is the best choice. This rug pad offers optimal cushioning and comfort, while its extra thick non-slip mat under the carpet ensures that your rug stays in place. The durable PVC construction makes it long-lasting, and its easy customization and cleaning add to its appeal.
With dimensions of 144L x 108W and a weight of 8.12 pounds, it's suitable for use with laminate, tile, and hardwood surfaces. Customer feedback has been largely positive, with many praising its ability to keep rugs in place and prevent damage to hardwood floors. However, some users have mentioned issues with its grip.
Overall, the BALEINE Non Slip Rug Pad presents itself as a reliable choice for protecting your floors and keeping your rugs secure.
Best For: Those seeking a durable and effective rug pad for keeping their area rugs in place on hardwood floors.
Pros:
- Exceptional grip and stability
- Optimal cushioning and comfort
- Easy to customize and clean
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with grip and stability
RUGPADUSA 100% Felt 9×12 Rug Pad for Hardwood Floors
Ideal for hardwood floor protection, the RUGPADUSA 100% Felt 9×12 Rug Pad offers durable cushioning and insulation while being non-abrasive and hypoallergenic. With 28oz of felt per square yard, it provides soundproofing and insulation, enhancing comfort underneath rugs without adding bulk. Made in the USA with 100% recycled felt, this odorless and low VOC rug pad is safe for all floor types, including hardwood, laminate, stone, and tile. It's chemical and adhesive-free, ensuring it won't stain, strip, or damage hard surface flooring.
However, it's important to note that it's not a non-slip rug pad and should be used with large rugs anchored down by furniture. Customers have praised its thickness, quality, and ease of use, making it a popular choice for protecting both rugs and floors.
Best For: Customers seeking a durable and hypoallergenic rug pad that offers soundproofing and insulation for hardwood floors.
Pros:
- Durable cushioning with 28oz of felt per square yard
- Adds soundproofing and insulation
- Non-abrasive to protect rugs and floors from scratches
Cons:
- Not a non-slip rug pad, should be used with large rugs anchored down by furniture
FestiCorp Non Slip Rug Pads 8×10 Ft
The FestiCorp Non Slip Rug Pads 8×10 Ft is an excellent choice for those seeking a non-toxic and secure solution to protect their floors and keep rugs in place. This rug pad is designed with an open grid weave technology, allowing for air flow and easy vacuuming. It provides extra grip to hold rugs in place, preventing sliding or bunching, and adds thickness and cushion to rugs, protecting floors from scratches and damage. Made with premium PVC material, it's non-toxic and safe for health.
Suitable for use on hardwood, laminate, concrete, tile, and marble floors, it can also be used for futons, couch cushions, mattresses, sofa covers, and shelf/drawer protection. With easy installation and removal and the ability to be trimmed to fit custom sizes, it offers convenience and versatility.
Best For: Customers looking for a non-toxic and versatile rug pad that provides extra grip and cushion for rugs on hard surface floors.
Pros:
- Non-toxic and safe for health
- Provides extra grip to hold rugs in place
- Can be used on various hard surfaces and can be trimmed to fit custom sizes
Cons:
- Can only be used on flat hard surfaces
Non Slip Rug Pad for 8 X 10 Hard Surface Floors
With its extra strong grip and thick padding, the non-slip rug pad for 8 x 10 hard surface floors offers reliable floor protection and prevents rugs from sliding or bunching. This high-quality carpet pad is designed to withstand the weight of furniture without marring wood floors, making it a durable and practical choice for any room.
Its versatility allows for use both indoors and outdoors, and it can be easily trimmed to fit non-standard rug sizes. Customers have praised its grip, cushioning, and reasonable price, emphasizing its ability to provide a secure base for pets and prevent slipping. While some mention size discrepancies, overall satisfaction with the product remains high.
For those seeking a long-lasting, non-slip rug pad that truly delivers on its promises, this product comes highly recommended.
Best For: Those seeking a durable and reliable non-slip rug pad for hard surface floors.
Pros:
- Extra strong grip and thick padding
- Provides extra cushioning and comfort
- Versatile for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons:
- Some customers mention size discrepancies
16 PCS Non-Slip Carpet Pads for Hardwood Floors and Tile
For those seeking a reliable solution to keep their area rugs in place on hardwood floors and tile, the 16 PCS Non-Slip Carpet Pads offer a durable and easy-to-use option. These double-sided adhesive pads are designed to keep corners flat and prevent rugs from moving on hard surfaces. They're reusable, washable, and won't leave a sticky residue or damage your floors.
Each pad measures 3.15 by 2.36 inches, and the set includes a total of 16 pads. To use them, simply clean the floor and back of the carpet before affixing the pads. Press firmly to ensure a secure grip and prevent sliding. It's important to keep the contact surfaces clean and dry for optimal adhesion.
While customers have reported mixed experiences with long-term adhesion, many find these pads effectively prevent rugs from slipping without causing damage to their hardwood floors.
Best For: Customers looking for a reusable and washable solution to keep area rugs in place on hardwood floors and tile.
Pros:
- Easy to use and durable
- Keeps corners flat and prevents rugs from moving
- Reusable and washable without leaving a sticky residue
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on long-term adhesion
Factors to Consider When Choosing Rug Pad

When choosing a rug pad, we need to consider the material and thickness. The compatibility with our floor type is another important factor to take into account. Additionally, customizable sizing options are worth considering.
Non-slip properties, durability, and care are also important factors to consider when choosing a rug pad. These points will help us make an informed decision to protect our floors and keep our rugs in place.
Material and Thickness
As consumers, we should carefully consider the material and thickness options available when choosing a rug pad for floor protection.
The material of the rug pad, such as felt, rubber, or PVC, plays a crucial role in protecting the floor and providing a stable foundation for the rug.
Additionally, the thickness of the rug pad, ranging from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch, determines the level of cushioning and support it offers.
It's essential to select a rug pad that can be easily trimmed to fit any size or shape, ensuring a customizable fit for different area rugs.
Furthermore, compatibility with the specific type of flooring, non-slip grip, cushioning for comfort and noise reduction, as well as durability to prevent wear and tear on both the rug and the flooring, are all factors to carefully consider when evaluating material and thickness options.
Floor Type Compatibility
Choosing a rug pad that's compatible with the specific flooring in your home is essential for providing proper grip and protection. Consider the type of flooring you have, such as hardwood, tile, laminate, or carpet, to ensure the rug pad is suitable.
Look for rug pads specifically recommended for your type of flooring to ensure they provide the desired grip and protection. For hard surface flooring like hardwood or tile, choose a rug pad with non-slip features to prevent shifting and sliding.
If you have a variety of floor types in your home, consider rug pads that are compatible with multiple surfaces to provide versatility. It's crucial to ensure the rug pad is suitable for the specific conditions of your floor, such as radiant heat, to prevent any damage or safety hazards.
Customizable Sizing
We find that customizable sizing is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a rug pad for your home.
The ability to trim the rug pad to fit any area rug size or shape with household scissors provides a tailored fit and ensures the rug stays securely in place.
This flexibility allows for the pad to be customized for non-standard sized rugs, offering a personalized fit for various sizes and shapes.
The capability to easily trim the rug padding with common household tools enhances its versatility, making it suitable for a range of rug sizes and shapes.
Customizable sizing not only provides a perfect and secure fit for your rugs but also ensures that your floors are well-protected.
Non-Slip Properties
After ensuring a tailored fit for your rugs through customizable sizing, it's essential to consider the non-slip properties when selecting a rug pad.
Non-slip properties are crucial as they prevent shifting, sliding, and bunching of the rug, maintaining its position securely. The grip provided by the rug pad also ensures that the rug stays in place during activities such as vacuuming or when furniture is rearranged.
This feature is particularly beneficial for use on hard or slick surfaces like tile or hardwood, where the non-slip properties protect the floors by preventing scratches, color transfer, and accumulation of grime and dirt.
The non-slip grip is typically achieved through small clear dots that effectively anchor the rug in place, providing stability and protection for both the rug and the flooring.
Durability and Care
When selecting a rug pad, it's important to prioritize durability. This means choosing a material that can withstand foot traffic, heavy furniture, and potential wear and tear over time.
Another factor to consider is ease of cleaning and maintenance. Look for rug pads that can be spot cleaned with mild detergent to ensure long-term use and cleanliness.
It's also important to choose a rug pad that retains its cushioning and grip properties even after trimming to fit a custom size or shape. This ensures that the rug pad remains effective and functional.
Check if the rug pad is suitable for the specific type of flooring, such as hardwood, tile, or laminate. This is important to prevent any damage or unwanted interactions with the floor surface.
Additionally, consider the presence of any initial chemical smells and whether they dissipate over time after installation. This ensures a pleasant and odor-free environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Choose the Right Size Rug Pad for My Area Rug?
We choose the right size rug pad by measuring the area rug and then selecting a pad that's slightly smaller. This ensures the pad doesn't show under the rug. The pad should be 1-2 inches smaller than the rug on all sides.
It's also important to consider the type of flooring the rug will be placed on, as different materials require different types of rug pads for protection and to prevent slipping.
Can These Rug Pads Be Used on All Types of Flooring, Including Hardwood, Tile, and Laminate?
Yes, these rug pads can be used on all types of flooring, including hardwood, tile, and laminate.
We recently installed a rug pad on our hardwood floors and it has worked really well. It provides a good grip to keep the rug in place and also protects the floor from scratches.
The pad is versatile and doesn't cause any damage to different types of flooring.
Are These Rug Pads Easy to Trim for a Custom Fit?
Yes, these rug pads are easy to trim for a custom fit. We've found that they can be easily cut to the exact size needed, making it simple to ensure a perfect fit for any rug.
Trimming them to fit our rugs has been a breeze, allowing us to customize them for different rug sizes and shapes. It's a convenient feature that has made using these rug pads hassle-free.
Do These Rug Pads Provide Cushioning for Comfort Underfoot?
Yes, these rug pads provide excellent cushioning for comfort underfoot. Our experience with them has shown a noticeable improvement in the overall comfort of walking on our rugs.
It's a great way to add a soft layer underfoot without compromising on stability. Plus, the cushioning helps to reduce noise and extend the life of both the rug and the floor.
How Do I Clean and Maintain These Rug Pads to Ensure Longevity?
We clean and maintain these rug pads by regularly vacuuming or shaking them out to remove dirt and debris.
For spot cleaning, we use a mild detergent and water, following the manufacturer's instructions.
It's essential to ensure the rug pads are completely dry before placing them back under the rug to prevent mold and mildew.
Regular maintenance helps prolong the life of the rug pads and keeps them in good condition.
Can Rug Pads Help Protect Hardwood Floors from Damage?
Yes, rug pads can be highly beneficial in protecting hardwood floors from damage. They provide an extra layer of cushioning and support, preventing scratches, dents, and discoloration. When shopping for rug pads, look for options that are compatible with the best hardwood flooring brands to ensure maximum protection.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the 15 best rug pads to protect your floors and keep your rugs in place.
And while some may argue that rug pads aren't necessary, the peace of mind knowing that your floors are protected from scratches and your rugs are secure is priceless.
Don't wait until it's too late, invest in a quality rug pad today and enjoy the benefits for years to come.