Rug Pads That Keep Rugs In Place (Without Damaging Floors)
Rug Pad Materials and the Best Fit for Every Floor Type
Different rug pad materials work best on specific floor types, and choosing the right one ensures an easier fit, better grip, and longer-lasting rug support.
Rubber and Non-Slip PVC Rug Pads
Rubber rug pads are designed for maximum grip, especially on smooth surfaces. They are ideal for keeping lightweight rugs in place.
- Must be sized carefully so edges don’t show
- Best for smaller rugs and runners
- Works best on hardwood, tile, laminate, and vinyl floors
- Not recommended for floors with delicate finishes
Felt Rug Pads
Felt rug pads are thick, soft, and supportive, making them a great choice for larger area rugs and spaces with heavy furniture.
- Best sized slightly smaller than the rug to stay hidden
- Easy to trim for custom rug sizes
- Works well on hardwood, laminate, tile, carpet, and concrete
- Provides cushioning but may need a grip layer for slip resistance
Combination Rug Pads (Felt & Rubber)
Combination rug pads offer the best of both worlds: soft cushioning from felt and stability from a non-slip rubber backing.
- Great all-purpose option for most rooms
- More forgiving with slight sizing adjustments
- Ideal for hardwood, tile, laminate, and concrete
- Helps prevent slipping while adding comfort
Rug Pad Sizing Tips
Different rug styles require slightly different pad sizing strategies to ensure the best fit, comfort, and slip resistance.
Small Rugs & Accent Rugs
Small rugs, such as entryway mats or bedside rugs, are the most prone to slipping and shifting.
- Size the pad about 1 inch smaller on all sides
- Use a non-slip pad with strong grip
- Avoid thick pads that lift the rug too high
- Precision matters; even a half-inch of exposed pad can be noticeable
- Custom-sized pads can help achieve an exact fit
Runner Rugs
Runner rugs are long and narrow, making accurate sizing especially important.
- Match the runner’s width as closely as possible
- Leave about 1 inch of rug visible along each side
- Use low-profile pads to avoid door clearance issues
- Runner-specific or custom-sized pads provide the best fit
- Avoid trimming oversized pads whenever possible to ensure straight edges
Area Rugs
Area rugs anchor furniture layouts, define spaces, and handle heavier foot traffic.
- Size the rug pad 1–2 inches smaller than the rug perimeter
- Choose thicker felt or combo pads for cushioning
- Make sure the padding supports all furniture legs resting on the rug
- Extend the rug pad under partially placed furniture to prevent uneven wear
- Custom pad sizing is ideal for oversized or unique rug shapes
Compare Our Rug Pads
Prevent Slipping
Added Comfort
Perfect Fit
1/8" (3mm)
1/4" (6mm)
1/4" (6mm)
Hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, concrete, carpet
Hardwood, laminate, tile, concrete, carpet
Hardwood, laminate, tile, concrete, carpet
Yes
Yes
Yes; Made to Order
☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆☆
☆☆☆☆☆
Yes
Yes
Yes
Hallways, entryways, kitchens, laundry rooms, runners
Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, under heavy furniture
Family rooms, offices, nurseries, most indoor spaces
How to Install a Rug Pad
A properly installed rug pad ensures it performs as designed.
- Clean the floor from any dirt and debris.
- Lay the rug pad flat in the area intended.
- Confirm the rug pad is positioned evenly.
- Place the rug on top and adjust as needed.
- Trim any excess padding with scissors.
- Smooth out wrinkles or bubbles from the center outward.
Trimming Tips
- Use sharp scissors or a utility knife.
- Trim slowly using a straight edge as a guide.
- Cut small sections at a time to ensure precision.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Proper rug pad maintenance helps extend its lifespan, keeps your rugs secure, and ensures your floors stay clean and protected over time.
- Vacuum rug pads occasionally when moving rugs.
- Spot clean with mild soap and water.
- Let pads dry fully before reuse.
- Replace if worn, brittle, or losing grip.
- Roll up if storing; folding rug pads can create permanent creases.
FAQs About Rug Pads
Do I need a rug pad?
Yes. Rug pads help prevent slipping, protect floors, reduce noise, and help rugs last longer by reducing movement and wear.
What size rug pad should I buy?
Choose a pad that's 1–2 inches smaller than your rug on each side so the edges sit flat and don’t curl.
Which rug pad is best for hardwood floors?
Most shoppers want strong grip and a floor-safe backing. Use the pad labeled safe for hardwood and follow any cautions for floor finishes
Can I use a rug pad on vinyl/LVP floors?
Often yes—but some backings can react with certain finishes. Look for explicit “safe for vinyl/LVP” guidance and follow installation directions (clean, dry surface; avoid trapped moisture).
Can rug pads go on carpet?
Some can, some shouldn’t. For carpet, stability matters—choose a pad specifically labeled compatible with carpet and match thickness to pile height.
What thickness should I choose: 1/8" vs 1/4"?
1/8" (3mm) provides low-profile grip great for runners and doors with limited clearance. 1/4" (6mm) adds comfort, noise reduction, and a plush feel. Choose the rug pad thickness that best suits your needs.
Can I cut a rug pad to size?
Yes. Most pads, including rug padding from Well Woven, can be trimmed with scissors (or a utility knife for thicker styles). Trim after placing it under the rug for accuracy.
Do rug pads have an odor?
Some materials can have a new-product smell. Airing it out in a ventilated area usually resolves it.
What’s the difference between standard size and custom size rug pads?
Standard size rug pads ship ready to place. Custom size rug pads are made to order and meant for non-standard rug dimensions or custom size rugs.
Will a rug pad damage my floors?
A quality pad used correctly should protect floors, but finish types vary. Follow the floor-compatibility notes and avoid moisture under rugs.
How do I keep a runner from sliding?
Use a non-slip pad sized correctly (slightly smaller than the runner) and place it on a clean, dry floor.
