There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to the good maintenance of floors. One of them is whether or not you need a rug pad for hardwood floors. So, what’s the truth? Do you really need a rug pad?
Without a rug pad, your hardwood floors are prone to scratches, dents, and other forms of damage. On the other hand, having a rug pad will provide cushioning to your feet, protect your floors and help keep them looking new.
Not to mention, it will also extend the life of your rug by preventing it from slipping and sliding.
In this post, we’ll discuss why it is important to have rug pads, which rug pads are good for your floors, and how to choose the right size rug pad.
6 Reasons Why You Need a Rug Pad for Hardwood Flooring
If you have hardwood floors, it is important to invest in a good-quality rug pad. Not only will it protect your floors from scratches, but it will also make your home more comfortable and inviting.
Rug pads are well-reputed for a number of benefits such as:
- Prevent Slipping Hazards – Having a rug pad is not only important, but it could also prevent possible accidents in your home. For example, if you have hardwood floors and place a rug on top of them, there is always the potential for the rug to slip and slide. This could be extremely dangerous if you have children or pets in your home.
- Adds Cushioning and Comfort – What’s the point of an area rug when you don’t feel comfortable walking on it? A rug pad will add an extra layer of cushioning and comfort to your floors, making them more enjoyable to walk on. Furthermore, they will also protect your floors in high-traffic areas from wear and tear.
- Protect Your Floors from Damage – Without a rug pad, your hardwood floors are more susceptible to scratches, dents, and other forms of damage. Over time, this damage can add up and make your floors look old and worn. A rug pad will act as a barrier between your rug and the floor and extend the longevity of both.
- Effortless Cleaning – Rug pads make cleaning or vacuuming your rug much easier. It prevents dust from accumulating underneath the carpet. In addition, it also promotes airflow, which prevents mildew and mold from growing underneath your rug.
- Prevent Stains – Your rugs are susceptible to stains, especially if you place them in high-traffic areas. A rug pad will protect your floors from spills and stains by absorbing the liquid. As a result, your rugs will last longer and stay looking new. In addition, the dyes in the area rug also have the potential to bleed onto your floors. A rug pad will prevent this from happening by acting as a barrier between the two.
- Noise Reduction – If you live in an apartment or condo, you may be familiar with the sound of footsteps echoing through the halls. A rug pad will help muffle these sounds and make your home more peaceful.
What Are the Different Types of Rug Pads?
Not all rug pads are created equal. There are different types of rug pads, each with its own set of benefits. The type of rug pad you choose will depend on your floor needs and personal preferences.
The most common types of rug pads are:
Felt Rug Pads
Made from recycled materials and offer excellent cushioning. Moreover, they are also very thin, which makes them ideal for use on hardwood floors. But these rug pads should not be used on laminate or vinyl floors as they could result in damage.
Natural Rubber Rug Pads
These are constructed of recycled tires and provide excellent traction and grip. They are superior for use on carpets since they are thicker than felt rug pads. But, without the grip, these rug pads could be slippery on hardwood flooring,
Fiber Rug Pads
These provide good cushioning and are made of materials like jute or wool. Although, these rug pads are sturdy but are also fairly pricey. Plus, these paddings are both biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Foam Rug Pads
Because it is versatile, foam can be utilized on any type of flooring. In addition, it is lightweight and easy to cut and is an excellent choice for custom-sized carpets. Moreover, these rug pads offer good cushioning and are very comfortable to walk on.
Colorfast Rug Pads
They are made of materials that will not bleed or transfer their color to the floor, regardless of how much moisture or heat is present. These rug pads are ideal for use in high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children.
What Kind of Rug Pad Is Safe for Hardwood Floors?
The best type of rug pad for hardwood floors is felt or natural rubber rug pads. You can also try pads which are a combination of both material types. They offer good grip and traction on hardwood floors, while also providing cushioning.
In addition, memory foam rug pads are also a good choice for hardwood floors because they’re very effective in protecting your floors from scratches and scuffs. Not to mention, they add an extra layer of cushioning and comfort, which is always a plus.
Below are our top recommendations for the best rug pads for hardwood floors:
1. RUGPADUSA Extra Thick Felt Rug Pad
RUGPADUSA is one of America’s top rug pad brands for a good reason. It is dense enough to provide soundproofing and insulation, while also being gentle on your floors. You’ll love how comfortable your rug feels with its pad – without all the extra bulk.
This environmentally friendly product is also made of recycled materials and is safe for use with any type of flooring, including hardwood, laminate, stone, tile, radiant heat, and bamboo.
Another good thing about this rug pad is it won’t stain or damage your flooring in any way. Plus, it’s odorless and has low VOCs so you can breathe easily. The only drawback is that it is a non slip rug pad so it might move around on your hardwood floors if you don’t have a rug with a non slip backing.
2. Mohawk Dual Surface Felt Rug Pad
The Mohawk dual surface felt rug pad, is created from 100% felt, is an excellent choice if you want a rug pad that will hold your area rug in place. Its non slip surface will prevent your rug from sliding.
Furthermore, this rug pad is also great for protecting your floors from scratches. The thick felt padding will act as a buffer between your floor and the rug, absorbing any impact and protecting your floors from scratches or other damage.
The good thing is that this padding is available in popular rug sizes, so you should be able to find one that fits your rug perfectly. Overall, this Mohawk rug pad is a great choice if you’re looking for high-quality padding that will not only keep your floors scratch-free but also give life to your entire space.
What Is the Best Pad to Use Under an Area Rug?
There are a few different types of rug pads that you can use under an area rug, but the best type will depend on your specific needs. For example, if you’re looking for a pad that will keep your rug in place, a non-slip pad like the Mohawk dual surface felt rug pad is a great option.
Ultimately, the best type of rug pad to use under an area rug will depend on your specific needs and preferences. In general, a combination of felt and rubber is the best type of rug pad to use. Felt provides cushioning and protection, while rubber prevents slipping and sliding.
How Soon Can You Put Rugs on New Hardwood Floors?
It’s best to wait at least 30 days before putting rugs on new hardwood floors. This is because it takes around 3 weeks for the polyurethane finish to completely cure. During this curing process, your floors will be more susceptible to scratches and other damage.
If you put rugs on newly refinished floors right after completing the process, your rugs will likely end up sticking to the floors and be difficult to remove. For this reason, it’s best to wait for the recommended time before putting rugs on new hardwood floors which may leave stains or residue.
How Much Should a Rug Pad Overlap?
A rug pad should overlap the edges of your rug by at least 1 inch. This will help ensure that it stays in place and doesn’t slip or slide around. Additionally, an overlapping rug pad will also help protect your floors from scratches or other damage.
If you’re not sure how much to overlap your rug pad, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and go for a slightly larger size. This way, you can be sure that your rug pad will stay in place and won’t cause any damage to your floors.
How Long Do Rug Pads Last?
It depends on the type of rug pad that you have. For example, a cheaper rug pad made of synthetic materials may only last for 1-2 years. On the other hand, a more expensive one made of natural materials like wool can last for 10 years or more.
For example, RUGPADUSA offers a variety of different rug pads, some of which are made of natural wool and others that are made of synthetic materials. Natural wool rug pads are more expensive but they will last longer than synthetic rug pads.
Ultimately, how long your rug pad lasts will depend on the type of material that it’s made of. If you want your rug pad to last for a long time, it’s best to choose one made of natural materials like wool.
Which type of Rug Pads to Avoid?
You should avoid any type of rug pad that has a lattice pattern. This is because the small holes in the lattice can cause dents or scratches in your hardwood, vinyl, or bamboo floors.
Additionally, you should also avoid any rug pads that are made of PVC or other plastics. These types of rug pads can damage your floors over time and are not as durable as other options.
Finally, you should also avoid any rug pads that are NOT made of natural materials. Synthetic materials like polyester or nylon will not last as long as natural materials like wool or cotton.
How Thick of a Rug Pad Do I Need?
The thickness of your rug pad will depend on the type of flooring that you have. For example, if you have hardwood floors, you’ll need a thinner rug pad so that your doors can still open and close smoothly.
On the other hand, if you have vinyl or bamboo floors, you’ll need a thicker pad to protect your floors from scratches. In general, a thicker rug pad is better than a thinner one.
However, the thickness of your rug pad will also depend on the type of rug that you have. For instance:
- 1/8″ to 1/4″ is recommended pad thickness for thin rugs
- 1/4″ or above is recommended pad thickness for medium rugs
- 1/2″ or above recommended pad thickness for heavy rugs
Should Rug Pads Be the Same Size as Rugs?
Rug pads should be slightly smaller than the rugs they are meant to protect. Generally, it should be approximately one inch less on all sides. This is to ensure that it stays in place and doesn’t move around.
A rug pad that is too big can cause damage to your floors. Make sure to choose one that is slightly smaller than the rug it will be protecting. Plus, smaller rug pads will also help ensure that your doors can still open and close smoothly.
Related Questions
Are Rubber-Backed Rugs Safe for Hardwood Floors?
No, rubber-backed rugs are not safe for hardwood floors. These rugs contain adhesives and glues that can damage your floors over time. Additionally, the rubber backing can also cause mold or mildew to grow on your hardwood floors.
Why Is Wood Floor Lighter Under a Rug?
If you have a hardwood floor that is lighter in color under a rug, it’s likely because the rug is protecting the floor from sunlight. UV rays can cause hardwood floors to fade over time. By placing a rug on top of your hardwood floors, you can help protect them from fading.
Which Side Goes Down on a Rug Pad?
The smooth side of the rug pad should go down on your floor. This is to ensure that the rug pad doesn’t damage your floors. Additionally, the smooth side will help keep your rug in place and prevent it from sliding around.
What Can You Use Instead of a Rug Pad?
Although using a rug pad is the safest and best option, there are a few alternatives that you can use. These include:
- Using double-sided tape to keep your rug in place
- Using furniture pads on the bottom of your rug
- Weighing down your rug with heavy objects
Some people also use glue beads, and caulking to keep their rugs in place. However, these methods are not as effective as using a rug pad and can permanently damage your floors.
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