Best Rug Pad for Hardwood Floors: Top Picks and Buying Guide

Rugs are a staple in many homes, adding warmth, texture, and style to any room. However, without a proper rug pad, these floor coverings can pose a safety hazard and wear down more quickly. A rug pad provides a non-slip surface that keeps the rug in place and prevents wrinkling, bunching, and slipping. Additionally, it can provide extra cushioning and extend the life of the rug.

When it comes to choosing the best rug pad, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the material of the pad. Some common materials include rubber, felt, and foam. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as grip, thickness, and durability. The size of the rug pad is also important, as it should be slightly smaller than the rug to prevent the edges from sticking out and creating a tripping hazard.

After researching and testing various rug pads, we have identified the top options for different types of rugs and flooring. Whether you have hardwood, tile, or carpet, we have found the best rug pads to meet your needs. In this article, we will share our findings and help you choose the best rug pad for your home.

Best Rug Pads

We have researched and tested various rug pads to help you find the best one for your needs. A rug pad not only provides cushioning and prevents slipping, but it can also extend the life of your rug by protecting it from wear and tear. After analyzing factors such as materials, thickness, and grip, we have narrowed down the top options for you. Read on to find the best rug pad for your home.

1) RUGPADUSA – Dual Surface – 9’x12′ – 1/4″ Thick – Felt + Rubber – Non-Slip Backing Rug Pad – Safe for All Floors 9′ x 12′ 1/4″ Thick

If you’re looking for a rug pad that keeps your rug in place without damaging your floors, RUGPADUSA – Dual Surface is a great option.

We recently purchased RUGPADUSA – Dual Surface for our living room area rug, and it has exceeded our expectations. The natural rubber backing keeps the rug in place, even with constant foot traffic, and the felt adds a comfortable cushion underfoot. We appreciate that it’s made in the USA with recycled materials, and the needle-punched design helps prevent moisture buildup. The only downside is the initial odor, but it faded after a few days.

If you’re looking for a rug pad that provides excellent grip, cushioning, and protection for your floors, RUGPADUSA – Dual Surface is a great choice. It’s a bit pricey, but the quality and durability make it worth the investment.

2) Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad

If you’re looking for a durable and comfortable rug pad that offers great protection for your floors, the Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad is a great choice.

We’ve found that the Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality rug pad that offers both comfort and protection. The plush cushioning provided by the felt fibers is a great feature, and the non-slip latex backing ensures that your rug stays in place.

One thing to note is that the rug pad does have a strong smell when first unpacked, but this dissipates over time. Additionally, while the rug pad is suitable for use with most types of flooring, it may not be the best choice for vinyl or linoleum floors.

Overall, we highly recommend the Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad for anyone looking for a durable and comfortable rug pad that offers excellent protection for their floors.

3) Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper 8 x 10 Feet Extra Thick Pads for Any Hard Surface Floors, Keep Your Rugs Safe and in Place, Under Carpet Anti Skid Mat (1) 8 x 10 Ft

If you’re looking for a reliable rug pad that will keep your rug in place and protect your floors, the Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper is a great option.

We’ve been using the Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper for several months now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The pad has kept our rug in place and prevented it from bunching or sliding, even with high-traffic use. We also appreciate the extra cushion that the pad provides, making our rug more comfortable to walk on.

Installation was easy, and we were able to trim the pad to fit our rug with household scissors. The open grid construction has also helped to protect our floors from scratches and dust.

Overall, we would recommend the Veken Non Slip Rug Pad Gripper for anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting rug pad. Just be sure to check that your floor surface is compatible with the pad before purchasing.

4) Rugs.com – 8′ x 10′ Everyday Performance Rug Pad 1/4″ Thick Felt & Non-Slip Backing Perfect for Any Flooring Surface 8′ x 10′ Grey

If you’re looking for a rug pad that keeps your rug firmly in place, protects your floors, and adds extra insulation and sound absorption to your rug, then the Rugs.com Everyday Performance Rug Pad might be the perfect fit for you.

In our experience, the Rugs.com Everyday Performance Rug Pad is an excellent choice for anyone looking to keep their rug in place, protect their floors, and add extra insulation and sound absorption to their rug. The natural rubber backing of the pad keeps your rug firmly in place, preventing unsightly buckling, while the plush felt-and-rubber construction adds extra cushioning and insulation to your rug.

We also appreciate that the pad can be easily cut-to-size for rugs of any shape or size, making it a versatile choice for any home. However, we did notice that the pad might slide a bit on some surfaces, but this can be easily solved by using adhesive corners or placing furniture on top of the rug.

Overall, if you’re looking for a rug pad that provides excellent grip, cushioning, and insulation, the Rugs.com Everyday Performance Rug Pad is definitely worth considering.

5) Enjoy Holiday 1981 Non Slip Area Rug Pad Gripper

If you are looking for a rug pad that is versatile and can be used for multiple purposes, the Enjoy Holiday 1981 Non Slip Area Rug Pad Gripper is a great option.

We have used this rug pad for a few months now and we are happy with its performance. It has kept our rugs in place and protected our hardwood floors from scratches. The mesh design is unique and effective in preventing moisture accumulation and dust. We also appreciate the fact that it is made of high-quality PVC material and is environment-friendly. The rug pad was easy to cut and install, and we have had no issues with it so far.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a rug pad that is versatile, durable, and easy to install, the Enjoy Holiday 1981 Non Slip Area Rug Pad Gripper is a great option to consider. With its unique mesh design and high-quality PVC material, it provides excellent protection and cushioning for your rugs and floors.

6) RUGPADUSA Basics 9’x12′ Felt Rug Pad

If you’re looking for a rug pad that provides comfort and protection, RUGPADUSA Basics is a great option for you.

We recently tried out RUGPADUSA Basics under our living room rug and were impressed with its quality. The pad is made in the USA and is of high quality. The plush feel of the pad added comfort underfoot and the dense fiber provided noise reduction and insulation benefits. We were also happy to see that the pad did not mark or stain our hardwood floors.

However, it’s important to note that this pad is not non-slip and is meant for use with rugs anchored by furniture or heavy rugs that stay in place on their own. Additionally, the thickness is approximately 1/4″ throughout, so if you’re looking for a thicker pad, you may want to try the thicker 3/8″ or 1/2″ options. Lastly, while it’s eco-friendly and contains no glues, pvc, or latex, it may not be suitable for those with allergies.

Overall, we would recommend RUGPADUSA Basics to those looking for a comfortable and protective rug pad.

7) Gorilla Grip Extra Strong Rug Pad Gripper

If you’re looking for a rug pad that can prevent rug movement and protect your floors, the Gorilla Grip Extra Strong Rug Pad Gripper might be the right choice for you.

We recently tried out the Gorilla Grip Extra Strong Rug Pad Gripper, and we were impressed with its ability to prevent rug movement and protect our floors. The dual-sided grip held both the rug pad and our hardwood floor firmly, even in high-traffic areas.

The open grid design also allowed our floors to breathe, preventing damage and discoloration. The thick cushioning added extra comfort and made our rugs cozier and softer underfoot. Additionally, the rug pad helped reduce everyday noise in busy areas, making it a great choice for families with kids and pets.

However, we did notice that the pad may slip out slightly from the rug, requiring repositioning. We also found that the rug pad may need to be cut smaller than the rug to prevent movement. Corner grippers may also be necessary to keep the pad in place.

Overall, we would recommend the Gorilla Grip Extra Strong Rug Pad Gripper for those looking for a rug pad that can prevent rug movement and protect their floors.

8) Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad

If you’re looking for a high-quality rug pad that offers both cushioning and protection for your floors, then the Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad is definitely worth considering.

We were impressed with the Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad’s ability to provide extra comfort and protection for our area rugs. The three thickness options offered a variety of soft feels underfoot, while the non-slip latex rubber backing kept our rugs in place and prevented slipping, sliding, bunching, and wrinkles.

One of the best features of this rug pad is its customizable sizing, which allowed us to trim the pad with scissors to fit any area rug size or shape. We also appreciated that the rug pad was available in scatters, runners, and popular sizes such as 5×8, 6×9, and 8×10.

However, we did notice a slight smell upon opening the package, but it dissipated after a few days. We also found that additional non-slip grip was necessary for smaller area rugs under 5×8. Additionally, the rug pad may not be suitable for use with certain types of flooring.

Overall, we would recommend the Mohawk Home Dual Surface Rug Pad for anyone looking for a durable and comfortable rug pad that offers both cushioning and protection for their floors.

9) RUGPADUSA Basics 8’x10′ 1/4″ Thick Rug Pad

If you’re looking for a rug pad that provides comfort and protection for your floors, then the RUGPADUSA Basics 8’x10′ 1/4″ Thick Rug Pad might be a good option for you.

We recently purchased this rug pad for our living room area rug and have been pleased with its performance so far. The plush feel underfoot is a noticeable improvement from having no rug pad at all. Additionally, we appreciate the protection it provides for our hardwood floors from the weight of our furniture.

However, it’s important to note that this rug pad is not suitable for non-slip applications. If you have a rug that tends to move around, you may want to consider one of RUGPADUSA’s felt and rubber options instead. Also, while the thickness is advertised as 1/4″, it may vary slightly in production. We didn’t notice a significant difference in thickness, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Overall, we recommend the RUGPADUSA Basics 8’x10′ 1/4″ Thick Rug Pad for those looking for a comfortable and protective rug pad. Just be sure to measure your rug and trim the pad accordingly to ensure a proper fit.

10) RESARE Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Gripper

We highly recommend the RESARE Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Gripper for anyone looking to keep their area rug in place and protect their hardwood or tile floors.

This rug pad is a game-changer for keeping your area rug in place. The anti-slip felt mats prevent shifting of the rug when it’s walked on, making it safe and worry-free for your family and guests. It can also hold your area rug in place while vacuuming and moving furniture, which is especially important if you are placing the rug on a hard or slick surface like tile or hardwood.

Not only does the RESARE Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Gripper keep your rug in place, but it also protects your rug and floor from damage. Prolonged friction can damage the backing of the carpet, which can cause the pile to loosen. Acting as an extended buffer between your rug and the floor, a rug pad absorbs most of the shock from foot traffic, preventing the fibers of your rug from being crushed and adding to the rug’s longevity. Additionally, poor quality rugs and rug pads can scratch your floors and damage the finish. They could also transfer the color to the flooring, leading to discoloration or staining. Our high-quality cushioned rug pads can protect your flooring and prevent grime and dirt from accumulating under the rug.

The RESARE Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Gripper also adds cushion and reduces noise. Put the extra-thick felted pad under your area rug, and you will feel totally different from the old ways! Thanks to our newest technology 3D-VOF (which can make the rug pad softer and plusher), you will feel cushier and more comfortable under your feet. And the dense fibers of the rug pad help to reduce noise.

This rug padding can be easily trimmed to fit rug carpet sizes, and the edge will maintain firm and smooth. If you don’t see the matching size or form of a pad for a rug that you want, buy a larger one and simply cut off the excess with household scissors.

In summary, the RESARE Non Slip Rug Pad Rug Gripper is a must-have for anyone looking to keep their area rug in place and protect their hardwood or tile floors.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best rug pad, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of important factors to keep in mind to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The material of the rug pad is an important factor to consider. Look for a pad made from high-quality materials that won’t damage your floors or rug over time. Common materials include felt, rubber, and foam. Felt pads are great for adding extra cushioning, while rubber pads offer excellent grip and stability. Foam pads are a good choice for those looking for a lightweight option.

Size

Make sure to measure your rug before purchasing a pad to ensure a proper fit. A pad that is too small will not provide adequate support, while a pad that is too large can create a tripping hazard. It’s recommended to choose a pad that is slightly smaller than your rug to ensure it stays hidden beneath the edges.

Thickness

The thickness of the rug pad can greatly affect the comfort and support it provides. A thicker pad will offer more cushioning and protection for your floors, while a thinner pad may be better suited for low-pile rugs. Consider the thickness of your rug and the amount of foot traffic it receives when choosing a pad.

Durability

Look for a rug pad that is durable and built to last. A high-quality pad will not only protect your floors and rug, but it will also save you money in the long run by reducing wear and tear. Check for features such as non-slip backing and reinforced edges to ensure your pad will hold up over time.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best rug pad for your needs. Remember to measure your rug, consider the material and thickness of the pad, and choose a durable option for long-lasting protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do we choose the appropriate rug pad for hardwood floors?

When choosing a rug pad for hardwood floors, it is important to select a pad that is made from a non-slip material to prevent the rug from sliding around. Additionally, it is recommended to choose a pad that is made from a breathable material to allow for proper air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.

What materials are recommended for a high-quality rug pad?

The most commonly recommended materials for a high-quality rug pad are natural rubber and felt. Natural rubber is durable and provides excellent grip, while felt provides cushioning and protects the flooring underneath.

What features should we look for in a rug pad for carpeted areas?

When selecting a rug pad for carpeted areas, it is important to choose a pad that is made from a non-slip material to prevent the rug from shifting. Additionally, a pad with a lower profile is recommended to prevent the rug from bunching up or creating a tripping hazard.

How can we determine the ideal thickness for a rug pad in our home?

The ideal thickness for a rug pad depends on the type of flooring and the amount of cushioning desired. For hardwood floors, a thinner pad is recommended to prevent the rug from sliding around. For carpeted areas, a thicker pad can provide additional cushioning and support.

Are natural rubber rug pads superior to synthetic options?

While synthetic rug pads can be effective, natural rubber rug pads are generally considered to be superior due to their durability and non-slip properties. Additionally, natural rubber is an eco-friendly and sustainable material.

What are the benefits of using a Gorilla Grip or Mohawk brand rug pad?

Gorilla Grip and Mohawk are both well-known brands in the rug pad industry, and their products are known for their quality and effectiveness. Some of the benefits of using these brands include non-slip properties, durability, and eco-friendliness. Additionally, their products come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses to fit any rug and flooring type.