Preparation

Rugs can be expensive, so if you’re going to invest in one for your home, you should do everything you can to extend its lifespan. That’s where rug pads come in. These felt or latex pads are designed to go under your carpets to help protect your floors from things like heavy objects or accidental spills while minimizing rug wear. They also help keep your rug rooted in place so you don’t slip. Plus, some of the thicker rug pads just make walking on your carpets a cushioned dream.

The type of rug pad you want depends on your rug size and your flooring type. If you have a slippery wood or laminate floor, it’s important to choose a rug pad that will provide a good amount of grip. If you have a very thin rug, you won’t want a thick pad because it could elevate the rug and cause people to trip. For an area rug, you may want a denser pad to make walking on it extra soft.

Whatever your rug pad needs or desires, this list of the best rug pads has you covered. And if you already broke the bank to buy the rug, it’s nice to know that the rug pad doesn’t have to come at a high price, too.

Safavieh Martha Stewart Non-Slip PaddingWayfair Basics Dual Surface Rug PadDoubleCheck Products Non-Slip Rug PadRug Pad USA 100% Felt Cushioning Rug PadMohawk 1/8-Inch Non-Slip Rug PadRug Pad USA Cushioning Rug PadGorilla Grip Area Rug PadNinja Gripper Rug PadGrip-It Magic Stop Non-Slip PadWayfair Basics Deluxe Grip Outdoor Rug Pad