Rug pads offer many benefits to a home, such as preventing slips, making carpets feel more plush, and soundproofing the home. In addition to adding comfort and safety to the home, rug pads also protect hardwood floors from stains, scratches, and other wear and tear. Oriental rug pads for hardwood floors offer protection to both the floor as well as the rug itself.

Safety

While area rugs add warmth and beautiful decor to a room, they can also be dangerous if they are not secure. Their tendency to bunch up and slide could cause a harmful fall. A low-quality area rug is especially prone to bunching, sliding, or curling at the edges. Non-slip rug pads for hardwood floors are generally made from rubber, latex, or PVC. The benefits and downsides of these materials will be discussed below.

Non-slip rug pads are crucial for high-traffic areas to prevent the risk of falling. They are also particularly beneficial in areas where the rug is not held down by heavy furniture.

Protection for Both the Rug and Floor

It is still prudent to consider a rug pad even for well-made rugs that stay in place. A non-slip rug pad for hardwood floors will protect the floor from damage caused by the underside of rugs, which can occasionally scratch the floor or transfer dyes onto it.

Along with protecting hardwood floors, rug pads also add reinforcement to the rug itself by reducing deterioration, avoiding the need for frequent rug repairs. Oriental rug pads for hardwood floors prevent dirt from getting stuck underneath the rug and create airflow. This airflow is crucial for preventing the growth of mold, mildew, and other unwanted bacteria.

Waterproof rug pads are an excellent defense against water damage, keeping spills from leaking all the way through to the floor. A home with pets may especially benefit from waterproof rug pads.

Comfort

Rug pads provide additional, supportive cushion and softness to rugs. The cushion is not only beneficial for comfort, but it also helps with sound insulation.

Materials

The best rug pads for hardwood floors feature durability, thickness, and high-quality material. A thick rug pad will create an added softness to the rug, which is not only a pleasant feeling but also offers soundproof. Depending on the purpose of a rug, there are a variety of materials to choose from when picking the best rug pad for hardwood floors.

While a felt rug pad naturally grips the bottom of a rug, felt does not stick to a hardwood floor very well. It is recommended to add rubber onto the underside of a felt rug pad unless it will be anchored by large furniture or beneath a rug made of heavy material. Since felt rug pads are made in a wide range of densities and thicknesses, they are a great option for homes in need of top soundproofing and insulation. Felt rug pads do not withstand the damaging effects of water; therefore, they should not be used in outdoor areas, bathrooms, or kitchens.

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is used to make rug pads that work best outside. PVC rug pads are an inexpensive option that is favorable for a budget; however, they often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which release chemicals into the air. These chemicals could be harmful to people and pets. PVC pads have been known to cause discoloration and damage to hardwood, laminate, and vinyl floors. Therefore, this type of rug pad is one of the better options for an outdoor rug.

For an environmentally friendly, safer alternative to PVC, consider rubber rug pads. Made from rubber tree sap, these rug pads are great for outdoor use or rooms that are prone to getting water on the floor, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Since they tend to be thinner than other rug pads, rubber rug pads do not provide much cushioning.

This can be beneficial to areas in the home with low clearance at the bottom of the doorway. When researching rubber rug pads, be sure to purchase a pad that is made from 100% natural rubber. Some synthetic rubber pads include filler substances that can compromise the quality. Sand or clay added to rubber rug pads can damage hardwood floors rather than protect them.

Latex is less expensive than rubber rug pads; however, latex usually has filler ingredients that can leave residue on hardwood floors with long-term usage. If looking for a budget-friendly option that holds up well against water, consider a latex rug pad especially for outdoor areas, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Memory foam rug pads add luxury and superior cushioning to rugs. If familiar with the memory foam in mattresses and pillows, you will appreciate the softness of a memory foam rug pad. A layer of natural rubber will help a memory foam rug pad stay in place on a slippery floor. The comfort and cushiness of memory foam make it a favorable choice for children’s playrooms.

As you can see, each material has its pros and cons regarding its use as a rug pad. There are hybrid rug pads that consist of a combination of materials that provide different benefits depending on the specific needs of a household. Among the best rug pads for hardwood floors are dual-layered pads made of felt and rubber. Felt will grip the rug while the rubber will grip to the floor.

What to Avoid

When considering a rug pad, there are some on the market that could cause harm to hardwood floors. Colorful rug pads can stain and discolor floors. Steer clear of adhesive products, as the glue might harm the floor’s finish.
Consider the size of the rug; do not buy a pad that would stick out beyond the edges of the rug. Some rug pad sizes are customizable and can be trimmed to better fit the rug.

Be sure to test the thickness and find what is most comfortable and fitting for your home. If a rug is under a doorway, measure how much room you have to add a pad.

If eco-friendliness is a top priority, research rug pads are made from natural materials. Thankfully, there are some good options for recycled and sustainable rug pads that are beneficial for both the home and the earth.

The Best Rug Pads for Hardwood Floors

Here are our preferred rug pads. Learn more about each or let our team help you decide which is the best fit for your situation.

1.  The Eco Value Rug Pad is made of felt with a polyester backing.

Features:

  • Green Label Plus Certified by the Carpet & Rug Institute as an environmentally safe product.
  • One of the only “Go Green” felt pads on the market.
  • Washable
  • Sustainable Eco Friendly – 100% Recycled – 100% Recyclable
  • No Odors or Off-gassing
  • Non-Toxic & Non-Allergenic
  • Will not stain, discolor or mar flooring
  • Great for Radiant Heat since it doesn’t degrade

Recommended Usage:

Thin for use in areas with clearance issues. Orientals, Foyers, Braided or low profile rugs. Any rug where extra thickness is not desired.

Product Weight:

6′ X 60′ roll @ 40 sq/yds, 360 sq/ft, 76 lbs
12′ X 60′ roll@ 80 sq/yds, 720 sq/ft, 152 lbs

2. The Eco Premium Rug Pad is made of felt with a ribbed backing.

Features:

  • Pet Urine Barrier – This moisture barrier is designed to keep pet urine from ruining your hardwood and other floors.
  • Green Label Plus Certified by the Carpet & Rug Institute as an environmentally safe product.
  • One of the only “Go Green” felt pads on the market.
  • Washable
  • Sustainable Eco Friendly – 100% Recycled – 100% Recyclable
  • No Odors or Off-gassing
  • Non-Toxic & Non-Allergenic
  • Will not stain, discolor or mar flooring
  • Great for Radiant Heat since it doesn’t degrade

Recommended usage:

Our midweight pet barrier rug pad is used primarily with Orientals. Thick rugs or anywhere extra cushion is desired. The plush thickness provides a great underfoot feel.

Product Weight:

6′ X 60′ roll @ 40 sq/yds, 360 sq/ft, 67 lbs
12′ X 60′ roll@ 80 sq/yds, 720 sq/ft, 134 lbs

3. The Eco Supreme Rug Pad is made of felt with a diamond backing.

Features:

  • Pet Urine Barrier – This moisture barrier is designed to keep pet urine from ruining your hardwood and other floors.
  • Green Label Plus Certified by the Carpet & Rug Institute as an environmentally safe product.
  • One of the only “Go Green” felt pads on the market.
  • Washable
  • Sustainable Eco Friendly – 100% Recycled – 100% Recyclable
  • No Odors or Off-gassing
  • Non-Toxic & Non-Allergenic
  • Will not stain, discolor or mar flooring
  • Great for Radiant Heat since it doesn’t degrade

Recommended Usage:

Our heavyweight pet barrier rug pad is used with Oriental, Thick, Plush rugs. Used anywhere a plush rebound is desired. The extra thickness provides a great underfoot feel.

Product Weight:

6′ X 60′ roll @ 40 sq/yds, 360 sq/ft, 92 lbs
12′ X 60′ roll@ 80 sq/yds, 720 sq/ft, 184 lbs

The safety, comfort, and protection provided by rug pads make them essential for the home. When searching for the best non-slip rug pads for hardwood floors, consider thickness, durability, and material