Rug Size Guides
Rug pads are the secret to loving your new area rug. They prevent scratches on hard floors, extend the durability of your rugs, and add a layer of padding and insulation. But it's not as simple as getting the thickest rug pad you can find and matching your rug pad size to your rug. The size and thickness of your rug will factor into choosing the size and thickness of your rug pad. And we're here to help you figure it out – this guide covers everything you need to know about how to find the right rug pad size and thickness.
The first question that most people ask is, "Should the rug pad be the same size as the rug?" You might assume that it should, but rug pads should be about one inch smaller than your rug on all sides. If your rug has a fringe or tassel finish, do not include it in your measurements.
For example, the right carpet pad size for a 9' x 11' area rug would be 8'10" x 11'10". By purchasing a rug pad that's slightly smaller than your area rug, you'll ensure that the edges of the pad taper to the floor, preventing tripping hazards and premature wear on your rug. Plus, rug pads are meant to remain hidden, and this sizing keeps them that way. The size and construction of your rug will also help you choose the ideal thickness. For example, rug pads vary from 1/16" to 1/2" thick.
Thick pads help protect your floors from heavy furniture, and they can soundproof your space (helpful if you have downstairs neighbors). They're ideal for more oversized rugs with a thick pile, such as Persian or oriental rugs. However, it would be best not to use thick pads with thin or flatweave rugs, medium and small rugs, and high-traffic zones.
For a thick rug, consider something between 1/4" and 1/2".
If you're deciding what size rug pad to use for a runner, you'd likely want something around 1/16" to 1/8".
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Rug pads come in different materials, and the most popular ones are made from felt and rubber. Felt paired with rubber helps prevent sliding, and 100% felt is best for large, heavy rugs.
You'll also hear the term "rug gripper," which can refer to a few things: gripper tape used to hold your rug in place, adhesive corner "anchors," or thin webbed rubber mats. Tape and adhesive products don't last long, but they're not cheap. And thin, webbed rubber mats lack the durability of felt and rubber construction.
Check out our guide to rug sizes for help answering questions like: What sizes do rugs come in? How do I know what size and shape would look best? There, you'll find a rug size comparison chart for each room to help you decorate.
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