If you have a tile floor, you know how unpleasant it can be to step on with bare feet. An area rug could add some warmth and color to a boring, cold floor. Although the idea is certainly appealing, a rug could slip and slide creating an unsafe environment. The chance of a fall with a misplaced foot is a legitimate fear. A rug pad can add extra cushion and safety. What would be the best type of pad under the rug for your tile floor? We've done some searching and have some great recommendations for you.
The best area rug pads for a tile floor are as follows:
- Veken Non-Slip Rug Pad Gripper
- RUGPADUSA Basics Protective Cushioning Rug Pad
- Mohawk Home Dual Surface Felt and Latex Non-Slip Rug Pad
- Gorilla Grip Original Area Rug Gripper Pad
- Durahold Plus Felt and Rubber Patented Non-Skid Rug Pad
Now that you have a list of the best rug pads for tile floors, let's discuss them in a little more detail. We'll expand upon why a rug pad is so important, as well as answer some other questions you might have. Keep reading!
Why do you need a rug pad on a tile floor?
As touched on briefly in the introduction, a rug pad on a tile floor will make the area safe. If you place a rug on a slick surface, especially if it is a thin rug without a backing, the rug can become bunched or unsteady. Children or pets rushing through the kitchen could go sliding. A rug pad provides grip and keeps the rug in its intended spot. By keeping the rug in place, you keep needless friction away from your floors which could wear away at it over time.
Additionally, many rugs intended for tile floors are thin or flimsy. Many area rug pads give additional padding. This could be especially useful around a kitchen sink or oven where one might stand for long periods of time. This could mean a lot less stress on your back and knees.
Let's not forget about the added protection it gives your floors, especially in high traffic areas. A rug in the right spot can keep a stray heel or your pet's claws from scarring the surface of the flooring. Overall, safety and comfort are well enough reasons to get that rug pad! Read our post, "Do You Need Area Rugs On Hardwood Floors?" for more information about area rugs on your non-carpeted surfaces.
Now let's check out the details of the 5 best rug pads for tile floors:
1. Veken Non-Slip Rug Pad Gripper
This rug pad is designed primarily for grip. It's inexpensive and priced anywhere from $15 to around $40 depending on the size. It's also easy to trim, if needed, to fit perfectly under your rug. The open design allows plenty of airflow, so if it is kept in an area (such as a kitchen or a bathroom) with a lot of moisture, it will help the rug dry faster. This pad focuses on the grip but does add a bit of cushion.
Click here to view this rug pad on Amazon.
2. RUGPADUSA Basics Protective Cushioning Rug Pad
This rug pad is made of thick, cushiony felt. The intention of this rug pad focuses on comfort as opposed to grip. Not only does it add comfort, but it also protects any type of flooring from scratches and wear.
Although this rug pad would be quite comfortable to stand on, it does not offer the same slip protection as some other pads we mention. This pad can be used on top of a grip pad so that you have an extra layer of comfort and slip protection.
Click here to view this rug pad on Amazon.
3. Mohawk Home Dual Surface Felt and Latex Non-Slip Rug Pad
This rug pad is made of latex and felt, so it is the best of both worlds! It adds cushion, comfort, and a non-slip grip. Though it is a bit pricier than some of our other options, it comes in multiple thicknesses and is 100% eco-friendly. Many reviews on Amazon indicate it is difficult to trim, so that could be a downside if the pad doesn't perfectly fit underneath your rug.
Click here to view this rug pad on Amazon.
4. Gorilla Grip Original Area Rug Gripper Pad
This rug pad is similar to the first one we mentioned but is lauded to be made of extremely durable material that will last for many years. The product also advertises it has multiple uses, such as being used to grip and open difficult jars or placed under couch cushions that tend to slip. Any place you need a good grip, this product can be trimmed to fit. It comes in multiple sizes and is mid-range in price.
Click here to view this rug pad on Amazon.
5. Durahold Plus Felt and Rubber Patented Non-Skid Rug Pad
This product is made of natural rubber and felt, so it adds comfort and grip under your area rug. This rug pad is the priciest on our list, but it claims to be extremely durable. Due to the hexagonal shape of the felt/rubber combination, it keeps contact with the floor no matter how wet or slippery the conditions, similar to the traction of a tire. The padding contains no plant or animal fibers so there is no outgassing or decomposition.
Click here to view this rug pad on Amazon.
Will rubber backed rugs damage ceramic tile?
Rubber or latex backed rugs won't hurt your ceramic tile but they could affect the grout holding the tiles together. If there are any additional chemicals added to the rubber or latex backing on your rug, it could eat away and affect the integrity of your grout. It's best not to use them on a tiled floor using grout unless you are certain there are no added chemicals.
Should a rug pad be the same size as the rug?
Your rug pad should be slightly smaller than the size of the rug. If the pad is smaller, then the edges of the rug will taper to the floor and keep the pad nice and concealed. Try to leave about an inch on all four sides between the edges of the pad and the rug for the best overall grip and look.
What do you put under a rug to stop it from slipping?
There are a handful of ways to keep a rug from sliding without using a rug pad. The solutions range from super simple to having a little more involvement. So there's sure to be one method that works for you.
1. Purchase a rug with a non-slip backing already installed
Purchasing a rug with an already existing non-slip backing completely eliminates any need for a rug pad.
Click here to view this non-slip backed rug on Amazon.
2. Use silicone caulk
Apply silicone caulk to the bottom of the rug to help keep it in place. Make sure the caulk dries before it touches the floor.
Click here to view this caulk on Amazon.
3. Try attaching it using hot glue
Similar to the silicone caulk, all you have to do is apply the hot glue around the bottom of the rug. Once it dries, the hot glue serves as a gripping agent for the rug. If you have hardwood floors, this may not be the best method for you as it could damage the floors.
Click here to view this hot glue set on Amazon.
4. Carpet Tape
Did you even know such a thing exists? Now you do. Apply carpet tape to the edges of the rug for a strong grip that keeps the rug in place.
Click here to view this carpet tape on Amazon.
5. Use a rubber shelf liner
A rubber shelf liner works similarly to a rug pad. However, it's typically a bit thinner and won't provide any cushioning underfoot.
Click here to view this shelf liner on Amazon.
6. Apply rug anchors
Adhere rug anchors to the corners of your rug to keep it in place. While it keeps the rug firmly in place, you don't have to worry about it leaving any residue behind.
Click here to view these rug anchors on Amazon.
In Closing
Rug pads are practically essential for anyone who wants to have an area rug on a tile floor. They add safety, comfort, and protect your nice floors from wear and tear. With a large variety of rug pads available, you are sure to find the best one for your budget and your particular rug. Happy shopping!
Looking for some ideas for kitchen rugs? Read our post: What's The Best Rug For Hardwood Floors In The Kitchen?