It can be really frustrating when your area rug won't stay in place. So, if you're tired of readjusting your area rug every time you walk into the room, you may be wondering what your options are to keep it in place. You might have heard of some options for hardwood or laminate flooring, but what if your rug is on carpet? Well, we've researched the topic in depth and have some suggestions for you!
To stop a rug from slipping on the carpet, you can put the following under the rug:
- Rug grippers
- Rug pad spray
- Double-sided rug tape
- Rug pad
- Caulk or hot glue
Now you have a few options to put under your rug to prevent it from moving on the carpet, but keep reading as we elaborate on each one further. We'll go over what exactly each one is and how it works. We'll also answer some other questions you might have about your area rug on carpet including whether placing an area rug on carpet is a design faux pas.
![Interior Of A Living Room with carpet, What To Put Under A Rug That's On Carpet [5 Suggestions]](https://uooz.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/What-To-Put-Under-A-Rug-Thats-On-Carpet-5-Suggestions.png)
1. Rug Grippers
Rug grippers come in various shapes and sizes. You can expect to find them available in squares, corner shapes, or rhomboid-shaped strips.
Whichever shape you choose, the method and location of installation are generally the same. The rug grippers will come with double-sided adhesive. One side will stick to the corner of the rug and the other to the floor.
Do rug grippers work on carpet?
Some brands of rug grippers will work on carpet. However, there is also a large variety that is not designed for use on carpet. Make sure to check the manufacturer's packaging and instructions before purchasing. Choose a rug gripper that has it specifically stated in its uses that it is safe for use on carpet.
If you try to choose one that is not designed for rugs on the carpet, you may end up damaging the carpet with the adhesive.
Click here to see these rug grippers on Amazon.
2. Rug Pad Spray
Rug pad spray comes in an aerosol can and can be sprayed to the underside of your rug to keep it from slipping. It is safe to use on any type of flooring and carpet.
It bonds to the back of the rug and helps create traction between the rug and the carpet which prevents it from sliding. Another plus side to rug pad spray is that it also has lots of other practical uses including helping keep placemats in place on tables.
Click here to see this rug pad spray on Amazon.
3. Double-Sided Rug Tape
Double-sided rug tape works like rug grippers do. However, you have more freedom with where you put it and how much you apply.
You can simply cut it to size and apply it to the underside of your rug. Most manufacturers will recommend you test a small piece first though just to make sure it's compatible with your two surfaces.
Unlike some of the rug grippers, it's also residue free so it won't leave any mess or adhesive on your carpet or your rug. However, if you do have trouble removing it, you can apply heat from a hairdryer to help loosen the adhesive, and you should be able to wipe it away.
Each brand may vary slightly, so you should follow all directions on the packaging.
Click here to see this rug tape on Amazon.
4. Rug Pad
There are rug pads available for both carpet and hardwood floors, so be sure to pick one designed to go on carpet. Rug pads are almost the same size as the rug and fit underneath your rug between the rug and your carpet.
A rug pad can also provide additional benefits including extra padding for underfoot and extra protection for your rug.
Do non-skid rug pads work on carpet?
Non-skid rug pads work on carpet as long as they are made to do so. You will notice that some non-skid rug pads are only designed for hardwood or other non-carpeted surfaces.
When looking at purchasing options, be sure to pick one that is specifically for use on carpet. If you don't, you risk causing an injury if the product fails.
Should rug pads be smaller than the rug?
Rug pads should be smaller than the rug but only slightly. You will need the pad to be as close to the edge as possible so that it will hold the edges in place and stop them from curling up.
Most rug pads will be sold by rug size, so you can be sure to get the right size. However, most are also trimmable, so you can cut them down in size if need be.
Click here to see this rug pad on Amazon.
5. Caulk or Hot Glue
This option is much different from the others we've suggested because it does require a little work from you.
This method should also only be used on rugs that you didn't spend a whole lot of money on. We say this because it will leave a permanent mark on the bottom of the rug. Despite its differences, the idea to create a layer of traction is the same.
For this method, you will use silicone caulk or hot glue. Turn your rug over and apply the caulk or hot glue along the back of your rug. Just be sure to let it dry before you turn it back over and try it on your carpet. Otherwise, you could risk gluing the rug to the carpet, and that could be an expensive mistake to make.
For a visual demonstration on how to do this, check out this helpful YouTube tutorial that will walk you through the process step by step:
How else can I keep my rug in place?
Another way to keep your rug in place that doesn't involve putting anything under it is to anchor it in place using your furniture. For a living room, this might mean placing your sofa over the edge of the rug or using a coffee table. For an office, maybe the desk can help keep it in place.
You could also try anchoring the rug in place with rug pins. Rug pins go through the rug and carpet to secure them together. For these to work, your rug and carpet cannot be thicker than one inch.
Click here to see these rug pins on Amazon.
Is it okay to put an area rug over wall-to-wall carpet?
It is okay to put an area rug over wall-to-wall carpet. There are many reasons why you might want to. Not only can it complete the look of a room and pull all of your decor together but it can also help protect the carpet underneath and create a more pleasant surface to walk on.
Take a look at some examples of rooms you might want to put an area rug in even if you have carpet.
Living Room
This rug adds a layer of coziness and helps complete the boho style aesthetic in this living room.
Bedroom
In this room, the area rug helps make the bed the center of attention and helps tie the entire look together. Adding an area rug over your carpet is a great way to change the style of your room without having to think about removing your carpet.
Office
Make your home office even cozier by adding some area rugs over your carpet. Speaking of area rugs under tables, if your dining room has carpet, you may want to add a cheap area rug under your dining table, too. That way the area rug can take any spills or messes and protect your carpet from any lasting stains.
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of options when it comes to keeping a rug from sliding on the carpet. Hopefully, our article has given you a thorough idea of each one.
Fortunately, all of the methods are relatively inexpensive, and many of the solutions also have other great uses, making it an even better deal. Either way, you should have a slip-free rug in no time! Good luck!
For more reading on the topic of carpet, check out some of these other posts: