Why does my Rug Keep Slipping and How Can I Prevent it?

Why Does My Rug Slip on Carpet?

Originally it may be hard to understand why rugs are slipping on carpet, it really doesn't make sense right? Rugs in theory should not slip on carpet. However, once you understand that rug and carpet fibers interact with each other in such a way that it reduces friction thereby making the rug move easily. This problem is especially prevalent in places that receive a lot of foot traffic.

How to Prevent Rug Slipping on Carpet

Use Rug Pads

The use of a good quality underlay such as our very own Anti-Slip Underlay, can help in making a grippy surface between the rug and the carpet. These pads can be used to combat the frictionless surface that the rug and carpet fibres create and therefore reduce the chances of slipping. Rug pads may consist of rubber or felt or, a mix of both depending on the design, and work at gripping on to the carpet fibers while at the same time offering an added layer of cushioning.

Benefits of Using Rug Pads:

• Enhanced Grip: The backing material of rubberized felt enhances the rug pad’s traction or grip on the rug so as to prevent slipping.
• Floor Protection: Rug pads act as a barrier between the rug and the carpet below thereby helping the rug last longer without getting damaged by the carpet and at the same time helping the carpet last longer.
• Comfort: While rug pads are important to enhance the durability of the rug and protect the subfloor, they also add an extra layer of softness and comfort to the rug.
• Noise Reduction: Apart from acting as cushioning to prevent the carpet from sliding, rug pads also minimize sound, making your environment quieter and serene.

It is very easy to utilize a rug pad; you have to measure the rug that you intend to lay on then buy a pad that fits under the rug. It is also possible to cut the pad to the required dimensions in case of the need to adjust it to the automobile interior. Put the pad on the carpet and set the rug on it, make sure the rug is properly positioned and uniformly placed.

Double-Sided Tape

For a more temporary fix, you can use double-sided carpet tape on the edges of the rugs. This method is easy to use, although some of it might wear out and require constant changing. Double-sided tape is especially effective to use in areas with small rugs or rugs that are in the form of a narrow strip because it is likely for them to move from one place to another.

Benefits of Using Double-Sided Tape:

• Easy Application: There is no need to drive nails into the floor – you just have to remove the backing of the tape and then attach the tape to the underside of the rug. Press it firmly down to have a good adhesion both to the surface of the rug and to the surface of the carpet.
• Versatility: Double sided tape is appropriate to use on many different types of rugs and carpets and therefore can be used in various parts of your house.
• Cost-Effective: It is a cost-effective solution for solving the issue related to rug slippage, so you will not have to purchase anything more than a kit.

Anchor with Furniture

Using large and heavy furniture like sofas and chairs and placing them at the corners of the rug is equally important for holding the rug firmly to the floor. Of course, this method is most effective when the rug is quite sizable and occupies an important place on the floor. To avoid this, you can strategically place furniture like sofas, chairs, coffee tables, bookshelves or even consider adding weights on the rug to minimize the chances of it moving.

Benefits of Anchoring with Furniture:

• Stability: The furniture adds weight to the rug to ensure that it does not slip around the house regularly.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Designing with furniture around your rug can help improve the appearance of your interior and create a structured design by defining various zones.
• Multi-Functional: This saves you from making unnecessary movements but also provide you with the opportunity to arrange your furniture in a manner that creates the best flow of the room.

Why Does My Rug Slip on Hard Floors and Tiles?

It is easier to prevent slippage on hard floors but like most things, it has its issues. Rugs with a smoother backing which people prefer not to scratch the floor can easily slide over the floor which is most common with thin or lightweight rugs. The most slippery types of floors include tile, timber, hybrid, laminate, and vinyl. Learning this can assist you when it comes to rugs that slip. In the same way we solve our carpet on rugs issue we can solve some of our hardwood floor and tile issues; rugpads, double sided tape and furniture anchoring.

However, there are additional things you can use that can also help prevent slippage. 

Layering Rugs

Layering a smaller rug over a larger, the use of laying a small rug on a larger and non-slip one can help in adding some stability as well as beauty.

Benefits of Layering Rugs:

• Enhanced Stability: The non-slip rug is bigger than the other rug, and hence it acts as a base for the small rug.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Stacking of rugs can give it a fashionable and a multilayered appearance.

How to Layer Rugs:

1. Choose Complementary Rugs: Select a larger non-slip rug and a smaller rug that complement each other in color and design.
2. Place the Larger Rug: Lay the larger rug down first, ensuring it is secure.
3. Position the Smaller Rug: Place the smaller rug on top, adjusting it to your desired position.

Velcro Strips

Attaching Velcro strips to the rug and the floor can provide a secure hold, preventing the rug from moving.

Benefits of Using Velcro Strips:

• Strong Hold: Velcro provides a strong bond that can keep the rug in place.
• Reusability: Velcro strips can be adjusted and reused as needed.
• Discreet: The strips are typically hidden beneath the rug, maintaining the rug’s appearance.

How to Use Velcro Strips:

1. Clean the Surfaces: Ensure the rug and the floor are clean and dry.
2. Cut the Strips: Cut the Velcro strips to size.
3. Attach the Strips: Stick one side of the Velcro to the underside of the rug and the other side to the floor.
4. Press Firmly: Press the rug down to ensure the Velcro adheres properly.

Non-Slip Spray

Applying a non-slip spray to the underside of the rug can enhance its grip on hard surfaces. This spray creates a tacky surface that helps prevent movement.

Benefits of Non-Slip Spray:

• Easy Application: Simply spray the underside of the rug and let it dry.
• Effective Grip: The tacky surface created by the spray helps to keep the rug in place.
• Versatile Use: Non-slip spray can be used on various types of rugs and floors.

How to Apply Non-Slip Spray:

1. Clean the Rug: Ensure the underside of the rug is clean and dry.
2. Apply the Spray: Evenly spray the underside of the rug.
3. Let it Dry: Allow the spray to dry completely before placing the rug on the floor.