When looking for a rug pad for your home, it’s important to consider the thickness of the rug that the pad will be placed under, as this will ensure that your rug does not become a tripping hazard. However, another thing to consider is the material that the rug pad is made of. This is because some materials offer different benefits than others.
Certification
Many suppliers of rug pads have been environmentally certified, meaning that they can validate the source materials their rug pads are made of. This ensures that any statements about a rug pad, such as that it’s been made of recycled materials, can be verified. The same is true of any rug pad claiming to adhere to regulations for indoor air quality.
Natural Materials
Many claim that rug pads made of natural materials are the ideal choice. The most common types of natural rug pads are recycled felt and 100% natural rubber. However, rug pads made from wool are also popular. The reason natural rug pads are so popular is because rubber, felt and wool materials are very dense, which provide a rug with stability. As well thee materials do no damage to floor finishes, regardless of flooring type. Natural rug pads can work as well on hardwood and vinyl floors as they do tile or carpeting.
Consideration for Felt Rug Pads
If you have or plan to buy an Oriental rug, then a felt rug bad is best. This especially popular rug pad material will provide a luxurious feel whilst at the same time providing heat and sound insulation. The felt rug pad will not completely prevent the rug from moving, however. But the good news is that this is easily overcome by purchasing a felt and rubber combination rug pad.
Considerations for Wool Rug Pads
Wool rug pads are ideal for those with latex allergies, although they may not be the best choice for those with airborne allergies. Not only is wool renewable, but it’s also sustainable and biodegradable. In addition, wool offers safety because it is naturally flame retardant. It also works well in situations where sound-proofing and thermal insulation is required.
Considerations for Natural Rubber Rug Pads
Rug pads made of natural rubber work best where you need to ensure no slipping, but also where there is limited space for clearance, such as beneath a door. Unfortunately, the majority of natural rubber rug pads offer neither cushioning nor insulation as their felt and rubber counterparts do.
Pads for Rugs on Carpeting
Placing a rug on top of carpeting can create an attractive focal point in a room or bring other room elements together. But in order to ensure that the rug doesn’t sink into the carpeting due to foot traffic or the weight of furniture, a dense rug pad is needed. As well, the thickness should be around ¼ inch. Most pads for placement on carpets in Bedford contain one texture to adhere to the bottom of the rug, and a different texture – usually felt – which grabs the carpeting below the pad.
Proper Sizing of Rug Pads
When measuring for your rug pad, ensure that it is about one inch smaller on every side than the size of your rug. This will allow for the relaxing of the rug edges to the floor.
Any rug pad can be cleaned by sponging it or brushing gently using a scrub brush and a water/mild detergent mix. As far as cost is concerned, quality pads made of rubber or felt will typically cost more than their lower-quality PVC counterparts. However, there are many rug pad types on the market, meaning there is a perfect rug pad for your budget.