How to Stop a Rug from Slipping on a Hard Floor

Modern Rugs


Modern rugs are weaved using a variety of materials. Some of them are light in weight and are a better choice to fit in specific areas, like hard floors. But if you don’t choose the right rug, there is a high chance of the rug slipping. It could result in severe damage your furniture, as well as even injuring yourself. So, you need a good rug that won’t slip on hard floors.

To help you understand the importance of a safe rug, here are just a few of the problems you can expect if your rug slips.

What are the problems caused by slipping rugs?
  • Trip and fall hazards
Rugs placed on smooth floor can easily cause you to trip and fall. If there are elderly people or children in your house, this could be more risky as they are more likely to lose their balance and fall. They can get be seriously injured and need to recover for a long period of time.
  • Damage furniture
A rug that slips can also damage furniture. Your chairs and tables become unstable if a rug slips and become damaged or cause damage to the rug or floor.
  • Rug damage
The unnecessary stress put on the rug when it slips out from under your feet or furniture can damage it. It doesn’t matter if it is a cheap or expensive rug, it may tear. The rug may become so damaged you have to replace it entirely.

When is this likely to be a problem?

Rugs usually become more slippery when they're placed on smooth flooring like timber, glossy tiles, vinyl tiles or polished stone. If you have lightweight rugs over such floors, they will slip easily, leading to injury and damages.

The movement of rugs on such floors can be a huge problem. To avoid this, you need to find a solution, like the ones suggested below.

Different ways to stop rugs from slipping
  • Rubber or felt rug pads
If you have flat weaved rugs which are more prone to sliding, it is best to place a rubber rug pad underneath them. These pads do a great job at keeping rug sin their place without damaging them. Use natural rubber pads that are made of non-adhesive materials that will hold your rug still without sticking to them.

Felt rug pads are also a good option. These are made from combining rubber and felt through a heating method. This process produces a non-slippery, natural and long-lasting material which is also recyclable. These rug pads are also recommended for larger rugs and you can place heavy furniture on them without any fear. Read our another article on "How to Up cycle your Old Rug"
  • Non-skid rubber shelf liner
Rubber shelf liners are a good alternative to rug pads. They can be cut down in several strips according to the length or width of your rug. These strips are laid down on the floor and then the rug is placed over them. Make sure there are no wrinkles in the liner before laying the rug down.

This is one of the most economical options to keep your rugs from moving, although you will need to regularly check that dust and dirt aren’t getting trapped under the rug and liners.
  • Double-sided rug tape
Double-sided rug tape is another good option to stop your rug from slipping. For this, place the rug where you want it to stay, ensuring there are no creases. Roll it back halfway, sticking tape on the edges of the underside. Roll the rug out again, patting it down where the tape is to ensure it sticks. Repeat this process to the other half of the rug.
  • Secure rug under furniture
A simple way to stop rugs from slipping is by anchoring them with heavy furniture, like a couch or dining table. This could be a good alternative if you don’t have any of the above materials available or you want to avoid using adhesives and other products on your floor.

This is a popular approach with many homeowners but remember only heavyweight furniture is can be used for this method. If you place your rug under a light piece of furniture, it can still slip, injuring you and even damaging the furniture.