Rug pads can have many benefits for people with area rugs, but they aren’t suitable for all rugs or in all situations. Many people don’t know when or if they should get pads for their rugs.

One of the biggest dangers facing your rug is common ordinary dirt. Dirt and sand is made largely of silica, which is what they make glass out of. As rugs wear, they’re worth less money. There are three main ways a rug pad can help protect your investment in your rugs and make your home safer.

1. A good quality rug pad provides a shock absorbing layer between your rug and the floor. This cushions the rug and helps keep dirt and grit from cutting the fibers of your rug. Rug Padding allows the dirt to filter away from the rug and into the pad. Therefore, rugs with pads will last longer and tend to hold their value longer.
2. They help loose-weave rugs stay flat on the floor and can help prevent these rugs from slipping. Rugs with pads can be safer and can help eliminate tripping hazards.
3. The shock absorbing qualities of pads can help rugs to last longer in high traffic areas, areas with heavy furniture, or areas with uneven floors.

Here are some tips and things to consider when choosing a rug pad. All rug pads will decompose over time. As rug pads deteriorate, they can stick to the floor or the rugs. This damage can be hard to fix, so it’s important to replace your rug pad before it breaks down. Low-quality rug pads can quickly deteriorate, and sometimes the materials used in these lower quality pads can off gas and permanently discolor the floor under the pad.