5 Tips on How to Keep Rugs from Moving on Carpet 

Are you in love with your rug and carpet combination, but you just can’t figure out how to keep your rug from moving on your carpet? Rugs tend to slip, slide and bunch when layered on the carpet, which is not only frustrating, but can also present a tripping hazard. We’ve compiled our top tips on how to keep your rugs from sliding on carpet, from non-slip mats to carpet tape. 

How to Keep Rugs from Slipping on Carpet

Why do rugs move on carpet? When you place a rug, runner or mat on a carpet, you might notice it gradually creeping across the floor. This is because the rug follows the carpet’s pile movement. Because the pile leans to one side, it can mean that any rug placed on top of the carpet will gradually move in the same direction. Naturally, it can be frustrating to be constantly repositioning your perfectly-placed rug, but our guide on how to keep rugs from moving on the carpet should provide you with solutions to your rug frustrations.

1. Anchor it with furniture

Using furniture as an anchor with large area rugs can be an excellent way to keep your rug from sliding on your carpet, not only from a practical perspective, but from a design one too. Using rugs on top of carpet can be a controversial topic in the interior design world, but we firmly believe layering rugs and carpets with strategically-placed furniture can be a match made in heaven – if used carefully. Check out our blog for our top design tips on pairing rugs with carpet. 

2. Add a non-slip rug pad

Non-slip underlays are one of the most effective ways of preventing your rug from sliding or bunching on carpet; this method allows you to secure your rug into place without damaging your existing carpet or floors. In addition, if you’ve already purchased your dream rug and you simply want it secured into place, then the quickest and easiest way to do this is to use a rug non-slip underlay mat. You’ll be glad to hear that you can purchase these as stand-alone products and they are available in various sizes. Non-slip underlays can also be cut down to ensure they fit your rug perfectly. You then place the mat on your carpet, and the rug will sit securely on top. It’s as simple as that!

Top tip: the width and length of the underlay should be at least 5cm / 2 inches shorter than that of the rug or runner. Otherwise, you may find the rug’s edges lift which can cause a tripping hazard. Additionally, you don’t want any underlay poking out around the edges and ruining the effect.

3. Use double-sided rug tape

Using double-sided carpet tape is an easy and inexpensive way to stop your area rug from creeping and wrinkling on the carpet. All you need to do is apply the tape directly on the back of your rug and then press it in place. The tape will make both the area rug and carpet stick together, thus preventing it from slipping.

Be sure you purchase double-sided tape designed for carpets, as some rug tapes are designed to be used on hard flooring and may damage your carpet. Since carpet tape is designed for use on carpets, it will not leave any damage or residue on your rug or carpet.

4. Choose rugs with non-slip rubber backing

If you have yet to purchase your area rug, why not shop around for an anti-slip rug with a non-slip rubber back already attached? Notably, this type of rug is easy to find on the market and comes in various sizes, styles and shapes. The extra grip comes from a latex gel backing that provides extra grip on both hard floors and carpets.

The effectiveness of your non-slip rubber backing will depend on the type and thickness of your current carpet and underlay. If you have a new, high pile carpet, you may need to add additional non-slip measures like double-sided tape or anchoring your rug with furniture to keep your rug extra secure.

5.  Invest in a quality rug

In most cases, high-quality rugs are better in quality and heavier in weight compared to cheaper, thinner rugs. Also, one of the reasons expensive rugs cost more is because they are made with premium backing. They also have a thicker, plusher pile and the premium backing provides stability and weight, which can help keep your rug from sliding on carpet.

Now that you know how to keep your rug from moving on carpet, why not head to our blog to discover our expert advice on decorating hardwood floors with rugs. If you are still unsure about finding the best rug for your carpet, then please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team. We are more than happy to offer our expert advice to find the perfect rug for your home!