No matter whether you’ve just moved into a new apartment with wall-to-wall carpets that you want to make a little more interesting with a few area rugs or a new rug, or you are looking into redecorating your old home, this guide is for you if you are dealing with the issue of rug moving. Some new rugs, or thinner rugs in general, may cause a carpet pile, or simply move constantly on carpeted floors, as well as on hard floors and laminate flooring. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this problem that will allow you to fully enjoy your new rugs without having to chase them around the room.
Why do rugs move on carpet?
The main reason rugs move on carpet is because most rugs follow the carpet pile movement when pressure is applied on the edges of them by footsteps, affecting the carpet underneath.
First, the footsteps move the carpet pile, and then the carpet pile transfers the motion to the rug itself. One thing you need to know in that regard is that the majority of carpets are installed in such a way that the carpet pile faces the entrance of the room. By doing so, the colors and texture of the carpet itself look richer, making it the most aesthetically logical choice. On the other hand, once you enter the room, your footsteps immediately start moving the carpet pile in the direction you’ve entered. This makes any rug you step on going toward the door. Carpets with longer fibers have less grip on your rugs. Because of this, rugs move on carpets with plushier texture, such as high pile carpet, more than those with less prominent fibers.
To combat this, many people use rug grippers, which are particularly effective on low-pile carpets but may have limitations on plushier carpets with long piles.
Use double sided rug tape
The most straightforward way to prevent your rugs from moving on carpets of any kind is to use good old carpet tape. Double-sided carpet tape comes with a lot of pros. First and foremost, it is very easy to install. You just need to place it on the bottom of the rug you need to keep in place, and then tape said rug to the carpet.
However, it’s important to consider the type of adhesive used in double sided tape, as some can damage the carpet when removed. It is also the most cost-effective solution that you can resort to. There is some risk of rug tapes damaging both the rug and the carpet you are taping, but it all depends on the particular materials. The most prominent negative side of using rug tape is that it is not a long-term solution. Very soon the rug tape will wear off and you will either have to replace it or opt for a more durable solution.
Add a non slip rug pad to prevent rugs from moving
Another thing you can do is buy a special anti-slip underlay, also known as a non slip rug pad, to keep your rugs in check. These also go by the name of rug pads. These pads are also effective on hard floors, including laminate floors, providing added grip and preventing slipping. The anti-slip underlay, or non slip rug pad, is placed between your rug and the carpet. It is made of natural rubber, felt, or another anti-slip material that helps keep your rugs in one place. They are very easy to install and they are a long-term solution because natural rubber is generally a very durable material. You will also not risk damaging your rugs using the anti-slip mat or underlay. However, you should consider your budget carefully, because non-slip rug pads can be pretty expensive.
Use furniture as an anchor
If you can’t stand the idea of a moving rug on carpets, but at the same time you have many rugs in all the rooms in your home, you might be on the market for a really cost-effective solution. Another stylish and functional approach is layering rugs, which can add depth to your decor while also helping to keep the rugs in place. Fortunately for you, there is one that will not cost you a single penny. All you will have to do is anchor your rugs with the furniture you have available in the rooms. For that purpose, you will need to lift the chair, sofa, or drawer that you will use to keep your rugs in place and place one corner of the rug under it. The sheer weight of the furniture will prevent any rug from moving. Now, even though using furniture as anchors is not an expensive solution, bear in mind that it may seriously damage your rugs. This is particularly true if the furniture in question is heavy. The most vulnerable areas will be directly under the legs of the furniture. Because of this, it will be a good idea to use furniture to prevent rugs from moving only as a last-resort, temporary solution.
Buy a rug with a non-slip backing
The most effective way to avoid tripping hazards and aesthetic floor blunders from rugs moving is to buy such with non-slick backing, which benefits both the carpet and the rug. This is especially important for rugs placed on wooden or laminate floors, where the risk of skidding is higher. These tend to be a little more expensive, and availability might be an issue. If you are on the market for lighter rugs they may also not be your best bet, as they tend to fall into the heavy rug category. Non-slip-backed area rugs tend to have medium longevity but are a simple enough solution if you find one that fits your preferences.
