Easy Ways to Make Throw Rugs Non-Slip

Rugs without attached latex backing are ideal for carpeted areas, but they are not always great for linoleum, wood and other potentially slick flooring. On the upside, they usually last much longer. Attached latex backing eventually wears away. It comes off in pieces during the washing and drying process, and it usually happens long before the carpets are too worn for use. Forget about buying new non-slip carpets. Use these easy ways to make throw rugs non-slip. They will last far longer than those that are coated with rubber.

Cut Cheap Foam Mattress Pads to Size

If you have a cheap foam mattress pad that ripped or is no longer being used, cut it into non-slip pads to keep your throw rugs in place. Trace around the rugs with a fine-tip marker. Otherwise, cut around them about an eighth of an inch inside the perimeter. They should stay in place. If you find yourself continuously repositioning the throw rugs and the non-slip padding, stitch Velcro brand fasteners to the backs of the corners and add one or two along each side.

Apply Strips of Latex Caulking or Hot Glue

Liquid latex or costly peel-and-stick non-slip throw rug strips are not the only other ways to keep your carpets from slipping and sliding around on smooth floors. Place them on a flat surface with the wrong side up. Apply strips of latex caulking or hot glue across the width of the throw rugs every four to six inches. Allow it to dry completely before handling or turning them over. The latex caulking or hot dried glue will create a non-slip tread. Keep in mind that it could come off when machine washing and drying. When washing becomes necessary, use the delicate cycle and dry them on a line for best results.

Use Foam Shelf Liner to Make Non-Slip Carpet Squares

Foam shelf liner is good for more than just keeping cupboards clean and free from scratches. It can be used to create a non-slip backing for small throw rugs, especially carpets with rough backings. Cut the liner to size after tracing the edges, or trim it without creating a stencil. Place it on the floor beneath the carpets, or permanently attach it using hot glue. Rough carpet remnants will no longer scratch smooth floors or sand down wall-to-wall carpeting when walked on. The foam shelf liner will create a non-slip surface, and for less than the cost of specialty backings.

Source: Professional Home Decorating and Green Living Experience