If you have a rug on top of a carpet, although they can be a wonderful addition to your home, adding warmth, comfort, and style to any room; you may have noticed that it tends to slide or bunch up over time. This common frustration many homeowners face is the constant shifting and slipping of rugs on carpeted floors. Not only does it look untidy, but it can also pose a tripping hazard, as it can cause you to trip or fall. Therefore, ‘how to stop a rug from moving on carpet’ is one of the most common question we get from people.

Fortunately, there are some easy ways to prevent your rug from moving on your carpet and keep it in place. In our past articles, we discussed rug vs carpet and the lifespan of your carpet; check them out if this slipping frustrates you and you are wondering whether you should have both carpet and rug simultaneously. For now, here are some simple and helpful tips to help you stop rug movement on carpet and create a stable and comfortable floor:

1. Stop Rug Moving on Carpet

Before we dive into the tips for keeping your rug in place on carpet, let’s understand why rugs tend to move in the first place. The primary reason for rug movement on carpeted floors is the difference in textures between the rug and the carpet. The smooth underside of the rug, when placed on the textured surface of the carpet, creates friction that causes the rug to slide.

To prevent this annoying issue, you can employ various methods to secure your rug in place and enjoy a stable and safe living space.

2. Keep Rug in Place

One effective way to keep your rug from sliding on the carpet is by using rug underlay or rug pads. These non-slip materials are designed to grip both the rug and the carpet, creating a strong bond that prevents movement. Make sure to choose a rug pad that is compatible with your carpet type and thickness and that is specifically designed for using on carpets, as they have a different texture and grip than those intended for hard flooring.

3. Prevent Rug from Slipping

Double-sided carpet tape is another excellent tool to prevent your rug from slipping. This can be a quick and easy solution, but it may not work well for thick or plush carpets. Be careful not to damage your carpet fibres when you remove the tape. Therefore, You may want to test a small area first before applying the tape to the whole rug. 

How does it work? It works by sticking the underside of the rug to the carpet, providing a strong bond that resists movement. To use double-sided carpet tape, simply cut the tape into strips and place them along the edges and corners of the rug. Be sure to remove any tape residue when you decide to reposition or remove the rug.

For thicker carpets, you can use velcro strips. Velcro strips are similar to double-sided tape, but they use hooks and loops to attach the rug to the carpet. As a result, they can be more durable and adjustable than tape. However, they may also leave marks or residue on your carpet, so use them with caution.

4. Secure Rug to Carpet

For those who want a more permanent solution to rug movement on carpet, consider using rug anchors or rug grippers. Rug anchors are plastic devices that grip both the rug and the carpet beneath it, holding them securely in place. Rug grippers are similar but are usually made of rubber or silicone, offering an even stronger grip. To use these tools, simply press them firmly into the carpet and attach them to the corners or edges of your rug. 

In addition to grippers and anchors, you can use anti-slip spray. Anti-slip spray is a product that you can spray on the back of your rug to make it more grippy and resistant to sliding. It can be a convenient and effective way to stop rug moving on carpet, but it may not last long and it may need frequent reapplication. Therefore, they are temporary solutions that you can deploy before a big party for a couple of hours. Furthermore, make sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying too much or too close to the rug.

In addition to the above methods, there are some additional tips that can help keep rug in pace movement on carpet:

• Regular Cleaning: Dirt and dust can accumulate between the rug and carpet, reducing friction and making it easier for the rug to slide. Regularly vacuuming both the rug and the carpet underneath can help maintain a better grip.
• Choose the Right Rug: Some rug materials are more prone to slipping than others. Rugs with natural rubber or latex backing tend to stay in place better on carpeted floors. Machine-made rugs are not good for carpets due to their low weight. On the other hand, handmade rugs with natural fibers such as wool are much better for carpets.
• Consider Rug Weight: Heavier rugs are less likely to move than lighter ones. High-quality rugs such as Persian rugs can be an example that is perfect for using on carpets due to their heavy weight. If your rug is particularly lightweight, using one of the methods mentioned above becomes even more crucial and important.

In conclusion, dealing with rug movement on carpeted floors is a common issue that can be easily resolved with the right tools and techniques. By using rug pads, double-sided carpet tape, carpet anchors, or rug grippers, you can keep your rugs securely in place and enjoy a stable and safe living environment. Additionally, regular cleaning and choosing the right rug material can further enhance the stability of your rugs on carpeted surfaces. We hope that you enjoy this article and that it helps you solve a very annoying struggle. Please share your own solution in the comments on how to keep a rug on carpet from moving!