5 Rug Pad Mistakes to Avoid in 2025 (and What to Use Instead)

Rug pads might seem like a small home accessory, but the wrong one can cause damage to your floors, shorten your rug’s lifespan, and even pose health risks. Whether you’re styling a high-traffic hallway, a cozy reading nook, or a classroom circle time rug, knowing what not to do with rug pads is just as important as picking the right one.

Here are five common rug pad mistakes to avoid in 2025 — plus how to choose a pad that’s built to last.

1. Choosing the Cheapest Option

A cheap rug pad might save you money upfront, but it can cost you more in the long run. Many low-cost options are made with synthetic fillers or adhesives that can off-gas harmful chemicals, damage floors, or break down quickly.

In environments with kids or pets — like classrooms or playrooms — safety matters more than ever. It’s worth investing in a pad made from premium, non-toxic materials. Our RugLock Premium .345″ Felt & Rubber Non-Slip Pad offers high performance without compromising safety. It’s made from recycled felt and natural rubber — no plasticizers or questionable adhesives.

2. Ignoring the Material

Not all rug pad materials work for all floors. Some synthetic rubber or PVC pads can leave stains, scratch hardwood, or cause finish discoloration over time. Your floors deserve better.

Look for rug pads that balance grip and cushioning — like felt for softness, and rubber for stability. Our RugLock Premium pad combines both: the felt side protects your rug and adds plushness, while the rubber side anchors it firmly in place, even in high-traffic zones.

3. Getting the Wrong Size

This one sounds obvious, but it’s a mistake we see often: buying a rug pad that’s either too small (and doesn’t provide coverage) or too large (and peeks out from the rug edges).

When sizing a pad, aim to keep it 1–2 inches smaller than your rug on all sides. With our RugLock Premium pad, you can easily trim the felt to fit perfectly without compromising the grip or structure.

4. Skipping Maintenance

Rug pads are usually “set it and forget it,” but neglecting maintenance can lead to odor build-up or even mold in humid climates. Cheap pads often trap moisture due to poor airflow.

Higher-quality pads like RugLock use breathable materials that help prevent this. Still, it’s smart to lift your rug occasionally, vacuum underneath, and let everything air out now and then — especially in basements or rooms with limited ventilation.

5. Using the Wrong Pad for Your Rug Type

Some rug pads can actually damage your rug — especially delicate, flatweave, or hand-knotted styles. If the pad grips too aggressively or doesn’t allow movement, it can stretch or fray the rug fibers over time.

Always make sure your rug pad is compatible with both the rug and the flooring. RugLock’s dual-sided design makes it safe for use on hardwood, tile, laminate, and most finished surfaces — while offering gentle, reliable support for rugs of all types.

Final Thought: Invest Once, Benefit for Years

The right rug pad makes a difference — not just in how your rug looks and feels, but in how well it holds up over time. Avoiding these common mistakes will save you frustration, and choosing a high-quality option like our RugLock Premium Felt & Rubber Pad ensures your rugs stay secure, your floors protected, and your space looking its best.