Laying an area rug over carpet can transform your space.
In this post, you’ll learn how to choose the right rug and prevent slipping.
Discover tips to keep your rug flat and ripple-free.
We’ll also cover essential maintenance to ensure long-lasting beauty.
Ready to enhance your decor?
Start reading now!
Choose the Right Rug
Consider the texture and pile height of your carpet.
- A low-profile, flat-weave rug works best over short-pile or looped carpet.
- Avoid placing a very plush rug over an already plush carpet.
- It can look awkward.
- And feel uneven underfoot.
Pick a rug size that’s proportional to your room and furniture arrangement.
- You want it large enough to anchor the space.
- But not so big that it overwhelms the room.
- For a living room, an 8’x10′ rug often works well.
- The front legs of sofas and chairs should sit on the rug to hold it in place.
Select a rug that complements your existing decor.
- In terms of color, pattern and style.
- Don’t be afraid to mix textures between the rug and carpet for visual interest.
- Just be sure to coordinate the colors.
Prevent Slipping and Rippling
The key to a polished look is keeping your area rug flat and ripple-free.
Ripples occur when the rug shifts. This creates a “wave” that’s unsightly.
And a tripping hazard.
Here’s how to keep your rug in place:
Use a Rug Pad
Place a non-slip rug pad between the rug and carpet.
- Look for “carpet-to-carpet” pads specifically designed for this purpose.
- They grip the rug and carpet to prevent shifting and rippling.
- And also provide cushioning and protection.
- My top picks are felt-and-rubber combo pads.
- They offer the best of both materials.
- The rubber grips while the felt adds cushioning.
- They work well on any floor type.
- And are durable and eco-friendlier than plastic pads.
- If you want a low-profile look, choose a thin carpet-to-carpet pad.
- Or rug grippers that adhere just to the corners.
- Rather than a thick cushioned pad.
Anchor with Furniture
Placing heavy furniture on the rug helps hold it in place.
- Aim to anchor it on all four sides if possible.
- Or at least on two opposite sides.
- With the rug’s edges extending under the furniture.
- A rug pad is still beneficial even with furniture anchoring.
- It prevents uneven wear.
- Adds cushioning to protect the rug.
- And keeps the entire rug surface flat.
Address Problem Areas
For stubborn ripples or curled corners, try using double-sided carpet tape.
- Or silicone caulk to adhere the rug directly to the carpet.
- Apply it sparingly.
- And press firmly.
- If rippling persists, the rug may be too small for the space.
- Consider sizing up to a larger rug.
- That can be properly anchored.
Maintain Your Rug
With proper care, your area rug can look beautiful for years to come.
Even over carpet.
Here are a few maintenance tips:
- Vacuum your rug regularly on its gentlest setting.
Be careful not to catch the edges under the beater bar. - Rotate the rug 180 degrees periodically.
To distribute wear evenly. - Clean under the rug occasionally.
To remove dirt and debris.
That can cause excess wear on the carpet below. - Address spills immediately.
By blotting – never rubbing.
With a clean, damp cloth.
With these tips, you’ll be able to confidently lay an area rug over your carpet.
For a finished, polished look.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.
I’m always happy to help!