To put an area rug on top of carpet, the primary method involves using a specialized rug pad designed for carpet-to-carpet placement and, where possible, anchoring it with furniture.
Adding an area rug over existing carpet can enhance your room's style, define zones, and add an extra layer of comfort. However, placing a rug on carpet requires preventing it from shifting, wrinkling, or creating trip hazards. The key is using the right underlayment and strategic placement.
Use the Right Pad
The most crucial step is selecting and using a suitable rug pad. Unlike pads used on hard floors, a pad for carpet helps grip the existing carpet fibers while providing a stable surface for the area rug.
- Carpet-to-Carpet Non-Slip Pad: This specific type of pad is designed to prevent movement and ripples when placing an area rug on top of carpet. It creates friction with both the underlying carpet and the area rug, helping the rug lie flat and stay in place. This is especially vital in high-traffic areas like hallways or foyers where the rug is prone to shifting.
Anchoring the Rug
Even with the correct pad, heavy furniture provides extra security against movement.
- Combine Furniture and Pad: For optimal stability, consider anchoring the area rug by combining heavy furniture with a pad underneath. This approach is highly effective, especially if one side or edge of the area rug isn't easily anchored by walls or other fixed elements. Placing the legs of a sofa, chair, or table on the edges of the rug helps hold it down firmly.
- Pad Alone for High-Traffic Areas: When furniture isn't an option, such as in foyers or hallways, relying solely on a quality carpet-to-carpet non-slip pad is essential to prevent ripples and ensure the rug remains a safe, flat surface.
Practical Tips for Placement
- Choose the Right Size: Ensure the area rug is proportional to the room and the furniture arrangement.
- Clean Both Surfaces: Vacuum both the existing carpet and the underside of the area rug before placing the pad to ensure good contact.
- Lay the Pad: Place the carpet-to-carpet pad down first, trimming it slightly smaller (about 1-2 inches) than the area rug on all sides so it's not visible.
- Position the Rug: Carefully lay the area rug on top of the pad, centering it as desired.
- Add Furniture: If possible, place heavy furniture around the edges or on top of the rug to help hold it in place.
By combining a specialized carpet-to-carpet non-slip pad with strategic furniture placement, you can effectively and safely put an area rug on top of existing carpet.
