How to Make a Rug Pad Stick Again

Clean the floor, rug and pad to improve the rug pad's stickiness.

Rug pads are typically made of rubber or a rubber-like composite material. The rug pads serve to increase the amount of friction between the rug and the underlying floor. A new pad will be somewhat sticky, but over time the pads will lose their stickiness and their effectiveness decreases as a result. Sand, dirt, dust and pet hair tend to accumulate under the rug. The debris sticks to the pad, thereby reducing its ability to adhere to the floor and the area rug. Cleaning is the key to remedying this problem.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum
• Mop
• Bucket
• Floor cleaner
• Dish soap

Instructions

1. Vacuum both sides of the rug to remove sand, dirt, dust and pet hair. Vacuum the plush side of the rug first, then flip the rug to vacuum the underside.

2. Roll up the rug and place it aside.

3. Pull up the rug pad and vacuum the underlying flooring.

4. Mop the flooring and allow it to air dry.

5. Wash the rug pad in a sink filled with warm water and a dollop of dish soap.

6. Rinse the rug pad and set it on a flat surface to air dry.

7. Place the clean, dry rug pad atop the clean floor and replace the rug.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not place the rug pad in a clothes dryer. The heat will degrade the rubber.

• Vacuum and sweep on a regular basis to avoid the accumulation of dust, dirt and pet hair. Dirt and debris can work its way through the rug, so keeping it clean will mean less frequent cleanings for the rug pad.