How to Glue a Scatter Rug to a Kitchen Floor for Safety for Seniors

Area rugs that are not secured to the floor pose a falling hazard, especially for seniors.

Falls in the home are a common cause of serious physical and potentially life-threatening events for seniors. Any part of the home with smooth flooring (not carpeted) poses a hazard for slipping and falling, especially in areas that are sometimes wet, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Scatter rugs, also called area rugs, can reduce the risk of slipping, but must be securely affixed to the floor. A scatter rug that moves under your feet can be as dangerous as a wet floor. Fortunately, there are many commercially-available options for securing scatter rugs to the floor.

Things You'll Need

• Rug grip spray
• Rolled rug grip mat
• Rug grip paint
• 4-inch paintbrush
• Marker
• Scissors

Instructions

Non-skid Spray

1. Hang the rug on a fence or clothesline, in a well-ventilated area, preferably outside.

2. Agitate the contents of the can of non-skid spray by shaking, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Hold the can upright and spray the non-skid rug-backing spray onto the back of the rug to thoroughly cover.

3. Dry thoroughly before using.

Non-skid Rug Grip Mat

1. Lay the rolled non-skid rolled rug grip mat on a flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles. Lay the scatter rug on top of the mat.

2. Trace around the edge of the rug with a marker, marking the rug's shape onto the mat. Remove the rug.

3. Use scissors to cut out the shape of the rug on the mat. You may want to cut the mat just inside the line so the mat will be slightly smaller than the rug and won't be visible on the floor.

4. Place the mat on the floor where you will position the rug. Place the rug, face-up, on the mat, aligning the edges.

Non-skid Rug Backing Paint

1. Spread the scatter rug, face-down, on a flat surface in a well-ventilated area, preferably outside.

2. Apply non-skid rug backing paint to the back-side of the rug, according to the manufacturer's directions.

3. Dry thoroughly before positioning the rug on the floor.

References

• Wright State University: Tips to Prevent Falls in the Elderly
• Bella Online: Non-Slip Rug Options

Resources

• CDC: Home Safety Checklists