The Best Rug Gripper

Buying Guide

Area rugs are a great way to break up the monotony of hardwood or tile flooring. But there’s one undeniable problem with area rugs. With nothing providing friction, they slide around and, over time, the edges may even curl up. This can create a hazard in your home since just stepping on it can send it scooting around.

That’s where a rug gripper can come in. There are several types, but the end result is that they create friction between your rug and the floor to keep it from sliding around. No matter how someone steps on it, it should stay in place.

There are two major types of rug grippers. One type is a mat that runs the full length of your rug. Think of it as an additional layer beneath your rug. These require no adhesive to attach to your rug. You simply set it down and put your rug on top of it.

Another type of rug gripper comes in strips. These vary from one product to another, but you’ll either place them on the four corners or along the entire edge of your rug to give it the extra grip you need. These grippers typically attach with an adhesive designed to easily be removed from the rug once you’re finished using them.

• Most rug grippers are built for hardwood, tile or linoleum floors. Check the floor types carefully before buying. There are rug grippers made for rugs placed on carpets, but you’ll have to shop specifically for those.
• A top consideration of any rug gripper is how safe it will keep the floor below it. Although most of these products are designed not to damage the floors, it’s worth doublechecking to make sure it won’t scratch your tile or wood. The good news is, some grippers are actually mats that provide an additional layer of protection for your floors.
• Another benefit of a rug gripper mat versus strips is that it provides cushioning, keeping your legs and joints comfortable as you walk across it.
• The problem with mat-style grippers is that they don’t secure the corners, which means you could find they start to roll up after a while, causing a tripping hazard.
• With full-rug mats, you’ll find some are thicker than others, with the thicker ones providing a better cushion and more protection for your floors. But the thinner versions also have benefits, maintaining a lower profile.
• If you’re looking for a gripper for an outdoor mat, look for one that has weatherproofing built in. You may also note in the fine print that some outdoor rug grippers work only to keep the corners from curling up.