Accidental falls are the number one cause of death and injury in the home. To reduce the chance of falling, make sure all rugs on a hard surface are nonslip.

While you could use double stick carpet tape or a nonslip rug pad to keep them from sliding, a simpler solution is to apply a bead of 100% silicone caulking to the bottom of the rug.

Run the caulking around the edges of the bottom of the rug as well as every 3” or so in the center.

Next, use a putty knife to flatten out the bead of caulking. This will prevent the caulking from being too thick, and allow it to adhere well to the rug.

Let the caulking dry overnight until it has cured before putting the rug in place on the floor. The rubbery texture of the silicone caulking will keep the rug from sliding when you step on it.

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2 Comments on “DIY Nonslip Rugs”

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1. Jeanie Says:
   January 13th, 2012 at 7:15 pm

   I love this tip. I had thought about it but went looking for a second opinion. Usually ideas I get about home improvements can be dispelled pretty quickly with a quick Google search! My question is that if I intend to use this on area rugs in my kitchen, hallway, etc; what is the best way to clean the rugs? I usually machine wash – could I still do this in cold and then let them air dry?
   Thanks for the help,
   Jeanie

2. 

   Joe T. Says:
   January 14th, 2012 at 12:00 pm

   Hi Jeanie, Glad you liked the nonslip rug tip. This idea works on small area rugs and doormats, but is not intended for use on large rugs or long runners. I don’t think the silicone would prevent you from washing the rug, but it might lose its grip and start to peel off. Sorry I couldn’t be of more help, but thanks for writing and good luck.–Joe T.

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