How important is it, really, to have a rug pad for an area rug?

Bite the bullet and buy the bloody things. They keep rugs from slipping and wearing out and give a little cushioning. Get gorgeous little Orientals that you can take with you on next move; the pads get rolled up.

Congratulations on the move.

I have hardwood floors. I recommend you buy the pads for all the reasons gail mentions…..I have an 8×11 foot rug in the LR and it would “creep” before I got a pad underneath it (and this was even though it had furniture on it….).....

One caveat…..you can get equal quality pads at discount type stores. I got mine at Home Goods…... I think the one for the LR rug was in the $40 range…..

I am with Gail and Snoopy, buy the mats, you will be glad you did.

Certain types of rug “backing” can also scratch those beautiful hardwood floors. Get the rug pad!

I’m just popping in to say that I ‘fifth’ everything people here say. I had a friend in high school that worked in a rug/carpet store part time. The biggest mistake people make is spending big money on a rug and/or carpet and skimping on the pad. It is better to get the best quality pad you can, even if it means skimping on the rug/carpet.

My friend didn’t buy a rug pad for his brand new area rug and his house burned down. Coincidence? I think not.

@jballou. well, if that doesn’t convince him….I don’t know what will.

we just bought some at target. I highly recommend it. I actually like my rugs now…