Choosing the right size rug pad for your 9×12 rug can make a significant difference in the longevity and performance of your rug.
A properly sized rug pad can help prevent slipping, cushion your feet, and protect your floors.
We’ll discuss the appropriate size of rug pad for your 9×12 rug, and why it’s important to use one.
What Size Rug Pad For 9×12 Rugs?
You’ll need an 8’10″ x 11’10″ rug pad for your 9×12 rug to remain hidden, protect the floor, and prevent an accident.
Typically a rug pad should be 2 inches smaller than the area rug from either side.

Choosing The Right Size Rug Pad
Choosing the right size rug pad for your 9×12 rug is important to ensure that it provides proper support, protection, and cushioning.
Here are some issues to consider when choosing a rug pad:
Rug pad size:
A rug pad that is slightly smaller than your rug is recommended, such as an 8’10” x 11’10” rug pad, to ensure that it fits comfortably underneath your 9×12 rug.
The following are some common sizes of rugs along with their recommended rug pad size:
Rug size | Rug pad size |
---|---|
5’×7’ | 4’10″x6’10” |
5’×8’ | 4’10″x7’10” |
8’×10’ | 7’10″x9’10” |
8’×11’ | 7’10″x10’10” |
9’×12’ | 8’10″x11’10” |
Rug pad thickness:
The thickness of your rug pad will depend on your flooring type and the type of rug you have.
Thicker rug pads provide more cushioning and are recommended for plush rugs and carpets, while thinner rug pads are recommended for hard flooring surfaces.
>> What thickness of rug pad do i need
Rug pad material:
Rug pads are available in a variety of materials, including felt, rubber, and foam.
Felt rug pads are recommended for larger rugs like a 9×12 rug, as they provide extra cushioning and prevent slipping.
Rubber rug pads are recommended for hard flooring surfaces, as they provide non-slip protection.
Foam rug pads are recommended for thinner rugs, as they add cushioning without adding too much height.
Rug pad quality:
The quality of your rug pad is important for ensuring that it lasts and provides adequate support for your rug.
Look for rug pads made from high-quality materials and with a dense construction to ensure that they are durable and long-lasting.
Rug pad care:
Consider the care and maintenance required for your rug pad.
Some rug pads can be easily cleaned with a vacuum or spot-cleaned with mild detergent and water, while others may require professional cleaning.
How To Size Rug Pads?

To size a rug pad, follow these steps:
Measure The Rug Pad
Place the rug pad flat on the floor where you’ll use it. Then measure the area rug size using measuring tape over the rug pad, excluding tassels or fringe.
The reason is that you’ll only cover the original body of the rug.
The rug pad may read 9’ x 12’, but the original measurement can be smaller due to the making process or binding.
Some manufacturers also round off the rug to the closest standard size.
>> What size area rug for hardwood floors in bedroom?

Determine The Right Size
Once you have measured, deduct two inches from the width and length of the area rug measurement to get the actual rug pad size.
For example, if your oversize rug is 8’x 10’, after cutting the piece, you should get an 8’10″ x 9’10″ rug pad.
Cut Down The Rug Pad

Now cut the unsized rug pad with your sharp scissors or utility knife. Don’t worry about leaving the precise cutting edge.
The reason is that the rug pad will remain hidden under the area rug.
Care and Maintenance of a Rug Pad
Proper care and maintenance of your rug pad are important for ensuring its longevity and effectiveness.
Here are some tips for caring for and maintaining your rug pad:
Regular Cleaning:
Vacuum your rug pad regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This will prevent the accumulation of dirt and prolong the life of your rug pad.
If your rug pad is washable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.
Spot Cleaning:
If your rug pad gets stained, spot clean it with mild detergent and warm water.
Blot the stain with a clean cloth until it is removed, then rinse the area with clean water and let it dry.
Air Drying:
If your rug pad gets wet, allow it to air dry completely before placing it back under your rug.
Do not use a dryer or other heating device to dry your rug pad, as this can cause it to shrink or melt.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your rug pad, as they can damage the materials and reduce their effectiveness.
Stick to mild detergents and warm water for cleaning.
Store Properly:
If you need to store your rug pad, roll it up and store it in a dry, cool place.
Do not fold it or place heavy objects on top of it, as this can damage the materials and reduce its effectiveness.
>> What rug size for outdoor patio?
FAQs on what size rug pad is for a 9×12 rug
Do You Need A Rug Pad On Hardwood Floors?
You’ll need a special type of rug pad to place on the hardwood floor.
The reason is that a normal rug pad can slip off on the floor and cause injury.
Thus, the rag pad should have a non-slip coating to create a protective barrier between the hardwood floor and the area rug.
How Thick Should Your Rug Pad Be For A 9×12 Rug?
It depends on the area of the home where you’’ place the rug pad.
To place your bedroom under the bed or dressing table, choose a rug pad with a low to medium pile height of around 1/4″ to 1/2″.
But if you don’t need to place any furniture on the rug pad, you can consider a 3/4-inch rug pad.
A 1/4″ or less high rug is practical for placing in the kitchen.
Does A Rug Pad Make A Rug Softer?
When used on thin carpeting, rug pads make the rug feel softer under your feet.
The rug pad offers an extra cushion that your feet will enjoy.
Apart from that, the rug pad protects the floor from getting scratched or dented due to placing heavy furniture.
Final words
Once determined what size rug pad is for a 9×12 rug, you can confidently buy the right size.
So whether it is online or local, order a slightly bigger size and trim it down based on your requirement.
This way you’’ get the best-fitted rug pad to enjoy its protection, comfort, and safer experience.
Lastly make sure the rug pad you are choosing cushioning, is eco-friendly, and non-slip.