Adding a rug on top of a carpet can elevate a room’s décor, create focal points, add warmth, and even break up the monotony of wall-to-wall carpet. However, one common challenge when layering a rug over a carpet is dealing with wrinkles and creases that inevitably appear. If you’ve struggled with a rug bunching up, curling at the edges, or constantly shifting underfoot, you’re not alone. Here are practical tips to help you keep your rug smooth, flat, and stylish over carpet, whether in the living room, bedroom, or office.

Start with the Right Rug Material and Size

When choosing a rug to lay on a carpet, its material and size matter more than you might think. Natural fibre rugs like wool tend to stay in place better than synthetic ones, while thicker rugs are generally more stable on carpets than thinner ones. Shaggy or plush pile rugs, for instance, may provide a satisfying luxurious feel but can be more prone to shifting and bunching if its lower quality. Instead, consider flatweave or low-pile rugs, which sit more securely atop carpeted floors.

The rug’s size can also impact its ability to lie flat. Smaller rugs, especially in high-traffic areas, tend to shift and wrinkle more easily than larger ones. Opting for a larger rug with ample weight can reduce the chance of movement, especially if it covers a significant portion of the carpeted area.

Use a High-Quality Anti-slip Underlay

An anti-slip underlay is essential for layering a rug on a carpet, as it helps reduce movement, provides added comfort underfoot, and prevents wrinkles. The right anti-slip for a carpeted surface should have a felted or rubberised texture that grips both the rug and the carpet below. Not only will a quality anti-slip keep the rug in place, but it will also help distribute weight evenly, reducing creases and wrinkles.

For the best results, trim the anti-slip to be slightly smaller than your rug. This way, the edges of the rug sit flush with the floor, reducing the chances of them curling or lifting. Anti-slips can also add a layer of cushioning, making the space feel more comfortable without compromising stability.

Anchor the Rug with Furniture

Strategic furniture placement can be an effective way to prevent a rug from wrinkling or shifting. Anchoring your rug with furniture, like a sofa, coffee table, or bed, can add weight and stability, keeping it in place on top of the carpet. If you’re arranging a rug in a sitting area, try placing the front legs of sofas and chairs on the rug. This setup not only keeps the rug flat but also creates a cohesive and polished look in the space.

In a bedroom, placing a rug partially under the bed provides a similar benefit. The bed’s weight will keep the rug steady, and the addition of an anti-slip can ensure a smooth, wrinkle-free surface.

Try Double-Sided Rug Tape

For smaller rugs or areas where you don’t want furniture placement to dictate design, double-sided rug tape can work wonders. This tape is specially made to hold a rug to a carpeted floor and prevents wrinkling, bunching, and shifting. To use, apply strips of rug tape along the edges and across the centre of the rug. Be mindful of the tape’s strength—some tapes may leave a sticky residue on certain types of carpet, so be sure to test it in an inconspicuous area first.

An added benefit of rug tape is that it can help to eliminate the hazard of tripping, particularly around the edges, which often curl up with repeated foot traffic.

Roll Out and Reverse the Rug

Sometimes, wrinkles in a rug appear right from the start because of the way it was rolled or stored. If you notice creases right after laying the rug, try unrolling it in the opposite direction. Rolling the rug in reverse for a few hours can help smooth out any wrinkles created during transport or storage. After reversing it, roll it out again flat on the carpet. Press down firmly along the edges to settle it into position.

For more persistent creases, you should reverse roll the rug, place it in a warm area, such as near a radiator, and place something weighty on top of it. Leave the rug overnight and the creases should have smoothed out.

Regularly Smooth and Vacuum the Rug

Routine maintenance can go a long way in keeping your rug wrinkle-free. Vacuuming your rug not only keeps it clean but also helps press it down against the carpet below, preventing bunching over time. When vacuuming, run the vacuum in the direction of the pile to keep the fibres aligned and reduce the appearance of any existing creases.

Additionally, take a moment each week to inspect the rug for any spots that might be starting to wrinkle, and smooth them out with your hands. A little attention here and there can prevent larger wrinkles from forming, especially in high-traffic areas.

Avoid Overly Fluffy or High-Pile Carpets

Certain types of carpet are more prone to wrinkling a rug than others. For instance, a soft, fluffy carpet can make it difficult for a rug to lie flat, as the rug may sink into the carpet and bunch up. If you have a high-pile carpet but still want to lay rugs, consider using a thicker rug pad or opting for a heavy, tightly woven rug that won’t sink as easily into the plush carpet below.

Rotate the Rug Regularly

Finally, to prevent uneven wear and tear, rotate your rug every few months. Regular rotation ensures that foot traffic is evenly distributed across the rug’s surface, reducing the likelihood of indentations, wrinkles, or curling at the edges. This is especially important for rooms with heavy foot traffic, such as living rooms and hallways.

Final Thoughts

Adding a rug to a carpeted room can introduce layers of texture and colour, transforming a space from simple to sophisticated. But wrinkles can detract from the desired effect, giving the room an unkempt appearance. With a few proactive steps—such as selecting the right rug, using an anti-slip underlay, securing the rug with tape or furniture, and rotating it regularly—you can enjoy a perfectly smooth rug on a carpet, adding comfort and style to any room.

Preventing wrinkles may seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference in creating a polished and inviting space. With these tips in mind, you can achieve a flawless look that enhances your home’s décor and provides a more comfortable and secure surface for everyone.