How to Stop Mats Moving: 8 Effective Solutions 2024

Are you tired of constantly readjusting your mats and rugs in your home or office? It is an inconvenience and a health and safety issue. A loose mat can cause someone to trip and fall, resulting in potential injuries and the potential for legal action. Fortunately, many solutions exist to solve this problem. Some are quick and easy. Others may require an investment but are highly effective. Stop Mats Moving today.

Trip hazards are one of the main risks associated with slip and fall accidents in the UK (HSE: Identify the Risks). In this guide, we will explore the best ways to stop mats moving and recommend the best solutions for your needs.

1. Double-sided Tape

Double-sided tape is a cheap and simple solution for stopping mats from moving. However, it is generally not a long-term fix you can continue to rely on. When you lift the mat, for cleaning beneath the mat, for example, the tape will lose its tackiness and will be less effective. You will need to go to the effort of removing the tape and using new tape each time. The tape is also likely to leave residue on floors which can be difficult to remove and attracts dirt itself. Additionally, it may not be strong enough to hold heavier mats in place. It’s best to use double-sided tape on smaller mats or rugs that don’t get a lot of foot traffic.

2. Teebaud Premium Anti-Slip Mat and Rug Underlay

Teebaud Premium Anti-Slip Mat and Rug Underlay is a great solution for stopping mats from moving. This underlay is made from a thin polymer-coated polyester textile that grips the mat and the floor, preventing slipping and sliding. It is also easy to trim to the size of your mat and can be used on all types of flooring, including hard floors and carpets. Teebaud Underlay can be lifted for cleaning underneath the mat and maintains its effectiveness at holding the mat in place over the long term.

3. Rubber-Backed Mats

Rubber-backed mats tend to be more resistant to movement than other types of mats. The rubber material grips the floor and prevents the mat from sliding around. Rubber mats are also durable and easy to clean. If you’re looking for a simple solution to stop mats moving, a rubber-backed mat is a good option to consider.

If you don’t own a mat with a rubber backing, it will usually be made with a PVC / Vinyl backing or possibly without backing at all. Vinyl-backed mats are much more liable to move and you will need another solution to stop them from moving.

4. Choose Mats with a Claw Backing for carpets:

Mats made for carpets sometimes feature a “claw” backing, also known in the industry as cleated or gripper backing. The claws are designed to grip the carpet and keep the mat in place. The claws penetrate the carpet fibres, providing grip and helping to prevent the mat from slipping. Shades Custom Heavy Duty Mats, available at Trusted Mats, have a claw backing and are highly effective at resisting movement on carpets.

5. Choose Mats with a Flat Backing for hard floors:

The best mats at resisting movement on hard floors actually have a flat backing. A flat backing has more surface area contact with the floor which makes it less likely to move. A flat rubber-backed mat is ideal for placing on hard floors including tiles, wood, laminate and vinyl. 

6. Larger mats

Having a larger mat can also be a great solution for stop mats moving. The weight of the mat helps keep it in place, and it’s less likely to move around when stepped on. Large mats are especially useful in high-traffic areas or where multiple people may be stepping on the mat simultaneously. 

Larger mats are typically more effective at removing dirt and water because it is possible for more steps to be taken on the mat itself.

7. Fitted Mats:

Fitted mats are cut to size and are made to fit the required area. They are a great solution for those who want a mat that fits perfectly in a specific area. These mats fit the area securely, holding the mat in place, making them perfect for high-traffic areas such as entrances, corridors and hallways. Made-to-measure mats are a bit more expensive than regular mats and may require a bit of work trimming for an exact fit. The investment will be well worth it if you want a mat that fits perfectly and doesn’t move around.

8. Well Mats:

Well mats are the most expensive option on this list. They require a mat well to be built, which is very expensive if you don’t already have one. However, they are very effective at stopping mats from moving as long as they fit properly. Well mats are also very durable and are designed to last for years. If you have the budget and want the best possible solution to stop mats moving, then a mat well with a properly fitted well mat is definitely worth considering.

How to Stop Mats Moving: Step-by-Step Guide 

1. Ensure the back of the mat and floor area is clean from dirt and moisture, before placing your mat on the floor. 
2. Identify the type of flooring you have and the mat backing material. This will help you determine the best solution for stopping your mats from moving.
3. Consider the amount of foot traffic your mat will experience. If you have high foot traffic, you’ll need a more robust solution that can withstand heavy use.
4. Decide on your budget. Different solutions cost more or less, so it’s important to consider how much you’re willing to spend.
5. Consider using a rubber-backed mat or a mat with a claw backing for carpets. Use a smooth rubber-backed mat for hard floors. These solutions are effective and relatively inexpensive.
6. If you already have a mat without a rubber backing or a deep pile carpet, consider using Teebaud Premium Anti-Slip Mat and Rug Underlay to stop it from moving.
7. If you have a small mat, they are lighter and more likely to move. Consider changing to a larger mat to keep it in place.
8. If you have the budget, consider installing a mat well, which is a more expensive but very effective solution.

By following these steps, you should be able to choose the best solution to stop mats moving based on your specific needs and budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several effective solutions for stopping mats from moving. Using a rubber-backed mat, a mat with a claw backing, Teebaud Premium Anti-Slip Mat and Rug Underlay, or a fitted mat are all great options. Well-mats are highly effective but are more expensive. Double-sided tape is a cheap option, but is only a short-term solution, and can leave residue on floors. Of course, the best solution depends on your individual circumstances and budget.

We highly recommend Teebaud Premium Anti-Slip Mat and Rug Underlay as an effective solution for all sizes of mats on hard floors and carpets. Choose a mat with suitable backing for your floor type, such as the backing options offered with Shades Custom Heavy Duty Mats, designed to provide maximum grip. These products are available at Trusted Mats, and we encourage you to check them out.

Need more help?

If you have any questions or would like more information, Trusted Mats has an experienced team ready to help you find the solution you need. Simply contact us through the website.