We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Underlayment For Carpets 2025 in the UK

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MAIYADUO 150x200 cm Rug Anti Slip Non Slip Rug Mat Liner Carpet Gripper Underlay for Hard Floors Rug Gripper For Wooden Floors

The MAIYADUO Rug Anti Slip Non Slip Rug Mat Liner is a useful underlayment for carpets, especially designed for hard floors such as wood. One of its primary strengths is its high slip resistance due to its PVC material and open grid pattern, which increases friction and ensures that the rug stays in place to prevent falls. This makes it particularly suitable for households with children or elderly members. The mat is also durable and can be reused over a long period, maintaining its grip and structural integrity.

Its waterproof nature and hollow design add an extra layer of floor protection against water damage and provide thermal insulation, which can act as a fire prevention measure. Additionally, this underlay is easy to trim to fit different rug sizes and shapes, adding to its versatility. It is simple to clean, being non-toxic, odorless, and hand washable.

However, there are some drawbacks. The pad is quite thin, with a thickness of just 0.01 cm, which may not provide significant cushioning underfoot. It is not suitable for use on stairs or certain surfaces like carpet, vinyl, lacquered finishes, natural stone, and other porous materials. Furthermore, while it is easy to cut, users need to be cautious to ensure it lies flat and does not bunch up under the rug. With a fair customer rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from over 3,000 reviews, it appears to be a well-received product, albeit with some limitations to consider based on individual needs.

#2

Rugs & Stuff AKO Super Dual Fleece All-Surface Anti Slip Gripper Underlay - 160 x 225cm

The Rugs & Stuff AKO Super Dual Fleece All-Surface Anti Slip Gripper Underlay is a versatile option for those looking to enhance the performance of their rugs across various floor types, including carpets, vinyl, tiles, and stone. Made from polyester, it is designed to provide excellent grip and increased comfort with its extra cushioning. The material choice ensures durability and ease of maintenance, as it is machine washable at 40 degrees, which is a significant advantage for long-term usage.

Additionally, it is suitable for use with underfloor heating, making it a practical choice in modern homes with this feature. Its sound-absorbing properties contribute to a quieter environment, which is beneficial in high-traffic areas or multi-level homes. On the downside, the product does not feature a moisture barrier, which might be a concern in areas prone to spills or high humidity. The thickness, at 0.3 cm, may not offer the level of density some users might expect from a premium underlay, particularly in terms of additional softness.

The product dimensions of 160 x 225 cm provide adequate coverage for medium-sized rugs, and it can be easily cut to fit smaller sizes. The Rugs & Stuff AKO Super Dual Fleece Underlay is a solid choice for general use, especially for those needing a machine washable and sound-absorbing solution, though it may fall short in areas requiring a moisture barrier or extra thickness for softness.

#3

Grandismo® 10mm Thick - Carpet Underlay/Underlayment - PU Foam - Acoustic & Sound Reduction - Thermal Insulation - Flooring/Floors

Rating
9.2
Thickness
Soundproofing
Thickness
It offers a comfortable, cushioned feel that makes walking on the carpet feel like walking on a cloud.
Soundproofing
The underlay delivers excellent sound insulation, noticeably reducing noise in the room.

The Grandismo 10mm Thick PU Foam Carpet Underlay is designed to add comfort and help reduce noise under carpets. Its 10mm thickness offers a good balance of softness and support, making floors feel more cushioned without being overly soft. Made from polyurethane foam, it’s lightweight and provides decent thermal insulation, helping to keep rooms warmer. This underlay also features two strong non-woven backings, which improve durability and help it maintain its shape over time.

It is particularly effective at reducing impact noise, such as footsteps and other sounds, making it a great choice for creating a quieter home environment. With a beige color and rectangular shape, it fits standard carpet installations easily and comes in a 10m² roll, suitable for medium-sized rooms.

This underlay is a solid option for those looking for comfortable, noise-reducing padding under carpet, especially in dry indoor areas where moisture protection is less critical. While it provides good sound reduction, thicker or specialized acoustic underlays may be preferred for those prioritizing maximum soundproofing.

Rating
9.2
Thickness
Soundproofing
Thickness
It offers a comfortable, cushioned feel that makes walking on the carpet feel like walking on a cloud.
Soundproofing
The underlay delivers excellent sound insulation, noticeably reducing noise in the room.

Buying Guide for the Best Underlayment For Carpets

Choosing the right underlayment for carpets is crucial for ensuring comfort, durability, and the overall performance of your carpet. Underlayment, also known as carpet padding, serves as a cushion between the carpet and the floor, providing support and enhancing the feel of the carpet underfoot. It also plays a role in insulation, soundproofing, and prolonging the life of your carpet. When selecting an underlayment, consider factors such as the type of carpet, the room's purpose, and your personal preferences for comfort and durability.
ThicknessThickness refers to how thick the underlayment is, and it is important because it affects the comfort and insulation properties of the carpet. Thicker underlayments generally provide more cushioning and can help with soundproofing and insulation. Thickness can range from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch or more. For high-traffic areas, a thinner underlayment might be more durable, while thicker options are better for comfort in bedrooms or living rooms. Consider the room's use and your preference for comfort when choosing the thickness.
DensityDensity measures how compact the material of the underlayment is, and it is crucial for durability and support. Higher density underlayments provide better support and can withstand more foot traffic, making them ideal for busy areas like hallways and living rooms. Density is usually measured in pounds per cubic foot, with higher numbers indicating greater density. If you need a durable underlayment for a high-traffic area, opt for a higher density. For areas where comfort is more important than durability, a lower density might be sufficient.
MaterialThe material of the underlayment affects its performance, durability, and environmental impact. Common materials include foam, rubber, and felt. Foam is lightweight and provides good cushioning, rubber offers excellent durability and soundproofing, and felt is eco-friendly and provides a firm feel. Consider the specific needs of your room, such as soundproofing for a home office or durability for a hallway, when choosing the material. If environmental impact is a concern, look for recycled or natural materials.
Moisture BarrierA moisture barrier is a feature that prevents moisture from seeping through the underlayment and damaging the carpet or subfloor. This is important in areas prone to moisture, such as basements or bathrooms. Some underlayments come with built-in moisture barriers, while others require a separate layer. If you're installing carpet in a moisture-prone area, ensure your underlayment has a moisture barrier to protect your investment. In dry areas, this feature might be less critical.
SoundproofingSoundproofing refers to the ability of the underlayment to reduce noise transmission between floors. This is important in multi-story homes or apartments where noise can be a concern. Underlayments with good soundproofing properties can help create a quieter environment. Look for underlayments specifically designed for soundproofing if noise reduction is a priority. If soundproofing is not a concern, you might prioritize other features like comfort or durability.