The Ruggable Cushioned Pad and Classic Pad share the same purpose of holding your Rug Cover in place, but they differ significantly in thickness, comfort, and price. The Classic Pad is a low-profile, 1/8-inch base designed for functionality and clearance, while the Cushioned Pad is a thicker, almost 1/2-inch option that adds plushness and comfort underfoot for a higher price.
Here's everything you need to know about each Ruggable pad to choose the right one for your home.
Ruggable Classic Rug Pad
The Classic Rug Pad is the standard, original base for Ruggable's two-part rug system. It’s a low-profile, non-slip foundation engineered to grip the floor and keep the machine-washable Rug Cover securely attached. This is the go-to choice for function-first spaces where clearance under doors or furniture is a priority, or for those who prefer a firmer feel underfoot.
- What it is: A thin, non-slip rug pad that serves as the base layer for any Ruggable Rug Cover.
- Key features: Just over 1/8-inch thick, non-slip grip, easy to roll up and move, compatible with all Ruggable Rug Covers of the same size.
- Price: The standard, more affordable option included in the base price of any Ruggable rug system.
- Thickness: Approximately 1/8 inch (0.125 inches). Gives the rug a low profile.
- Materials: Latex-free, 100% recycled polyester with a thermoplastic rubber non-slip backing designed for indoor use. Safe for use on heated floors.
- Pros: Low profile allows for easy clearance under doorways and furniture. More budget-friendly than the cushioned version. Easy to roll and store. Provides a firm and stable surface ideal for high-traffic zones like hallways or entryways.
- Cons: Offers very little cushioning or softness. Feels firm and functional, not plush. Does not add any sense of luxury or comfort to the rug.
The Classic Pad is ideal for high-traffic areas, spaces that require door clearance, or anyone who values function over a plush feel and wants the most budget-friendly Ruggable setup.
Shop this product: ruggable.com/pages/rug-pads
Ruggable Cushioned Rug Pad
The Cushioned Rug Pad is Ruggable’s premium upgrade, designed to add significant comfort and a plush feel. With nearly half an inch of thickness, it transforms the feel of the rug system from a practical floor covering to a soft, comfortable surface. It’s perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and any area where you want a cozier, more luxurious experience underfoot.
- What it is: A thick, cushioned rug pad that adds softness and loft to a Ruggable Rug Cover.
- Key features: Almost 1/2-inch thick, adds a springy and plush step, non-slip, face has the same hook-and-loop texture as the Classic Pad to grip the Rug Cover.
- Price: A premium upgrade, typically adds $40-$100+ to the cost of a Ruggable rug system, depending on the size.
- Thickness: Approximately 2/5 inch (0.4 inches). Adds noticeable height and loft to the rug.
- Materials: Made from polyurethane foam, an elastic polymer designed for resilience and cushioning underfoot. Also safe for use on heated floors.
- Pros: Extra thickness provides a very comfortable, plush, and springy feel. Adds a luxurious dimension to the rug, making it pleasant for sitting or standing. Great for sound dampening in apartments or upstairs rooms.
- Cons: Thicker profile may prevent doors from opening over it. Can be too high for robotic vacuums to easily climb onto. Adds a noticeable cost to the total rug system.
Choose the Cushioned Pad for primary living spaces like family rooms and bedrooms, where comfort is a priority and you have enough clearance for the added height.
Shop this product: ruggable.com/pages/rug-pads
Ruggable Classic Pad vs. Cushioned Pad Comparison
Thickness & Profile
The most significant difference between the two pads is thickness. The Classic Pad is just 1/8-inch, creating a very low profile that sits nearly flat on the floor. This is a critical advantage in entryways, mudrooms, and hallways where doors need to swing open freely over the rug. The minimal height also means robotic vacuums can transition onto it without trouble.
In contrast, the Cushioned Pad is nearly half an inch thick (0.4 inches). This added loft is visually and physically noticeable, giving the rug a more substantial presence. While this delivers superior comfort, it can easily obstruct a low-swinging door. You should measure your door clearance - the space between the bottom of the door and your floor - before choosing this option. An ideal clearance is at least half an inch.
Comfort & Feel
The Classic Pad provides function, not comfort. Walking on it feels firm and grounded, delivering reliable non-slip performance without adding any bounce or softness. It feels like a standard, low-pile rug directly on a hard floor. This can be desirable in a kitchen where you need a stable surface while cooking or in a home office under a rolling chair.
The Cushioned Pad is all about comfort. The polyurethane foam adds a springy, resilient feel underfoot that's noticeably softer and more forgiving. It makes the rug a more inviting surface for kids to play on, for relaxing in the living room, or for stepping onto first thing in the morning in a bedroom. The difference is immediately apparent and is the primary reason to upgrade.
Price & Value
The Classic Pad is the base model and comes at no extra charge - it is included in the initial price of the rug system you see on the Ruggable website. This makes it the most economical choice. If your top concern is getting a washable rug on a tight budget, the Classic Pad provides all the core functionality you need.
Upgrading to the Cushioned Pad involves a premium price, ranging from an extra $40 for a small rug to over $100 for larger sizes. The value here is purely in the comfort and experience. If you spend significant time in the room or stand for long periods, the added softness can make a big difference in daily comfort and is often considered well worth the additional cost.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both pads are effective at their job, but they are built for entirely different priorities.
Choose the Classic Rug Pad if:
- You have low clearance under a door or furniture.
- You're placing the rug in a high-traffic area like a hallway, entryway, or mudroom.
- You want the most budget-friendly Ruggable option.
- You often use a robotic vacuum and want to ensure it has no issues mounting the rug.
- You prefer a firm, stable surface underfoot (e.g., in a kitchen or under a home office chair).
Choose the Cushioned Rug Pad if:
- Underfoot comfort is your top priority.
- The rug will be in a living room, bedroom, or family room where you often relax or stand.
- You have confirmed there is at least half an inch of clearance under any nearby doors.
- You're willing to invest more for a more luxurious, plush feel.
- You want better sound dampening, especially for homes with multiple floors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the Ruggable Classic and Cushioned Pad?
The main difference is thickness, which affects comfort and price. The Classic Pad is 1/8-inch thick, firm, and budget-friendly. The Cushioned Pad is about 2/5-inch thick, offering a plush, comfortable feel for an additional cost.
Will my robot vacuum work with the Cushioned Pad?
It depends on the vacuum model. Most modern, high-powered robot vacuums can climb the edge of a Cushioned Pad, but some older or less powerful models may struggle with the transition. If this is a concern, the Classic Pad is the safer choice.
Will the Cushioned Pad fit under my door?
Many standard doors will not have enough clearance. Before ordering the Cushioned Pad, measure the space between the bottom of your door and the floor. You will need about half an inch of clearance for the door to swing freely over the pad.
Do I have to use a Ruggable Pad with my Ruggable Rug?
Yes. The Ruggable system is designed as two specialized pieces: an interchangeable Rug Cover and a non-slip Rug Pad. The top of the pad has a velcro-like grip that is specifically engineered to hold the Ruggable Cover securely in place. A third-party pad will not work.
Is the Cushioned Pad worth the extra money?
This is subjective, but many owners say yes, especially for relaxation spaces like living rooms and bedrooms. If you prioritize underfoot comfort and a plush feel, the added cost is generally seen as a worthwhile investment for what feels like a more premium product.
How thick is each Ruggable pad exactly?
The Classic Pad is approximately 1/8-inch (0.125 inches) thick. The Cushioned Pad is approximately 2/5-inch (0.4 inches) thick - more than three times as thick as the Classic.
Which Ruggable pad is better for pets and kids?
Both are great options. The Classic Pad might be better suited for playrooms where toys like building blocks are used, as it provides a firmer surface. The Cushioned Pad offers a softer landing spot, which is great for lounging and gentler play in a family room or bedroom.
Can you clean the Ruggable pads?
Ruggable recommends spot-cleaning the pads themselves with soap and water as needed. Only the Rug Cover on top is designed to be machine-washed.
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