Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber that is used for indoor spaces. Unlike natural fibers, polypropylene does not accumulate dirt. Also, it has anti-static properties, which do not let dust stick to it, unlike wool rugs.
To understand more about different rug materials and their properties, see Understanding Rug Materials.
Vinyl floors are durable and strong enough to resist scuffing and staining. Moreover, they are available in various designs and colors and are cheaper than hardwood floors.
For more on maintaining vinyl floors, check out How to Keep Floor Mats from Sliding on Vinyl Floor.
Many homeowners who have installed vinyl floors worry about installing polypropylene rugs. Polypropylene rugs are considered unsafe for vinyl plank flooring because these rugs have chemicals on the rug backing that can react with the vinyl plank flooring and cause discoloration.
Learn more about safe rugs for vinyl flooring at Which Rugs Are Safe For Vinyl Plank Flooring?
Are Polypropylene Rugs Safe For My Vinyl Flooring?
The short answer is No, polypropylene rugs are not safe for vinyl floors.
The long answer is: Polypropylene rugs are made of propylene monomers which are resistant to stains, UV rays, and water while also being incredibly flexible, soft, and durable. it is a finer material for carpets than wool and other heavy textile rugs. They offer an additional layer of padding for a more comfortable and secure experience.
For comparison with other rug types, see 7 Wood Floor Patterns That Never Get Old.
The chemicals on the rubber-backed polypropylene rugs may start a chemical reaction with chemicals used in the finish within three to four weeks after putting them on the vinyl floors.
To prevent such issues, consider How to Repair Laminate Floor.
Polypropylene-backed rugs can fade the finish of vinyl floors over time since they absorb UV rays. Even if you put latex rug pads under the polypropylene rugs, it will leave an annoying waffle pattern on your newly refinished vinyl plank flooring.
Even though polypropylene rugs can stain and damage your vinyl floors, they have some benefits to them as well:
For further details on flooring care, visit How to Clean and Maintain Laminate Floors: Best Practices and Products.
Benefits:
- Stain-Resistant: it may sound paradoxical that something that can leave stains on your vinyl plank floors can also protect your floor from stains. As these rugs are water-resistant, they can prevent food and drink spills from staining your floor underneath.
- Cheap: Polypropylene rugs have low manufacturing costs, which are highly affordable.
- Low Maintenance: These rugs are low maintenance and easy to clean as it does not get damaged by chemicals used in cleaning products.
- Good for Outdoors: Since polypropylene rugs are moisture resistant, you can put them outdoors. You can put it beside the pool to dry your feet.
- Long-Lasting: They are durable and can last up to 5 to six years.
- Low Density: Polypropylene rugs are lightweight and have low density, due to which they can float on water.
For more on stain removal, see How to Remove Scratches from Wood Floors.
Disadvantages:
- Does Not Resist Sunlight: When polypropylene rugs are vulnerable to UV rays. Their quality takes a toll when they are exposed to sunlight for too long unless they are chemically modified.
- Inflexible: Polypropylene is a non-resilient fiber. It cannot restore its original position if it is crushed. Therefore, it should not be placed in high-traffic areas.
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- Sensitive to Friction and Heat: Though polypropylene rugs have a melting point of over 300℉, exposure to heat and friction can leave marks, especially if you drag heavy furniture over it.
- Oil-based Stains: Removing oil-based stains can be difficult even though these rugs are stain-resistant. Polypropylene rugs soak up oil-based stains, which become permanent. They are difficult to remove, even with a vacuum. Cleaning with shampoo will not be effective because of the water-resisting qualities of these rugs.
Which Rugs Are Safe For Vinyl Plank Flooring?
The rugs made of natural fibers such as jute or cotton are safe for vinyl plank flooring. Here are some details about the rugs that are best for vinyl floors:
Cotton-Backed Rugs
These rugs are safe for vinyl floors. They do not leave marks on the vinyl plank flooring due to wear and tear after continuous usage. Cotton has no chemical reaction with vinyl flooring, so it will not stain or discolor the finish of your vinyl floor.
Hand Woven Rugs
Hand-woven rugs do not have any rug backing that can stain your vinyl flooring as long as it is free of additives and colorants. Also, cleaning this type of rug is easy and simple, which is a huge plus.
Colorfast Rugs
Colorfast rugs are heat-, water- and UV-resistant. You can cover your hardwood or vinyl flooring with these rugs for extra padding. They will also protect your vinyl plank flooring from heat, water, and sunshine.
Why is Rug Pad Necessary?
If you don’t install a rug pad under the polypropylene rug, it will scratch your vinyl plank flooring and leave color patches behind. There are several benefits of placing a rug pad under a polypropylene carpet.
Benefits of a Rug Pad:
- Protect the Rug: Rug pads protect the rug from tear and wear due to any dust particles from the floor that can get into the rug. A rug pad provides padding under the rug, which protects the rug.
- Prevent Slips: A rug pad prevents the rug from slipping, preventing accidents. Rugs are susceptible to slipping without rug pads, a safety risk.
- Extra Padding: Rug pads offer extra cushioning, making walking on them comfortably.
- Protect the Vinyl Floors: Rug pads are water resistant, meaning any spill on the rug will keep it from staining the vinyl plank flooring underneath. The pad will work as a barrier between the vinyl flooring and the rug that will help your vinyl floors finish last longer.
Types of Rug Pads
Rug pads are available in two main types:
Eco Plush
The Eco plush rug pad is a non-slip pad that works well with polypropylene. Also, it is a 100% heat-felt pad.
Anchor Grip
This pad is widely recommended for use with vinyl floors.
How to Clean Polypropylene Rugs?
If you want to place a polypropylene rug on vinyl flooring, you must invest in rug pads. If you place rug pads beneath polypropylene rugs, it will protect your vinyl floor from staining.
Though the rugs can be replaced, they still require maintenance to stay in good shape. You can wash them once a year. Washing a polypropylene carpet will remove any extra color that may leak so it will not stain your vinyl plank flooring.
For a comprehensive guide on rug care, refer to How to Repair Scratches on Hardwood Floor.
Here is how you can clean a polypropylene carpet:
- Take the rug outside
- Pour a bucket of water on it or wet it down with a garden hose
- Put a mild dish soap on it
- Scrub the rug
- Rinse it with water
- Let it dry
Things to Avoid While Cleaning a Polypropylene Rug
- Since it is a synthetic fiber, avoid putting it into a dryer after washing. The heat in the dryer can damage or even melt the fibers and leave more marks.
- Place the rug on a clothesline where it can air dry.
- Do not place it under the direct sun since it can damage the fibers.
- Dry both sides of the rug before putting it back in your house.
