How to Flatten an Area Rug

Rugs that have a latex backing often tend to curl up at the edges once unrolled and placed on the floor. The latex backing provides a "memory" effect that causes the rug to curve toward the position in which it was originally stored. Not only is a rug with curled edges visually distracting, it also may pose a tripping hazard for those who approach it. Fortunately, you can flatten your area rug and solve the problem.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Unroll the rug onto a flat surface and inspect for curled edges.

   • 2

     Roll half of the length of the rug up in the opposite direction from which it was packed or stored. Start at one end or the other, not the side. If the rug is not square or rectangular-shaped, choose any side from which to begin rolling. Leave the rug in the half-rolled position for approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

   • 3

     Unroll and place the rug flat on the floor.