Vacuum the area where the carpet runner will lay, whether the area is carpeted or hard flooring like wood, tile or vinyl.
Mop the area using the appropriate cleaner and allow to dry completely.
Choose a nonskid carpet pad made for your floor type by reading the manufacturer’s information on the packaging. Some nonskid pads work on all floor types.
Use scissors (and ruler, if needed) to cut your nonskid carpet pad to fit your carpet runner: 1 to 2 inches smaller than the runner on all four sides.
Lay the nonskid pad on the carpeted or hard floor where you wish to place the carpet runner.
Lay the carpet runner squarely on top of the pad.