Discover the best carpet underlay for your home. Learn about types, benefits, thickness, installation tips, and how to choose the perfect underlay for every room. When buying a new carpet, most people look for the colour, warrantee and style of their carpet, however often overlook a crucial layer: Carpet Underlay. A good underlay doesn't just make your carpet feel softer but last longer, improve insulation and reduces noise throughout your home. If your shopping for the best carpet underlay this guide will help you to navigate the range of underlay available and the benefits of each within each room and choose the perfect underlay for your space.  

What Is Carpet Underlay and Why It Matters

Carpet underlay is the layer of cushioning placed between your subfloor and carpet, it acts as a barrier absorbing impact and protects your carpet from premature wear. High quality underlay offers several advantages:
  • Comfort: by adding softness.
  • Insulation: keeping your home warmer during UK Winters
  • Noise reduction: minimises sound transfer between floors
  • Durability: helps maintain their shape and feel for longer.
Underlay is an investment for not just the comfort of your carpet but also the longevity.  

Why choose a premium carpet underlay?

A premium carpet underlay can tranform the way your flooring feels and lasts.

  • Extra Comfort: A soft, cushioned layer enhances everyday comfort.

  • Better Insulation: Traps heat, lowering energy costs.

  • Reduced Noise: Perfect for multi-storey homes, flats or busy households.

  • Increased Carpet Lifespan: Prevents fibres from crushing and fraying.

  • Improved Appearance: Keeps carpets looking smooth and well-fitted.

 

Underlay type

Type Description Best For Pros
PU Foam Recycled foam, lightweight, comfortable Bedrooms, living rooms Soft, great insulation
Rubber (Crumb/Sponge) Made from recycled rubber High-traffic areas, stairs Durable, great support
Felt Traditional wool/fibre mix Period homes, luxury carpets Natural insulation
Combination Felt + rubber layer Versatile spaces Best of both worlds
Eco-Friendly Recycled fibres Eco homes

Each type offers unique benefits—your choice depends on where it’s being used and your personal preferences.

 

How to choose the best carpet underlay.

Room type Bedroom: Soft PU for warm and comfort. Hallway or stairs: Dense rubber or felt for durability Living room: Combination underlay for balanced performance. Subfloor type Concrete: A thicker underlay may be needed to ensure insulation with a cold subfloor material like concrete. Woodfloors: Rubber or felt for stability underfoot. Underfloor heating: Use low tog (below 1.0) underlays that are designed for heat flow. Thickness and Density: 8-11mm PU foam is ideal for most homes however the higher then density the better support and durability. Environmental: For Eco friendly buyers have underlay made from recycled materials which are becoming increasingly popular across the UK.  

Carpet underlay installation.

Quick installation checklist:

  • Always start with a clean, dry subfloor.

  • Lay underlay rubber-side (or printed side) down.

  • Tape seams together—never overlap.

  • Trim excess before fitting the carpet.

Common mistakes to avoid:

  • Reusing old underlay.

  • Using the wrong thickness on stairs.

  • Leaving gaps between pieces.

  You can install carpet underlay yourself, but professional fitting ensures a perfect finish.  

How Long Does Carpet Underlay Last?

A good carpet underlay should last between 8 and 15 years depending on usage and material  

Signs it’s time to replace underlay:

  • Carpet feels flat or uneven.

  • Persistent odours or moisture issues.

  • Carpet doesn’t “bounce back” after vacuuming.

Always replace your underlay when buying a new carpet—this will ensure maximum performance and comfort.

A great carpet deserves a great foundation—and the right underlay makes all the difference.
Whether you’re seeking warmth for winter, noise reduction, or durability for busy areas, there’s an option to suit every UK home and budget