What is a plastic carpet protector?

A plastic carpet protector is a thin piece of plastic that sticks to the carpet to protect it from dirt and other items that might cause damage. Carpet-protector plastic usually comes on a roll and has an adhesive that sticks to the carpet but leaves no residue when removed.

The adhesive prevents the plastic from moving around as people walk on it. Plastic carpet protectors generally last 30 to 60 days, depending on the type. To prevent tearing, manufacturers create the plastic out of polyethylene, which can stretch. The plastic is also non-slippery, so people can walk on it with shoes without falling.