How to Make Wood Stairs Non-Slip

How to Make Wood Stairs Non Slip

Wood stairs give a classic look to homes, and they are easy to keep clean. While most homes have wooden stairs, there are still risks of falling and slipping because of slippery wood stairs. People find it hard to choose solutions on how to make wood stairs non slip. Thus, experiencing falling flat maybe when we get up in the middle of the night to check our doors or check on the pets. 

More than 30,000 deaths a year are about accidental falls, and most of them are because of slippery stairs. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make wood stairs non slip. The best way to make wood stairs non-slip is carpeting, anti-slip adhesive stair treads, or applying a coat of anti-slip floor finish to the surface of each level of the stairs. 

Although carpeting can take some time to install and get a little expensive, anti-slip stair treads and anti-slip coat solutions are inexpensive and easy to apply. To find out more about making wood stairs non-slip, here is an article for you to learn how to make wood stairs non slip. 

Solutions in Making Wood Stairs Non-Slip

There are several solutions to making wood stairs non slip while still achieving a presentable appearance for the staircase.

1. Non-Slip Carpet Stair Treads 

The fibers in the carpet naturally give some friction, helping you grip your feet as you walk. Like adhesive strips, carpet stair treads are small rectangle pieces of carpets that fit into a standard tread size. These effectively prevent slips by adding the texture of roughness to the surface of the stairs. One of its features is they come with a backing that is neither adhesive nor glue, leaving no damage to your wood stair treads. 

These non-slip carpet stair treads come in different designs and sizes to fit different types of stairs. It allows you to avoid installing a carpet stair runner that gets in the way of the length of your steps. Also, it is easy to install and comfortable on bare feet. It is noted that some carpet stair treads can be expensive, and the backing can wear away after a while. 

2. Transparent Anti-Slip Strips

There are several types of adhesive strips that can be applied to staircases to make them less slippery. It comes with a roller for easier installation and to remove any air from the strip. These anti-slip strips work in both indoor and outdoor stairs and other surfaces, not just wood. 

These transparent anti-slip strips are environmentally safe and are comfortable for barefoot use. Its tactile yet soft surface prevents slip but does not give off the feeling of sandpaper. Although these trips may not come off quickly and can still collect dirt, it is easy to clean and has a non-harsh surface. 

3. Anti-slip tape

This anti-slip tape can be found on the treads in stairwells. It sticks well and provides an effective non-slip surface for staircases of all kinds. With its weatherproof feature, the anti-slip tape can be put on indoor and outdoor wood stairs without it peeling off. Although this tape can be rough and may be uncomfortable for bare feet, it is still a great option to guarantee non-slip stairs.

This solution for making your wood stairs non slip is cheap, effective, and weatherproof. ]

4. Anti-slip Floor Finish

A more exceptional solution is anti-slip wood finishes. It keeps the natural appearance of your stair treads because it goes on transparently. There are several types of finishes, like matte or gloss, depending on your choice. Also, it lasts longer than other non-slip solutions. 

These anti-slip paint for stairs are applied with a brush. It is to mix sand into the paint before applying it over the steps to make a rough surface. If your stairs are bare or already painted, a coating can be added in various colors and be reapplied if it wears out.

The only downside is its removal. Removing the anti-slip floor finish can be difficult and can damage the stairs. It is time-consuming to apply and to remove. 

Fortunately, there are water-based finishes. But remember that can be removed using any scrub or cleaning agent that can still damage your stair treads. It is better to finish on some spare piece before applying it to the stairs to see what it looks like. 

5. Stair Runners

Stair runners are the length of the carpet that runs through the entire length of the stairs. It goes from top to bottom, and you might see them mostly in fancy hotels and homes with a bright red color.

For standard homes, stair runners may resemble existing carpers in the other parts of the house. It will only be cut and finished to fit the size of the stairs. Unfortunately, stair runners are expensive because they must be equipped to the exact stair requirements and more complicated to install. 

A stair runner does not take up the entire width of a stair. Owners will still be able to see the hardwood on either side of the carpet. On the other hand, the runner will cover most of your stairs, so your steps’ nice wood finish will be mostly obscured.

6. Anti-Slip Spray

Getting an anti-slip spray is a lot more affordable than most anti-slip products or carpets. It is the most straightforward anti-slip product to apply and is transparent. There are different variants of the spray that also make changes to the wood, so be careful in choosing what spray to buy. 

This anti-slip spray requires several coats and can affect the stairs’ appearance, even when most products claim it to be transparent. It also does not guarantee a uniform finish, but it is effortless to apply. Fortunately, it is cheap and has a quick anti-slip solution. 

7. Make sure the stairs are up to code.

Accidents frequently happen because of old stairs and when they no longer meet the current building codes. Stairs are required to have exact measurements to be considered safe. If your stairs do not have enough depth or the correct distance between each stair, you’re putting the people in your home at risk. 

Stated below are the exact measurements for stairs to be considered safe:

Width: The distance between the left and right walls should be at least 36 inches wide.

Height: The rise is the overall height of the stairs. Although staircases vary in shape and size, the height is essential to determine where landings should be placed. Landings must be 12 feet (365.8cm) in height, as stated in the fire safety code. 

Run: The run refers to the length of the stairs, regardless of its height. Each step of the stair has its unit rise and unit run. These will vary depending on the staircase in your home. 

Headroom: The minimum headroom of the entire staircase should not be below 6 feet and 8 inches. 

Adding a handrail is also an excellent way to improve the safety of the stairs. Having safe stairs with the right requirements provide a permanent solution and will improve the stairway appearance. 


Are wood stairs slippery?

Whether the staircases are carpeted or wooden, all staircases can be slippery. Certain factors can make wood more slippery, such as waxes or varnishes. Also, take into consideration if the stairs are brand new and shiny-smooth.

What is the right cleaning method for wooden stairs?

When cleaning wooden staircases, using varnishes, polishes, and waxes can build up over time. These build up waxes increases the chances of slippery wood stairs. Try using a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris, and use a lightly damp mop to polish the stairs’ surface.

How do I remove some of the varnishes in the wood stairs?

You can gently remove the varnish from the wood by gently sanding the varnish away by hand with sandpaper. It will make your wood stairs less slippery. However, try rubbing the surface on the corner of the step to check what the finished result will look like.

Will carpeted stairs make the home safer and quieter?

Having carpeted stairs are generally safer and quieter than wood stairs. It also reduces the chance of slipping and falling. Carpets also absorb sound to soften footsteps, making them quieter than wood stairs. Carpeted stairs are the quietest because of the padding underneath the carpet.

However, installing a carpet runner with stair rods on wood stairs will also do the job. Besides, stairways that are well-lighted helps in avoiding accidents. For wood stairs, adding stair treads for traction helps in making them less slippery to non-slip. Also, keep the stairs free of toys and other obstacles, whether wood stairs or carpeted stairs. 


In choosing a solution to make wood stairs non slip, whatever solution you opt for, make sure to follow the products’ directions. Not following the proper instructions can damage and may ruin the appearance of the stairs. Also, choose the solution, depending on the stairs’ use, and consider if there are kids inside the house.