Canvas or plastic drop cloths?

Canvas is best for floors because it absorbs drips and stays in place. Plastic is better for covering furniture and fixtures. Paper-backed plastic combines non-slip footing with moisture protection.

What size drop cloth do I need?

A 9x12 foot canvas drop cloth covers most room floors. Buy 4x12 runners for hallways. One 9x12 cloth can be repositioned around a room as you paint.

Drop ClothGenerating image…

Paint & Primers

Protection

$5-$30 per cloth

Drop Cloths (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 15, 2026|Sources & methodology

Drop cloths protect floors, furniture, and fixtures from paint drips, splatters, and spills during painting projects. Canvas drop cloths are the professional standard, offering durability, absorbency, and slip resistance. Plastic sheeting is lighter and disposable, while paper-backed plastic provides a non-slip surface with moisture protection.

Key Features

Protects floors and furniture
Canvas or plastic options
Reusable heavy-duty canvas
Absorbent to prevent pooling
Slip-resistant surface

Specifications

Materials: Canvas (8-12 oz)

plastic (0.5-4 mil)

paper-backed plastic | Sizes: 4x12

9x12

12x15 feet | Canvas Weight: 8 oz (standard)

12 oz (heavy-duty) | Plastic Thickness: 0.5 mil (thin) to 4 mil (heavy)

Applications

Floor protection during painting
Furniture covering
Stairway protection
Exterior ground cover
Dust protection during sanding

Installation Overview

Spread the drop cloth over the area to be protected, tucking edges against baseboards. Tape edges down if needed to prevent movement. For furniture, drape plastic over items and tape edges. Use canvas on floors for best grip and absorbency.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Essential for clean painting
✓ Canvas is reusable for years
✓ Absorbent canvas prevents pooling
✓ Protects expensive flooring

Cons

✗ Canvas is heavy and bulky
✗ Plastic can be slippery on floors
✗ Thin plastic tears easily
✗ Must be positioned carefully

Top Brands

Rust-Oleum

Code Requirements

No specific code requirements. Use non-slip materials on walkways to prevent fall hazards during painting projects.

Buying Tips

Invest in one quality 9x12 canvas drop cloth for repeated use. Use disposable plastic for furniture and large areas. Tape plastic edges down on smooth floors to prevent slipping. Fold and store canvas dry after each use.