6/7

Best for Carpet Protection

TapeManBlue Carpet Protection Film

If your painting project will take place in a room with carpet, you’ll need a painters drop cloth that adheres to the fibers in carpeting. TapeManBlue Carpet Protection Film is a thin plastic skin that does just that, yet won’t leave behind any sticky residue, marks or damage.

It’s tear- and puncture-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it ripping. The heavy-duty film protects against not only spills and water damage, but any tracked in construction debris as well. No tools are required to install it: Once it’s down, it stays there until you pull it up.

Pros

• Adheres to the top of carpeting
• Affordable
• Tear- and puncture-resistant
• Clean removal

Cons

• May need two people for proper installation

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7/7

Best for Exteriors

B-Air Grizzly Tarp

Moisture, dirt and leaves can all pose challenges when painting outdoors, but the B-Air Grizzly Tarp is up to the task. This painters tarp is made from tightly woven polyethylene fibers and is a reliable option for collecting falling debris when you’re sanding a structure or painting wood siding.

When finished, just dump the mess into the garbage, wash off the tarp, and it’s ready for the next stage of the project. It comes in various sizes, and each features built-in aluminum grommets every 36 inches for secure tie-downs when the wind picks up.

Pros

• Easy to clean
• Available in several sizes
• Can be used indoors and outdoors
• Includes grommets for secure tie-downs

Cons

• Some buyers say the tarp is thinner than expected

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What to Consider When Buying a Painters Drop Cloth

When looking for the best painters drop cloth, consider your project and what you need covered. If you have slick hardwood or tile flooring, consider a drop cloth with little rubberized dots to help it stay put. If you’re working outside, look for options you can tie in place. You’ll also want to think about how much you’re willing to spend, and if you want a painters drop cloth that can be washed and reused.

Types of Painters Drop Cloths

• Canvas drop cloths are an ideal option for covering flooring and furniture when you’re painting inside. They absorb most paint spills and trap dust and debris.
• Plastic and vinyl drop cloths are waterproof and perfect for draping over furniture and covering odd shapes. While more affordable, they’re not eco-friendly and they won’t absorb spills.
• Paper drop cloths are a go-to for smaller projects, such as painting trim. They’re recyclable, inexpensive and can be cut to fit your space. However, they tend to tear easily and aren’t the best option for working outside.
• Protective films are a non-slip material that clings to carpet and furniture. However, it can be time-consuming to put down and may require two people.
• Tarps are an excellent drop cloth option for outdoor work, such as preparing your exterior for paint. They are easy to clean and often have grommets allowing you to tie them down.

How We Found the Best Painters Drop Cloth

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

FAQ

Are painters drop cloths waterproof?

Some painters drop cloths are water-resistant, preventing the penetration of water to some degree. Opt for plastic or vinyl if you’re looking for waterproof options.

Will paint bleed through canvas drop cloths?

Paint should not bleed through canvas drop cloths. Canvas is the material of choice for many professional painters as it is absorbing and has a tight weave.

Do drop cloths shrink when washed?

Canvas drop cloths do have a tendency to shrink when washed and dried. Before washing, check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.