Carpet padding (CUSHION), not carpet, which is used under the carpets, determines how carpet feels when you walk on it, and helps maintain your carpet's original appearance. Cushion absorbs foot traffic and makes carpet feel better, last longer. Better quality cushion blocks moisture, fights stains and odors, minimizes sound transfer between rooms, provides thermal insulation and increases air flow between the floor and your carpet for better, more efficient vacuuming.