Best Truck Bed Liners: Spray, Paints & Drop-In Reviewed

Your truck bed is prone to dents, scratches, and overall wear from the abuse it sees every day. Between the weather and carrying heavy cargo, you owe it to your pickup to invest in the best truck bed liner. To find the ideal option, we evaluate the options as the best truck bed liner to find the style that works for you.

Should I Get A Bed Liner For My Truck?

Features to Look for in a Truck Bed Liner

Truck Bed Condition

You first have to evaluate the current condition of your truck bed. If there is existing corrosion or structural damage to your pickup bed, your options are limited. However, if you plan to apply the truck bed liner straight from the factory, you can choose any type of liner you want.

Bed Liner Type

You have several options to choose from. The best truck bed liner spray might come as a high-pressure or low-pressure application. These are a permanent solution, but you also have to think about the differences between aliphatic vs. aromatic.

Aliphatic compounds will hold up longer and don't fade quickly but are more expensive. Furthermore, you can opt for a drop-in bed liner or a bed mat if you want to be able to take it out. Otherwise, the best DIY truck bed liner paint is another option.

Material

You must consider the material you choose, especially if you want something that will prevent corrosion. If you spend a lot of time hauling heavy equipment, you want a durable bed liner. Pick the truck bed liner material that fits your needs and will last long enough to provide value. Otherwise, your investment simply goes to waste. Evaluate your removable vs. permanent options and look at the different textures to see what fits your needs.

Installation/Application Time

With a drop-in liner or bed mat, the installation will be a breeze. Plus, you can remove it any time you want. If you are looking for a permanent solution, such as a roll-on or spray-on liner, you might need to hire a professional unless you have expertise. If you do plan to do these yourself, allows yourself extra time for application and drying.

Maintenance

What kind of maintenance do you need to perform to keep the bed liner in its best condition? With a bed mat, you will only need to take it out and clean it off. The spray-on or roll-on liners require that you regularly keep the truck bed clean and free of debris. Read through the product descriptions to see what’s expected of you.

Price & Warranty – value for money

We all want bed liners for trucks that are cheap and last long, but that's not always a natural combination to find. You can search for truck bed liners & mats by price, but you also want to evaluate the additional expense associated with it.

For example, the truck bed spray liner cost goes up significantly if you need professional installation. Make sure you consider every aspect before making your decision. It's helpful if the company provides a warranty, which offers further value to the purchase. 

1. U-Pol Products RAPTOR

If you plan to use a DIY truck bed liner, you won’t find much better than this U-Pol product. It’s designed to be ten times tougher than most other bed liner options. You can also apply it to a variety of surfaces. When you are done covering the truck bed, move on to any concrete, wood, plastic, or metal that you want to protect. One kit will cover a medium to a large truck bed, as it is designed for 125 square feet.

To use it, you will simply fill and shake. Then, apply the spray onto the truck bed in an even pattern. The material dries quickly. It provides a complete UV-resistant surface that also protects against stains and scratches. You won't have to worry about extreme temperatures, corrosion, or rust with this solution. It's completely waterproof and also deadens sound.

Each kit comes with four Raptor bottles and a tin of hardener. You can also use an application gun to make the process faster. While the price of this bed liner is reasonable, there is no warranty offered by the company. It makes sense that you won’t get a guarantee since you are applying it yourself, but it’s something to consider.

2. Herculiner HCL1B8

Many people will rank the Herculiner as the best roll on truck bed liner, and they wouldn't be wrong. This brand is regularly regarded as a leader when it comes to providing a complete truck bed liner kit. This selection comes complete with a gallon of black protective coating, two rollers, and an application brush to make application as simple as possible. You can also choose the kit with a quart if you don't need as much.

This material adds an extra shine to your truck bed. With the additional material, you can apply it to wood, concrete, metal, and more. The tough, textured polyurethane coating will protect the truck bed for the life of the vehicle if you take care of it. Considering the low price, that's quite a value. When compared with other roll-on options, this brand is five times thicker, so you don't need to apply as many layers.

Plus, the material is skid-resistant. You will find loading, and unloading cargo is easier than ever. With this formula, you can also expect it to remain peel, flake, and chip-free for a beautiful appearance years later. Keep in mind; this product doesn’t include a warranty; you will use it at your own risk.

3. Rough Country RCM640

As you look through the selection of Ford truck bed liners, you will find this option from Rough Country has some of the best reviews. This rubber truck bed liner fits the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with a 5.5-foot bed. The precise fit is made possible thanks to custom molding and the durable Nyracord rubber material. With this textured mat, you can have the non-skid surface you need to reduce load shifting.

Plus, it is abrasion resistant to provide superior durability. The extra rugged design is complemented by the 3/8-inch thick material that offers just the right amount of cushion. Because it features knobs, there is another layer of protection against mildew and rust because the bed is kept dry. Rough Country produces its bed liners in the United States and gives all customers a limited lifetime warranty.

To install this truck bed liner, simply roll it out and put it in place. It doesn't get any easier. You also can't beat the price. While this liner does take steps to reduce moisture, you must take it out occasionally and clean the truck bed. Otherwise, water could get trapped and cause problems to the bed, but that doesn't seem to be a major concern with most users.

4. BedRug BRC07SBK

It’s time to protect your Silverado and Sierra truck bed. This model works with the 2007+ models with a six-foot six-inch bed. Because it has a rugged construction, you won’t have trouble carrying the heaviest cargo. This bed liner features a ¾-inch cushioned floor that is easy on your knees as well. The 100% polypropylene design means that spills wash right off. That includes battery acid, oil, and bleach. 

This particular bed liner is designed to protect your truck bed from any damage and dings. Plus, it's molded to fit your specific GM model. The void-free surface allows access to your existing accessories and tie-downs. The material itself is UV-resistant, so fading will never be an issue. Plus, water runs off the top and out through the zippered perimeter to prevent moisture from getting underneath. When it comes time to clean the bed liner, just use some water and a hose.

5. U-Pol Raptor

Another option as the best DIY spray truck bed liner is this product from U-Pol. It’s very similar to the earlier bed liner we discussed and provides enough material to spray even the more extensive truck beds. Because the material is abrasion and stain-resistant, you won't need to be gentle with it. This bed liner is made for tough jobs.

Plus, the material protects the truck bed from extreme temperatures and rust corrosion. With the waterproof, thick material, you will also notice a dampening of vibrations and noise. If you have any leftover product, consider using it on fiberglass, aluminum, metal, concrete, and wood. The bed liner kit comes with four bottles of the base, one bottle of hardener that you mix in, and a free application gun.

Once you put your two-part urethane liner on your truck bed, you won’t have to worry about it for the life of your truck. Just maintain it and keep it clean. To apply this liner, you will need to take the truck bed down to bare metal that’s treated with etch primer. This requires a little extra work than some other applications, so plan accordingly. In addition, there is no warranty from U-Pol, but the reviews offer plenty of reassurance that it’s a great option.

6. DualLiner

You can look for “drop in truck bed liners near me," or you can go with the leader in the industry. DualLiner makes a durable and rugged liner for the 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the five-foot six-inch bed. Plus, it has a pre-cut design for the factory LED lights and the Box Link system. The hard sidewall design offers exceptional dent protection, so you can get your work done.

Plus, all DualLiner products are made in the United States and come with a lifetime warranty. If that’s not enough, how about the 3/8-inch ZeroSkid floor that keeps cargo right where you put it. There is no more shifting while traveling. You will notice that this mat is much thicker than the spray-on bed liners on the market, which just further proves the protection you receive.

On the underside of the mat, you will find cleats that keep it from lying flat. This design also improves the drainage, so you don’t have to worry about moisture. Of course, it is one of the more expensive options on our list, so that’s something to keep in mind. However, the reviews can’t say enough good about the protection and quality, so there’s nothing to lose.

7. Rust-Oleum

If you don’t want to spring for bed liner covers for trucks and you aren’t interested in a carpet truck bed liner, this option might work for you. The Rustoleum truck bed liner is ideal for any part of your truck maintenance. It can be used on the bed, rails, and running boards for a complete solution. The top-selling feature is the price, but you will need additional tools to get the job done. This isn't a complete kit.

When Rust-Oleum is applied correctly, it does protect against scratches, weather damage, and rust, while also providing a unique appearance. If done right, people will assume you had a professional bed liner installed. You can choose whether to roll it on or brush it on, just be careful to follow all of the directions.

The polymer coating will apply evenly and look uniform. Plus, it dries quickly so that you won't be without the truck bed for long. You also don't need to prime the truck bed to get started, which is a nice aspect. You won't see as many good reviews with this option because it's not a professional bed liner product, but any DIY-enthusiasts can fool even the harshest critic with a little elbow grease.

8. Bedrug 1513100

Dodge enthusiasts need access to a high-quality bed liner as well. This BedRug model fits the 2009-2015 Ram 1500 pickups with a five-foot seven-inch bed. Because it features a TPO composite surface, you don't need to do any sanding or prepping. Plus, the installation doesn't cause any damage, as some other models do. Just install it with the hook and loop application to enjoy the custom contoured fit.

This liner is ¼-inch thick and features a closed-cell textured anti-skid surface to keep your cargo in place. The thick foam layer offers more dent protection and is easy on the knees. Plus, the non-woven backing doesn’t scratch up your pickup bed. It also allows for proper drainage, so you won’t have to worry about trapped moisture corroding the truck bed.

You are going to pay a good amount more for this liner, but the time saved on installation alone makes up for it. Plus, the company offers a limited lifetime guarantee, which only proves that they stand by their products. This liner truly is the top of the range and worth every penny. Just read through some of the reviews from satisfied customers. It won’t take long before you are completely sold too.

Installation/Application of Truck Bed Liners

The method used to apply a truck bed liner depends heavily on what type you choose. No matter what option you pick, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a successful installation. Some types are much more straightforward than others. For example, if you choose a bed mat, installation won't take long at all. Here's an example of a BedRug bed mat installation.

The drop-in bedliner does take more effort and some tools but is still relatively simple. Here’s another example.

For your permanent options, you can choose to roll-on, brush-on, or spray-on the material. These wet applications require layers to form a protective coating, so it does require more time as you wait for each layer to dry. Here's an example of how to install a roll-on bed liner.

Measuring Your Truck Bed

Proper Maintenance of Truck Bed Liners

What is the best way to clean a truck bed liner? While the maintenance depends on what type you buy, here are some general tips to follow. If you are cleaning a removable top, make sure there is no water left between the liner and the truck bed. You also want to keep the area free of debris. Furthermore, it's crucial that you don't drag items around on the truck bed liner. By adding a tonneau cover, you can help protect the truck bed liner from the elements as well.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is Rhino liner or LineX better? What are the best bed liner manufacturers?

What is the best bed liner for trucks? The answer depends on what you need. No matter what type you are looking for, you will find brands that receive higher reviews than most. We recommend U-Pol, Herculiner, BedRug, and DualLiner, among others.

Do truck bed liners cause rust?

If you allow moisture to get trapped between the bed liner and the truck bed, you will experience corrosion and rust. That's part of the benefit of using a roll-on, brush-on, or spray-on version, which seals out the elements.

Are all bed liners black?

No. You can find a variety of colors, especially when doing your own truck bed liner paint job.

What are the costs associated with a truck bed liner?

Initially, you will only have the truck bed liner cost and associated equipment you need. Then, if you need professional help applying the bed truck liner spray, you will need to factor that into the price as well.

Does spray in bed liner void warranty?

The bed liner itself won’t void your warranty. However, if you happen to get truck bed liner paint on your pickup, you could void the paint and corrosion warranty.

How long do these truck bed liners last?

If you take care of your truck bed liner, it can last the life of your pickup. The key is maintaining it and keeping it clean.

Is DIY spray on truck bed liner advisable?

If you are skilled in automotive paint, there’s no reason you couldn’t tackle the job yourself. With that said, there’s no shame in hiring a professional to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Can I use bed liner spray on other surfaces?

Have you heard of painting a truck with bed liner? Many people do it, but that’s not all that can be done with truck bed liner spray. It applies to a variety of surfaces, including wood and metal.

What is the best type of truck bed liner? Are spray in bed liners better?

It depends on what your needs are. You can choose the best-rated truck bed mat if you want something simple, but the spray-in options offer a permanent solution.

Conclusion