Best DIY Bedliner: We Help You Protect Your Truck

Your truck is always there for you, hauling your goods and towing your trailer, so what can you do to show your love? Whether you drive a Chevy, Ford or Dodge, you can protect the truck bed and keep it looking its best.

The good news is, there are hundreds of products that can be used, ranging from economical to advanced. However, all of these products mean you need to do your research before making a purchase. That’s where we come in. We’ve already looked at the best DIY bedliner options and have picked our favorites.

We’ve included several different types to make the selection easier for you. All you need to do is pick one and install it.

What is a Bedliner?

The truck bed liner is a product that shields the bed from damage and debris. It can create a skid-resistant surface that keeps cargo securely in place. The bedliner comes in many styles and applications, but all of them seek to do the same thing.

There are numerous ways to install a bed liner, more about that in a few minutes.

Benefits of Using a Truck Bed Liner

Taking care of your truck bed is a top priority and the bed liner can provide a lot of benefits. Here are a few of the bedliner advantages you might not have thought about.

• UV protection
• Maintains resale value
• Creates non-slip surface
• Protects against corrosion
• Low maintenance
• Adds aesthetic appeal

DIY Bed Liner Buying Guide

Before your purchase a DIY bedliner, you want to consider these aspects, giving more weight to the criteria that are important to you.

1. Purpose

In a little while, we will be looking at the various types of bedliners, each offering a unique purpose. It’s important that you know what you want to get out of the bed liner so you can choose the right type. However, beyond the type, the purpose tells you what other aspects to look for.

As an example, if you want something that stops the cargo from sliding, you are going to look for a textured bedliner. On the other hand, if you are loading heavy items, you might prefer a slick option that helps you load and unload easier.

2. Application Method

You can apply your bedliner in several different ways. Most people opt to spray, roll or brush the bedliner in, but there are also drop-in bedliners that make installation simple. Research the ways the bed liner can be applied to ensure you can do it the way you want.

3. Color

If you are looking for a colored bed liner, you might have to do a little more searching. The majority of what’s on the market is black, but that’s not the only choice. You can also find a white bed liner, colored options and tintable products.

However, don’t overlook the value of a sleek black bedliner. This color is universal and it looks great with any truck, including those bright yellows and reds.

4. Ease of Use

If you want to save yourself the professional installation fees, look for a product that’s easy to install yourself. A bed liner kit ensures you have everything you need to perform the installation. Read the customer reviews to find out just how simple installation really is.

Additionally, a fast-drying bed liner is the most convenient to use because you won’t have to shield your truck bed for days on end.

5. Durability

The truck bed is going to endure a lot of stress. If you plan on putting a bed liner in, it must stand up against the abuse. From scratches to the elements, check to ensure your bed liner has the protection you demand. You can find UV-resistant and scratch-resistant options on the market, but they will cost more.

In addition, you should check to see what the warranty is. If the company is proud of its product, a warranty is usually offered for more protection.

6. Price

We understand the need to find a cheap bedliner, but the price can’t be your only consideration. Saving up a little longer to get a high-quality bed  liner will make all the difference. Buy your bed liner from a reputable brand to ensure satisfaction.

9 Best DIY Bedliner Options: Our Top Choices Reviewed

1. Rust-Oleum Truck Bed Coating: Best DIY Bedliner Review

The customers can’t say enough about the Rust-Oleum truck bed coating. After all, the company knows a thing or two about rust and preventing it. This roll-on bedliner comes in a typical paint can for easy installation. With your brush or roller, you can achieve a new truck bed finish in no time. Plus, the curing time is only four hours.

The layers are nice and thick, but you can add extra ones if you require heavy-duty protection. Once it is applied, you will notice the black thick texture that gives your bed some extra grip. This design prevents cargo from slipping around.

Sadly, Rust-Oleum doesn’t offer a lot of color options. Plus, you are going to spend more than with most other brands. If you desire the best protection, the extra money spent should be seen as an insurance policy.

Features:

• Size: 32 oz.
• Method: Roll-on, Brush-on
• Color: Black
• Finish: Textured
• Optimal Rust Protection

Pros	Cons
Trusted brand	Expensive
Easy to apply	Only one color option
Textured finish for more grip
Fast curing time

2. Rustoleum Bed Liner Spray: Best Spray Can Bedliner Review

There’s really nothing easier to use than a spray can bedliner. Just purchase the can, prepare your area and spray away. It’s the ideal option for any DIYer that doesn’t have a lot of experience. Who could you trust more with this type of product than Rust-Oleum? As a leader in rust protection, it’s the obvious option for your truck bed.

This spray is going to provide a textured finish that lets your truck look its best and provides better grip. The spray perfectly conforms to the bed’s shape for even coverage. Plus, the coating is impact- and weather-resistant, so fading shouldn’t be an issue. It can also reduce road noise while hauling precious cargo.

Unlike the previous product, you can choose a variety of colors, either black, clear or tan for the perfect aesthetic appeal. However, this can won’t go far. To cover your entire truck bed, you are going to need to purchase multiple spray cans.

Features:

• Size: 15 oz.
• Method: Spray-on
• Color: Black, Clear, Tan
• Finish: Textured
• Easy Spray-on Application

Pros	Cons
Low-cost	Requires multiple cans
Fast application
Textured finish
Several color options

3. WeatherTech Bed Liner: Best Plastic Bed Liner Review

This plastic bed liner fits the Dodge Ram 1500 (4th Gen) with a 6′ 4″ bed, although the company makes options for all trucks. With the simple installation, you don’t have to perform any drilling or apply any chemicals to your truck bed. In just a few minutes, you are back on the road again.

This bed liner fits the truck bed perfectly and is made from odorless, recyclable thermoplastic elastomer to be durable and flexible. It’s not only UV-resistant but will also ward off chemicals. With the “soft touch” material, cargo won’t shift any longer, but loading and unloading aren’t hindered.

While this seems like a good option for anyone that doesn’t want a permanent solution, you must know that this type of liner can lead to corrosion. If the liner cracks or breaks, water can seep through and rust the truck bed. However, it’s a good alternative if you just need something temporarily.

Features:

• Fits: Dodge Ram 1500 (4th Gen) with a 6′ 4″ bed
• Method: Drop-in
• Color: Black
• Finish: “Soft-Touch” Material
• UV-resistant

Pros	Cons
Quick solution	Can lead to corrosion
Chemical-resistant
No drilling required
Durable construction

4. Dupli-Color BAK2010 Bed Armor: Best Bed Liner Kit Review

DIY bedliners have a tough job to do, but they still need to be safe. This water-based liner is safe for the environment and user, plus it is easy to clean up. You will also appreciate the low-odor level, unlike some products that knock you over with the fumes.

Because it is a complete kit, you get everything you need to install the liner, including a brush and roller. After the installation, you will have a durable, rubberized finish that protects the bed from chipping and flaking. Plus, the formula ensures some corrosion protection, so you don’t have to deal with truck bed rust.

Dupli-color makes several bed liner options, but this kit only comes in black. It’s also important to note that it isn’t the toughest option in the bunch. If you regularly carry heavy cargo, you might want something a little thicker and stronger, according to the Dupli-Color Bed Armor reviews.

Features:

• Size: 1-gallon
• Method: Roll-on, Brush-on
• Color: Black
• Finish: Textured
• Complete kit

Pros	Cons
Low odor	Not the strongest option
Water-based
Easy installation
Rubberized finish

5. Custom Coat Urethane Spray-On: Best Bed Liner Spray Gun Review

By using a urethane coating, you end up with a premium finish that is sure to last longer. Plus, this kit includes what you need for application, including the sprayer. Just add the included hardener, shake the bottle and spray it on. If you would prefer to roll or brush it on, that’s possible too.

The 135-ounce mixture is enough to put on two coats with the largest truck bed. Once the installation is done, you won’t need to apply any wax because it is stain- and abrasion-resistant. Plus, the premium formula resists chipping and prevents damage from impact.

The waterproof finish also prevents rusting. Plus, it dampens sound and reduces vibrations. However, the bedliner spreads thin, so you will need to put on multiple coats for the appropriate thickness. On the bright side, it dries fast, so the application shouldn’t take long.

Features:

• Size: 1-gallon
• Method: Spray-on, Roll-on, Brush-on
• Color: Black
• Finish: Textured
• Complete kit

Pros	Cons
Premium finish	Requires several coats
Stain-resistant
Dries fast
Textured finish

6. Husky Liners 16008: Best Bed Mat Review

You can adequately protect your 2015-2019 Ford F-150 5.8′ bed without spending a lot of money or doing a lot of work. This truck bed mat is a simple drop-in solution that is easy to remove down the road. The tough material ensures that the bed stays protected.

With the DuraGrip HD anti-skid surface, your cargo is held securely in place, so nothing shifts around. Plus, it doesn’t have a noxious odor. The Air Dry Nibs elevate the mat slightly, so air passes through and moisture stays out. However, with any bed mat, there’s always the chance of trapped water, which could lead to corrosion.

While bed mats are often recommended, this would be the best option if you were going to buy one. It’s highly rated and fits perfectly to your truck bed. Husky Liners also makes options for other brands.

Features:

• Fits: 2015-2019 Ford F-150 5.8′ Bed
• Method: Drop-in
• Color: Black
• Finish: Textured
• DuraGrip HD Anti-Skid Surface

Pros	Cons
Quick installation and removal	Might cause rust if water gets trapped
Custom fit
Durable materials
Highly rated brand

7. Al’s Liner: Best Tintable Bed Liner Review

If you desire a tintable bedliner, Al’s makes a great option for that custom appearance. The texture is even customizable, so you can create it to be smooth or textured. As a UV-stable product, there’s no worry about fading. Plus, the formula is resistant to scratches and stains.

You will likely need to apply several coats, but at 128 ounces, you should have plenty to go around. Additionally, the bedliner is resistant to solvents, oil, gasoline and chemicals, so your bed won’t endure more damage than it needs to.

While installation is a breeze, some customers have commented that the formula hardens too quickly. That might seem like a good problem, but it can create issues during installation if you don’t move fast enough. Use this solution on more than just the bed, but consider using it on the fender walls, bed rails and rocker panels too.

Features:

• Size: 1-Gallon
• Method: Spray-on
• Color: Tintable
• Finish: Smooth or Textured
• Completely Customizable

Pros	Cons
Versatile enough for use on other parts	Often dries too fast
Tintable
Premium formulation
UV-resistant

8. Herculiner HCL0B7-01: Best Roll-On Bed Liner Review

Herculiner is a known brand for quality bedliners, so you know this quart is going to provide what you need. This 32-ounce can of bedliner material goes on easily and creates a textured, tough polyurethane coating that holds up against the elements. Even if you are hard on your truck bed, this bed liner is going to protect.

You can count on the rust prevention, ensuring corrosion doesn’t become a problem. When compared to some of the lower-end options, this formula can be about five times thicker. With the skid-resistant surface, you won’t have to worry about your cargo sliding all over the truck bed every time you step on the brakes.

Herculiner does include a brush, but it’s poor quality. We recommend buying your own to do the installation. Most brushes only cost a few bucks, so it’s nothing to get upset about. Additionally, some complaints have remarked about the excessive drying time. It’s probably due to the thicker coat, so you should probably allow yourself a little longer for installation.

Features:

• Size: 32 oz.
• Method: Roll-on, Brush-on
• Color: Black
• Finish: Textured
• Thick, Durable Protection

Pros	Cons
Ultimate protection	Included brush is flimsy
Skid-resistant surface	Takes longer to dry
Rust prevention
Reasonable price

9. Bedrug BMT19CCS: Best Budget Bedliner Review

If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, but you want some truck bed protection, a mat might be the way to go. This particular Bedrug fits the 2019+ (New Body Style) Ram 5’7″ Bed, but there’s others for a variety of makes and models.

The 100% Polypropylene bed mat provides an ultra tough work surface that is slip- and skid-resistant. When you pile the bed full of cargo, you will appreciate that it isn’t sliding around. Plus, the comfort level is high, offering you the feel you need when you are crawling around on your knees.

This bed mat is waterproof, stain-resistant and protects against chemicals. However, just like other drop-in liners of its kind, there is little protection from rust. Water can easily get trapped underneath leading to rust in a short time. That’s why we always recommend going with a spray-in, roll-on or brush-on bedliner, unless you are looking for something that’s not permanent.

Features:

• Fits: 2019+ (New Body Style) Ram 5’7″ Bed
• Method: Drop-in
• Color: Black
• Finish: Textured
• Cushioned for Comfort

Pros	Cons
Durable construction	Could allow water to become trapped
Skid-resistant surface
Stain-resistant
Fast installation

Different Types of Truck Bed Coating: Spray vs. Roll vs. Drop

There are multiple types of bedliners you can buy. Here’s what you need to know about the spray-in bedliner vs. roll-on bedliner vs drop-in bedliners.

Spray-In Bedliners

The spray-in bedliner is one of the most popular options. Not only will this type provide superior coverage, but it is also easy to install. You use a spray gun and shoot the paint onto the truck bed. What you are left with is a rough texture that keeps the cargo from moving around.

Plus, this type of bed liner requires virtually no maintenance. However, it is the most expensive option available.

Spray-In Bedliner Pros:

• Works with any truck type
• Requires virtually no maintenance
• Long-lasting protection
• Moisture-resistant
• Easy to apply

Spray-In Bedliner Cons:

• Expensive

Roll-On Bedliners

What do you do if you like the texture and coverage of the spray-in bedliner, but you don’t want to spend the money? In this case, the roll-on bedliner might be a better option. It offers the same level of performance, but you roll it on instead of spraying.

The product will come in a large can, like paint. Then, you apply it with a brush or roller. This application is more intensive than simply spraying, so get ready to work. With that said, you are going to save a good chunk of change over the sprayable variety, so you need to decide what’s more important – your money or your time.

Additionally, this type of bed liner can take a little longer to dry. However, when the bed liner is dry, you will have a durable and damage-resistant coating that is sure to last.

Roll-On Bedliners Pros:

• More affordable option
• Damage-resistant
• Same look at the spray-in

Roll-On Bedliners Cons:

• Takes longer to dry
• Requires more installation time and effort

Drop-In Bedliners

These are often the most cost-effective of the bunch. You buy a single piece of molded plastic and lay it in the truck bed. You can also buy truck mats that cover a portion of the bed. Installation couldn’t be any easier.

However, this style can easily leave part of the truck bed exposed to the elements. When water gets trapped between the liner and the bed, corrosion begins. Additionally, these can shift around at times, unlike the other two options.

For the most part, this isn’t the recommended way to install a bed liner. However, we realize that you might need this type if you are on a tight budget or require something that is removable.

Drop-In Bedliners Pros:

• Fast installation
• Easy to remove
• Low-cost

Drop-In Bedliners Cons:

• Water can accumulate, causing rust
• Shifting is more likely

What Bedliner Type is Right for You?

If you are most concerned about the cost, you could go with a drop-in liner and upgrade later. However, we recommend at least trying to invest in the roll-on liner for better protection.

However, if you have the money to do it right and you want the best look, the spray-in bedliner is always the best option, as long as you are looking for something permanent.

How to Install the Best DIY Bed Liner

Your bed liner installation instructions vary based on what type you choose.

Drop In Bedliner Installation Instructions

1. Clean the pickup truck bed, making sure there isn’t any dust or dirt. You should use a strong cleaning solvent and let the bed dry completely before moving onto the next step.
2. Flex the bed liner corners and sides down to ensure an easy installation.
3. Position the liner in your truck bed. With a one-piece liner, you can drop it in and adjust it. Tuck in the corners if needed.
4. If you have multiple pieces, you want to start with the front and side panels. Afterward, you will put the lower parts in place, interlocking them with the other panels.
5. Secure with the fasteners included in the kit.

Here’s a video illustration.

Roll On Bedliner Installation Instructions

1. Wash the truck bed to remove all dirt and debris. Allow it to dry completely.
2. Tape off any parts you don’t want to be painted.
3. Scuff all of the painting surfaces to ensure solid adhesion.
4. Wipe the truck bed with acetone.
5. Brush the liner on with even strokes.
6. You could also choose to use a paint roller.
7. Allow it to dry before any further coats and don’t take the truck on the road for at least 24 hours.

Here’s a video illustration.

Spray In Bedliner Installation Instructions

1. Prepare the bed by washing it and letting it dry.
2. Scuff the surface of the bed and wipe all the dust out.
3. Mask off any areas you don’t want painted.
4. Use a primer if recommended by the manufacturer.
5. Test your spray gun to ensure a quality finish. You can test it on a spare piece of cardboard.
6. Spray the gun in even, sweeping motions, 18-inches from the surface.
7. Apply a thin coat and allow ten minutes for drying before reapplying.
8. Remove the tap and let the liner dry for the recommended amount of time.

Here’s a video illustration.

Other Uses for Bed Liner

If you have leftover bed liner product, there’s a multitude of things you can do with it. Consider these options.

1. Undercoat your ATV.
2. Paint the bottom of your shoes.
3. Paint the interior floor of your off-road vehicle.
4. Perform a custom paint job on your motorcycle.
5. Paint your cellphone cover.
6. Apply protection to your tools.
7. Apply it to the fender wells.
8. Prevent pipe corrosion with a thin layer.
9. Use it on ramps and outdoor surfaces to create better grip.
10. Paint your staircase or handrails.
11. Increase the safety of your pool deck with a quick layer.

Truck Bedliner FAQ

How much does it cost to get a truck bed lined?

If you can do it yourself, you will only have to pay for the cost of materials. Otherwise, it could cost several thousand dollars to have a professional truck bed liner installation.

Do drop-in bedliners cause rust?

Moisture can easily get under the drop-on bedliner, which could lead to rust. Additionally, the drop-in bedliner is susceptible to ripping and cracking, which ruins your investment.

Are spray-on bedliners worth it?

If you buy a high-quality bed liner that offers UV protection and other guarantees, you are going to get your money out of it. By keeping the truck bed in premium condition, you ensure a higher resale value down the road.

How do you remove spray-on bedliner?

It’s a complicated process to remove spray-on bedliner. You will need a heat gun and chisel to get the pieces off. You can also use a paint scraper, but that could take a while.

Does bed liner come in colors?

While the majority of bed liners come in black, there are some options if you require customization. We included a few options with other color choices, or you might prefer a tintable bed liner, such as Al’s. With this option, you could effectively create any color you desire for a perfect aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

We have looked at several options as the best DIY bedliner, now it’s up to you. What truck liner will you choose to protect the bed? With a little care and some work, you can keep your truck looking new, even years later.

Here’s a summary of our top 9 picks: