Before purchasing a new rug, there are many factors to consider. Where will the rug be placed in your home? Should you choose a patterned or solid-color rug? What size will fit the space best? Will this rug work well with your furniture? And last but not least, out of the many different rug materials available, which material is best for your home?
Deciding which rug material to look for is one of the first factors you should consider when purchasing a rug. Each material creates a different look and feel, so it’s important to weigh out the pros and cons of each before making your selection.
Ultimately the choice comes down to two factors – durability and comfort. While you may want a cozy shag rug to dig your toes into, it may not be the best option for high-traffic areas. If you’re looking for a durable rug that is easy to clean and will last for years to come, consider the following materials.
1. Wool
A popular choice, wool combines durability and comfort in one. A wool rug can be used in any living, family, or dining room. The resilient fibers in wool can handle high traffic areas, but the softness of wool makes it luxurious as well. Available in many colors and patterns, wool rugs are a great way to go if you’re looking for a statement to bring a room together.
Be mindful of your rug’s exposure to sunlight, as wool tends to fade over time in the sun. Another drawback could be the higher price tag than rugs with synthetic or natural materials.
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of comfort and durability, a wool rug may be the best option out there. Wool is resistant to moisture and dirt, so this material is great if you have a growing family or pets at home. These rugs are truly made to last, and the investment will be well worth it.
2. Polypropylene
Another durable rug material is polypropylene which is a particularly good option if you’re on a budget. Often used in outdoor rugs, polypropylene resists fading in the sunlight. A polypropylene rug is one of the most durable and low-maintenance options out there. If you’re looking for convenience, this is the rug for you.
You can keep this rug outdoors all summer long without any worries because it’s resistant to mildew and moisture. You could even use a polypropylene rug by the swimming pool or in a bathroom. Polypropylene is another good choice for families or those with pets because it is very stain resistant and easy to clean. Just hose off with water and use any kind of cleaning product on it. However, this material may not be as aesthetically pleasing and luxurious as other options.
3. Nylon
Nylon is another durable synthetic material like polypropylene. It is very resistant to abrasions, static, and mildew. It also dries quickly, making it ideal for bathrooms or the outdoors. Nylon has high elasticity, meaning it can stretch under furniture and still retain its shape. It’s also a good choice for using under furniture because it won’t show indentations after holding weight for long periods of time.
Originally developed as a substitute for silk, nylon exhibits colors beautifully and still maintains softness. Easy to clean and stain-resistant, nylon may be the most durable fiber of them all. Nylon is less budget-friendly than polypropylene, but if you’re looking for a beautiful visual aesthetic along with versatility, nylon is a great choice and easier on the wallet than splurging on a silk rug.
4. Sisal
A sisal rug can add a warm and welcoming neutral accent to any room. The strongest and most durable natural fiber, sisal is a non-toxic material often used to create large area rugs. An eye-pleasing weave or braid highlights most sisal rugs, creating depth and texture in any room. A sisal rug would be perfect for a mudroom or hallway which receives a lot of indoor-outdoor foot traffic. Sustainable and 100% biodegradable, a sisal rug is an excellent environmentally friendly choice.
The drawback of this material is that it may stain easily, and it can often feel a bit coarse underfoot. It is also best to use a sisal rug in a room that is not frequently wet, so be sure to avoid using a sisal rug in a kitchen or bathroom.
5. Jute
Jute is a material that exhibits effortless, natural elegance. Similar to a sisal rug, jute can be beige, tan, or golden brown in color which pairs well with any color scheme, and the fibers can also showcase an appealing woven pattern.
Relatively maintenance-free, a jute rug makes an excellent choice for a home with pets or children. A little vacuuming will do the trick for keeping jute clean. Be sure to avoid cleaning a jute rug with water, otherwise, mold will begin to grow over time. Likewise, steer clear of steam cleaning or shampooing.
Thicker than other natural fiber rugs, a jute rug can easily be paired with a chenille rug if you’re looking for a softer touch. Feel free to use a jute rug in any interior design style, whether modern or traditional.
6. Seagrass
Another strong, durable fiber is seagrass. Found primarily in China and India, seagrass is cultivated in water, making it a nonporous fiber – a major advantage. Spilled a bit of wine, food or coffee? Not a problem.
Stains can easily be cleaned using a damp towel and water, without the risk of making a permanent water stain. Want a rug for your bathroom or kitchen? Seagrass is the perfect option. Even more, a seagrass rug is a great choice if you have allergy sensitivities since it won’t attract dust or dirt.
Color options can be a bit limited with seagrass, as the fibers often start with a light green hue which fades with time to a pleasant beige color. Much like sisal and jute, seagrass is also very eco-friendly. An affordable option, a seagrass rug makes an excellent choice for your home if you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting solution.
