Picking the right rug for your home may seem like a simple enough task, but in actuality, there are many factors you have to take into consideration. From size to style to the room the rug will go in, all of these elements play a big part in whether the rug you pick is well suited to your space. There is, however, one rug factor that stands out as being more important than the rest to many people – its material.
The material of a rug is ultimately what determines its durability, function, and feel. Going with the wrong type of material just might mean your rug will last you less than a year, and nobody wants that! Here’s how to pick rug materials that suit your space.
Consider Cost
Before you pick an appropriate rug material for your home, you have to determine how much you’re willing to spend on this furnishing. A general rule of thumb to follow when purchasing a rug is to look for one that is a total of two feet shorter than the smallest wall in the room. This typically means you’ll end up needing a fairly large rug, and quality rugs that take up a lot of space don’t come cheap!
Rugs made from natural materials, like wool or silk, are much higher quality than their synthetic counterparts, and they come with a much higher price tag. In fact, sometimes a good quality natural rug can end up costing you just as much as your sofa! This breakdown will give you some insight into the difference between natural fibre rugs and synthetic fibre rugs:
Natural Fibers
Natural fibre rugs are made of natural materials that contain no toxic chemicals. They are hand-tufted, hand-knotted or flat woven and much more durable than synthetic fibres. Not surprisingly, natural fibres are also much better for the environment than their counterparts and don’t release harmful gases. Here are some of the most common natural fibre rugs:
Cotton Rugs
Cotton rugs are soft to the touch, and dye easily and typically come in a braided or flat weave. They are extremely durable and machine-washable, making them an ideal choice for homes with children and pets. Cotton rugs are also less expensive than other natural materials like wool.
Jute and Sisal Rugs
These renewable fibre rugs are tough, durable, and versatile. Their tight weaves allow for a wider range of textures and styles that other natural fibres cannot achieve. Some downsides to jute and sisal rugs are that they are more coarse than cotton rugs and stains tend to be difficult to remove.
Silk Rugs
This natural filament fibre is known for its unrivalled softness and delicate, luxurious qualities. Even though silk is often sought after for the expensive look that comes from its high sheen, for durability purposes, it is often combined with wool.
Wool Rugs
Wool constitutes the best combination of durability and softness, which why it is the most common material used in rugs. It is easy to dye and holds its colour and shape for a long time. This textile fibre repels liquid, but it is prone to pilling and shedding.
Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic rugs are usually mass-produced and machine-made. These rugs are easily customizable, but they are made of petroleum-based fibres, which are a non-renewable resource. Here are some of the most common synthetic fibre rugs:
Nylon Rugs
This human-made fibre appears silk-like and is strong and durable. It is easy to clean, and there’s no limit in terms of the colours it can be made into, but it is usually acid dyed. This dyeing method can lead to fading and other issues in the long run.
Polyester Rugs
Polyester rugs are known for their durability and inexpensive price tag. This material is resistant to mildew and tends to age well in low traffic areas. The biggest downside to polyester fibre is that oily substances leave permanent stains.
Polypropylene Rugs
Also known as olefin, polypropylene rugs are much less expensive than nylon rugs, and they are soft and stain-resistant. This material is resistant to mould and doesn’t fade in the sunlight, making it an ideal choice for an outdoor setting. Try to limit the amount of furniture movement on these rugs as the friction can cause abrasion and permanent damage.
Also Read: Guide to Rug Cleaning and Rug Repair
Armed with this rug guide, you’ll be well equipped to select a rug material that’s suited to your home and lifestyle. And when your rug is in need of a bit of sprucing up, look no further than Love Your Rug. We are the largest rug cleaning company in the GTA, and our professional rug cleaning and rug repair services are unmatched by competitors. Contact us today to get a free quote!
