Rug Materials 101: A Quick Guide to Choosing the Right One

Looking for a quick guide to help you choose the right rug material that fits your space, lifestyle, and budget?


Whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading your current rug, we've got you covered.


In this guide, we'll break down the pros and cons of popular rug materials, including wool, jute, and synthetic options, to help you make an informed decision. 


So, if you're ready to put an end to your rug-retting and find your perfect match, let's dive in!

Wool Rugs

They are a popular choice for their soft feel and durability. Wool rugs are great at insulating and can keep your feet warm on cold days. They are also naturally flame-resistant and can resist stains, making them a great option for homes with kids and pets. However, wool rugs occasionally shed, which can be a concern for some homeowners. They're also typically more expensive than other rug materials.


Ideal for: Living rooms, dining rooms, and high-traffic areas


Qualities:

  • High durability 
  • Spot Cleaning
  • Soft Texture
  • Sustainable
  • High-cost

Jute Rugs

Jute rugs are a great choice for their natural texture and affordability. They have a coarse, rustic feel that can add an organic touch to any room. These natural fibre rugs are also relatively easy to clean and be vacuumed or spot cleaned with soap and water. However, they're not as durable as wool or synthetic rugs and can be prone to stains.


Ideal for: Living rooms, high-traffic and sunny areas


Qualities:

  • Medium Durability
  • Vacuumed, spot-cleaning
  • Firm Texture
  • Sustainable, Hypoallergenic
  • Low-Cost

Viscose Rugs

Viscose rugs are made from a soft, silky material that can give your home a luxurious feel. They are also great at reflecting light, giving your room a bright, airy feel. However, they're not very durable and can be difficult to clean. They're also prone to water damage, so it's important to avoid spills and moisture.


Ideal for: Bedrooms, living rooms


Qualities:

  • Medium Durability
  • Spot-clean, Gentle cleaning
  • Soft Texture
  • Machine-Made
  • Medium Cost

Synthetic Rugs

Synthetic rugs are made from man-made fibres. They are durable, affordable, and come in a wide range of colours and patterns. However, synthetic rugs may not be as soft or comfortable and not as eco-friendly as natural fibre rugs.


Let’s take a closer look at these materials: 


Polyester rugs have a natural resistance to wrinkles and creases, meaning that rugs made from this material will look smooth and wrinkle-free even after extended use.

Polypropylene rugs are hydrophobic, meaning that it repels water. This makes it an excellent choice for use in outdoor rugs or in areas of the home that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

Microfiber rugs are highly absorbent, meaning that they can hold up to seven times its weight in water. This makes it an excellent choice for use in bath mats or other rugs that will be exposed to moisture.

Acrylic rugs are less likely to attract dirt and dust than natural fibres like wool. This means that rugs made from acrylic fibres will stay cleaner for longer, making them an excellent choice for households with pets or young children.


Ideal for: Hallways, outdoor areas (Note- not all synthetic rugs are suitable for outdoor use), high-traffic zones, and sunny spots.


Qualities:

  • High durability
  • Washable/Easy to clean
  • Soft Texture
  • Machine-made
  • Medium cost

Cotton Rugs

Cotton rugs are soft and lightweight. This classic material is perfect for creating a relaxed, natural vibe in any space. It's easy to flip over and hide stains, making it perfect for busy families. They are also easy to clean and come in a wide range of colours and patterns. However, cotton rugs may not be as durable as other types of rugs.


Ideal for: Children's rooms, kitchens, and casual spaces

 

Qualities:

  • Medium Durability
  • Washable/Easy to clean
  • Soft Texture
  • Sustainable
  • Low-Cost

Cowhides

Cowhide rugs are made from the hides of cows that are first preserved and softened at a tannery. They are shaped into a rug, leaving the natural markings and variations of the hide intact. This type of rug material adds a rustic touch to any room and brings a little bit of the Wild West into your living space. They are unique, each with its own pattern and character. 


Ideal for: Low-traffic areas, bedrooms, office spaces, dens

Qualities:

  • High Durability
  • Spot Cleaning
  • Soft Texture
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Medium Cost



There you have it-we've reached the end of this rug-nificent journey! You're now equipped with the knowledge to make the ultimate decision about which rug material will best suit your space. 


From the soft and cozy wool rugs to the rustic and organic jutes, and the luxurious viscose to the affordable synthetic rugs, we've covered them all.


And yes - don't forget about the classic cotton and the Wild West-inspired cowhide rugs, each with its unique pattern and character.


Who knew rugs could be so exciting? Now that you're a rug material expert, it's time to put your knowledge to the test and find the rug that will perfectly complement your space.


Head over and check out our range of rugs that could be the perfect fit for you. Happy rug-hunting!