When buying an area rug there are many things to consider and learn, unfortunately; most buyers shop first and ask questions later. In fact, color, style, size, and price are the most popular ways buyers shop for rugs, which is fine and usually leads to a satisfactory purchase. Indeed, most rug buyers are looking to fulfill a very specific design goal and consequently focus on aesthetics. While I do not want to discourage design driven shopping or impulse buying (after all, we do sell rugs) I have a secret to tell: Rug Fiber Matters!

This article will examine the issue of area rug fiber with the intent of educating buyers and helping them make a more informed purchase. Part I will explain why fiber is such an important issue when buying a new rug. Part II will introduce the most commonly used natural fibers; wool, cotton, and silk. Part III will discuss the popularity and virtues of eco-friendly rugs and Part IV will arguer that synthetic area rugs may be the best choice for some rug buyers.


Rug fiber is extremely important. The fibers used to weave a rug will determine its quality, durability, price, and ultimately, its longevity and value. On a less important note, it can also help make a design impact and even a life-style statement. Traditionally, area rugs have been woven with natural fibers; wool, silk, or cotton. Wool is the most common rug fiber used in weaving due to its many advantageous qualities discussed in detail below. Today, however, there are more fibers used in rug weaving than ever before. While this is great for selection and has made rugs available at lower price points it can also be confusing for buyers. In short, there is more information to learn now and to be aware of when shopping for a rug.

A very important point is that quality varies among fiber groups, so the particular class and origin of the fiber is also important. For example, an area rug made from live Persian wool will feel and look differently than a rug woven from dead wool or even from fine New Zealand wool. This is one reason there is such a variation in rug prices — it also explains how two rugs of the same size and woven the same way could be separated by price so obviously. This point also highlights the importance of educating yourself before you buy a new rug. Indeed, when it comes to fiber, the devil is in the details. An unscrupulous rug seller can easily market a rug as something it is not without telling an overt lie.


Area rugs have traditionally been woven from natural fibers. While this should not come as a surprise it is worth noting because these fibers have such an important place in rug making. Would we have the beautiful weaving traditions and epic rug styles we are so accustomed to if fine wool was not available in Persia or if silk was not abundant in Asia? Surely, area rugs would look very different as would the complexion of the rug industry. The point is that rug history starts with the availability of these fibers. Specifically, cotton, silk, and wool each offer benefits in rug making and tend to be favored by particular weavers and rug owners.

Cotton Rugs

Cotton offers numerous advantages in natural rug weaving, especially for individuals with an allergy to wool. Cotton is a very soft yet durable fiber, which makes it suitable for area rugs. Of course, cotton takes to dies very well so cotton rugs are available in every color imaginable. Cotton rugs are also fairly easy to maintain and clean. Generally, stains are easily removable. 
100% Cotton rugs are historically tied to colonial America and braided rugs. Still popular in that style they are also commonly used in rug hooking. Even when not used throughout a rug cotton is frequently used as the foundation or backing of a wool rug.

Silk Rugs

Silk has been used in area rug weaving for centuries. It was the preferred fiber among Chinese weavers for various reasons including China’s unsurpassed silk production and their keen skills in silk weaving. Silk makes beautiful rugs that are very durable. Natural silk is very strong and can exceed the strength of nylon.
It is important to note that both natural and artificial silk are used to make area rugs and there is a marketable difference between the two in terms of quality. Evaluating the difference can be very challenging for a buyer though. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you are not sure. Beyond asking questions, use common sense and trust your instincts. Moreover, listen when money talks. Natural silk rugs are expensive, if you see one priced like a synthetic version heed caution.

Wool Rugs

Wool is the most commonly used fiber and makes the most sought after rugs. Wool is an extremely durable and versatile and is perfect for weaving area rugs. Wool responds very well to dyes and is easily spun into yarn. Moreover, wool area rugs withstand high-traffic areas and the test of time. The reason for this is that wool is naturally resilient to matting and crushing. Wool produces gorgeous rugs that provide the added benefit of being heat and sound insulation. It is also flame and heat retardant. Likewise, it is naturally resilient to dirt and soil so it cleans easily.  With proper care, a fine wool rug can last for generations.
When shopping for a wool rug, pay attention to the quality of the wool. Make sure it was sheared from a live animal. Wool harvested off a slaughtered animal is inferior and will not be as durable or vibrant. As for the source of the product, Persian wool is the best. New Zealand wool is also excellent. The best shopping practice is to ask questions if the information you desire is lacking.


Eco Rugs are a popular decor item as people become more conscious of their ecological impact. While being “green” mindful and increasing one’s environmental awareness is certainly a productive attitude and a welcomed trend, area rugs have long been Eco-friendly. Specifically, wool rugs, the most commonly used rug fiber, are made from a renewable resource and are 100% biodegradable. For whatever reason, however, cotton, silk, and wool rugs are routinely omitted for the Eco rug conversation.

The fact of the matter is that when most people discuss Eco-rugs they are referring to bamboo, jute, sisal, and sea grass. In truth, these rugs are not new products either. These fibers have been used for centuries in Asian area rugs.

Bamboo Rugs

Bamboo is the most popular of these fibers since it is abundant, very strong, versatile, and beautiful with a low environmental impact. Essentially, bamboo is fast growing grass, which makes it rapidly renewable.  Bamboo rugs are available in a variety of colors, styles, patterns, and sizes. Moreover, they are an especially attractive option because they are hypoallergenic and easy to clean and maintain.

 Jute Rugs

Jute is a long, soft, shiny vegetable fiber that can be spun into strong threads. It is actually softer than cotton, making it the softest of all natural fibers. Burlap is a familiar example of a jute fabric. It is environmentally positive because it grows with little need of fertilizer or pesticides. It also grows easily making it renewable and is 100% bio-degradable and recyclable.  Jute is a good rug making fiber because it is high in fiber strength, can be blended with other fibers, and takes dyes well.  

Sea grass Rugs

As it name suggests seagrass is harvested from the ocean. It is another abundant renewable resource. It has think, flat, and smooth fibers that are easy to weave. They too are very durable. Seagrass provides a great Eco rug option for those looking for a natural look and affordable price points.
 

Sisal Rugs

Sisal offers another Eco rug choice with unique texture and many benefits. It is harvested from the lengthy leaves of sisal plants. To weave a sisal Eco rug the weaver must crush the leaves and scrape a green pulp away to access the fibers. The fibers are then dried and made ready for weaving. Sisal fiber is valued for its strength and durability. Interestingly, it has a coarse feel, which is a unique and welcomed option in area rug texture. An added benefit to these rugs is that they a naturally antistatic and never trap dust.


 
Today, synthetic area rugs out sell rugs made with natural fibers. The reason for this is price. As a general rule, synthetic area rugs are less expensive. However, they offer additional benefits beyond lower prices. Specifically, they often have a greater color range and stain guards. Manufactures of synthetic rugs have also done an amazing job in developing fibers that emulate the look, feel, and quality of the finest natural rug fibers. If you have not seen a synthetic area rug recently, take a look and feel at one – you will be amazed by their quality. Like natural rugs, there is great variation in the quality of synthetic rug fibers. Many top manufactures have even patented specific brands of synthetic polypropylene rug fibers. The point is that not all synthetic rugs are equal and you will usually get what you pay for.
 
We particularly recommend Synthetic area rugs for first time rug buyers. They match the look and comfort of any rug.  They also make redecorating with rugs feasible since they are less expensive. Pragmatically speaking, synthetic rugs may be a better fit for your lifestyle and allow you to be more relaxed with your purchase. Having the finest wool rug is wonderful; however, if you are obsessed with worry about spills you will not enjoy its beauty. In other words, avoid buying a rug that might own you – no matter its impressive value it won’t be worth it.