Cotton

Cotton is the most trusted and commonly used fabric. It comes from a fluffy, plant-based fiber that grows around the seeds of the cotton plant.

It is used in flatweaves like dhurries and kilims, making it a flexible choice of décor that can be used and stored easily. Cotton breathes, is washable and can be used either indoor or outdoor.

Why Choose Cotton?

• Cotton is easy to wash – either in washing machines or by hand.
• Rugs woven from cotton are cost-effective.
• Cotton takes color very well so rugs can be bolder and brighter.

Other Considerations

• Cotton is a lighter fiber than other natural alternatives so doesn’t produce very plush rugs.
• Rugs woven from cotton are also not as durable as those woven from other natural fibers.
• Cotton is not as stain resistant as wool.
• Cotton is a less effective insulator than other fibers.

Other Plant-based Fibers

Plant-based fibers are highly versatile and can easily work with any number of styles and décor schemes.

The term refers to a variety of materials, each derived from a different source: Linen - Flax, Sisal - Agave, Sea grass - Marsh plants, Coir - Coconut husks, Abaca - Banana plants.

Why Choose Plant-Based Fibers?

• They provide a neutral background to both contemporary and traditional décor schemes.
• Strong and durable materials, especially sisal and abaca.
• Eco-friendly production methods mean the production of natural rugs is more sustainable.
• Naturally textured and lend themselves to woven patterns.
• They can be cleaned by simply shaking the dirt out.

Other Considerations

• Naturals are coarser than other fibers and can feel rough underfoot.
• Natural fibers are not as stain resistant as wool and synthetics.
• Natural fibers are not suited to damp environments as they absorb moisture.
• With daily exposure to direct sunlight, natural fibers may fade or darken.

Polyester

Polyester is a man-made fiber that is exceptionally stain and fade resistant, but still soft and affordable. While not quite as durable as other synthetics like nylon, polyester rugs will still wear well if properly constructed.

Their relatively lower cost and stain resistance means that they are a good choice for children’s bedrooms and areas where owners may not want to invest in a more expensive option.

Why Choose Polyester?

• Soft finish with exceptional resistance.
• Good performance with long-term wear.
• Some polyester can be made with recycled content for sustainability.
• Great value.

Other Considerations

• With use, polyester rugs are prone to matting, so proper care is needed.
• These fibers are less resilient than wool, so they will crush more easily under furniture and foot traffic.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene, also known as olefin, is a man-made fiber used extensively in home décor.

While it is often seen as simply a cost-effective alternative to natural fibers, it also offers unique advantages like fade and stain resistance. Because of this, Polypropylene fibers work well in rooms like kitchens, children’s rooms, indoor/outdoor rooms and basements.

Why Choose Polypropylene?

• Quick turnaround time and inexpensive to produce.
• Similar look and feel to natural fibers at a lower cost.
• Durable and easy to clean.
• Can be treated to be stain-resistant.
• Good for people who are allergic to wool but want a similar look.
• Resistant to bleaching and sunlight fading.
• Excellent value.
• Good Performance.

Other Considerations

• Synthetics are shinier and slicker than true wool.
• Polypropylene is not always easy to dye so color options may be limited.