Rugs Information

Natural fiber rugs are a popular option in interior design. In their natural state, a natural fiber rug can offer a warm to a room that cannot be accomplished solely by wood floors. Natural fiber rugs are also considered environmentally responsible and some types of natural fiber rugs can be used outdoors.
By using natural fiber rugs instead of wall to wall carpeting, you can easily replace your floor covering as your tastes change. Natural fiber rugs are often found in the unaltered color of the fibers, but sisal, jute, and hemp rugs can be dyed to almost any color. Adding a natural fiber rug to your floor can also absorb noise.
A natural fiber rug can also protect a new wood floor from excessive use. If you have delicate flooring throughout your house, consider putting a large natural fiber rug in your entryway or mudroom to protect the flooring. A coir fiber rug is incredibly durable and resistant to moisture that is often found in entryways.
Natural fiber rugs are championed by environmentalists because of their low embodied energy and their renewable resource status. Although wool rugs can also be considered a renewable resource, the resources required to feed a sheep to produce wool is far greater than the resources required to grow natural fibers. Most natural fiber rugs will also decompose more quickly than other options. Also most natural fiber rugs are produced using few chemicals. The natural fibers used are often from hardy plants that require little more than basic care.
Depending on the natural fiber rug you choose, the rug can be terribly sensitive to moisture or excessive sunlight. Jute rugs, for example, should never be put in direct sun. They are also sensitive to water and can water spot if spills are not wiped up immediately. Seagrass rugs, however, are incredibly stain resistant, but should not be exposed to a lot of moisture over time. Natural fiber rugs made of coir are perhaps the most durable type of natural fiber rug. Coir fibers are resistant to both water, sunlight, and insect damage, making it an attractive option for outdoor use.
No matter what natural fiber rug you choose, you can keep it looking great through regular maintenance. Before buying a rug, ask if there are any treatments that can be applied to your rug to protect it. Then the best form of regular maintenance is weekly vacuuming. If you find that one area of your natural fiber rug is receiving more use, rotate the rug after you vacuum.
Properly cared for, a natural fiber rug can easily last over ten years. Not all natural fiber rugs are created equal: many have qualities that make them unsuitable for different areas in your home. Think not only about wear issues, but safety issues. Sisal rugs, for example, can be very slippery, making them a bad option for the stairs. Take your time to research the many types of natural fiber rugs to choose the best option for your home.

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