Natural Fiber Rugs

All natural fiber rugs are flatwoven and can be reversed. Instead of using wool or cotton, plant-based fibers such as jute, bamboo, coir and sisal are tightly woven together to create a mat or rug. Traditionally these rugs were used outdoors or in entryways, but recently have been used indoors in family rooms and bedrooms to create a casual look and feel. Machine-made versions of these area rugs now incorporate cotton into the weave so they are much softer underfoot. Often natural fibers are bleached or dyes are used to create more decorating options, however, over time most natural fiber rugs darken to their original color.

Natural Fiber Rug	Natural Fiber Rug

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Jute Rugs

Jute rugs originate in India and Bangladesh. These fibers come from the plant stalk instead of the leaves, so the fibers are softer than some other natural fiber rugs, but less durable. Jute rugs more closely resemble wool than the other natural fibers. The natural color of jute is brown.

Jute holds up well under low to medium traffic. High traffic areas include hallways, family room and entryway. Medium traffic areas include the dining room and home office. Low traffic areas include bedrooms and formal living room.

Jute Plant

Seagrass Rugs

Seagrass rugs are very durable and have a latex backing. They have a lot of texture, which adds dimension to an interior. Use this type of rug in an enclosed porch or entryway; however, seagrass rugs cannot be exposed to the elements. The natural shade of seagrass is light brown.

Seagrass

Coir Rugs

Coir rugs are made from the husks of coconuts and have a latex backing. They are an environmentally friendly option. Only discarded coconut husks are used to construct these rugs, so the tree remains intact. Coir rugs are hand-loomed and will have imperfections. These rugs are perfect for screened four-season porches. Coir rugs must use a rug pad to protect the floor beneath.

Coconut Husk

Sisal Rugs

Sisal is the toughest of all natural fibers and works great in high-traffic areas. It is made from the long pointed leaves of the Sisalana plant, which is native to Brazil, Mexico and parts of Africa. Sisal actually absorbs the humidity on hot summer days, which helps to cool a room. Since the fibers are course, it is not ideal for small children or bare feet. Sisal cannot be used outdoors. The natural color of sisal is creamy white. Prolonged exposure to the sun will cause colored-sisal to fade.

Sisal's exceptional durability is suitable for both residential and commercial use. However, after prolong use on a stairway, sisal will become slippery. For that reason, we don't recommend using sisal on stairways.

Sisalana Plant

Bamboo Rugs

Bamboo is fast-growing plant and can be harvested without killing the host plant. There are many benefits to owning a bamboo rug, such as its natural fire resistance, durability and easy care. Bamboo rugs have felt backing to protect the floor from scratches.

Bamboo