An area rug is a carpet that only covers part of the floor, but they are not just decorative. They also help with sound reduction, keeping dirt from spreading around your house, and they provide an extra layer between your feet and cold flooring surfaces like wood or tile. This article will discuss some of the different materials area rugs can be made of, and how they may help or hinder your lifestyle.

Wool Area Rug

Wool area rug

The Laycie, wool, area rug by Signature Design by Ashley.

Wool area rugs are some of the most common area rugs, and they come in a variety of colors. They have beautiful designs woven right into them to enhance their beauty. If you want an area rug that will last for years to come, wool is one of your best options. Wool area rugs also tend to be very comfortable underfoot because they are so thick.

Cotton Area Rug

Jame 5' x 7' Rug

The Jame, cotton, area rug by Signature Design by Ashley. Made from cotton and handwoven. 

Cotton area rugs are, as you may have guessed from the name, made out of cotton. This makes them perfect for adding a natural look to your home. Cotton area rugs also tend to be very soft and comfy underfoot because they absorb moisture easily. They are not as durable as wool area rugs, but they are still a great area rug choice if you're looking for something that will add warmth to your home.

Silk Area Rug

Silk area rugs come in some beautiful colors and designs, and is very soft underfoot, but can be expensive. The delicate material of silk area rugs is one reason why they can be so expensive- and another reason is that they tend to only last for a few years. If you live in a high-traffic home and don't want footprints to become part of your rug's design, then silk may not be for you.

Sisal Area Rug

Sisal rug

Monacco sisal area rug, featuring wool fibers made by Dalyn.

Sisal area rugs are made out of fiber from the agave plant. This makes them very durable, and resistant to stains! If you have a large area rug that needs to be cleaned, sisal may be the best material for you. Sisal area rugs come in natural colors and it is very easy to clean them by simply vacuuming or sweeping them off with a broom.

Jute Area Rug

Jute area rugs can be a great choice if you want an area rug that is eco-friendly. They are also less durable than sisal, but their fibers are much smoother. If you want an area rug that will make your home seem rustic and earthy, jute area rugs are a perfect choice.

Animal Area Rug

Large cowhide rugs

A cowhide rug, layered on top of another rug in The Furniture Mall of Texas.

Animal area rugs include area rugs made out of animal skin, like cowhide and sheepskin. These area rugs may seem like a good idea at first because they are so unique and stylish, but you should know that they can be very expensive. There is also the possibility that an animal area rug will shed or damage your flooring by leaving little bits of animal hair behind. If you want a rustic area rug that is a conversation topic, however, then animal area rugs may be a perfect fit. 

Synthetic Area Rug

Synthetic area rugs are area rugs that are made out of synthetic materials, like nylon or polypropylene. These area rugs tend to be less expensive than other area rug options and they come in a variety of colors. By mimicking the feel of natural fibers, synthetic area rugs are family-friendly and can be perfect for high-traffic homes.

Gray fluffy rug

Paulick area rug, made from polyester. By Signature Design by Ashley.

There is no doubt about it: area rugs can make a huge difference in your home. They are comfortable to step on, they can add color and life to any area of your home. Area rugs are great to have in your home, but you should always consider what area rug material will fit best with the rest of your decor before making any purchases. At The Furniture Mall in the Topeka, Olathe, and Austin area, we have area rugs made from different materials to suit your household's needs.

 

Written by Emily Holleran