Natural Selection Rugs – A Staple of Home Decor
Sisal and other natural-fiber rugs have evolved from beach-house flooring to that of being a staple in home decor. Sisal Rugs have become the jeans of home decor. You can dress them up, dress them down and layer them. And they are affordable! There are other natural fiber rugs like sea grass, jute, hemp and coir that are being used throughout the home. Here are some quick pros and cons to determine the right fiber for you.
Sisal (From agave cactus plant)
Pros: Probably the strongest of the natural fibers. Classic look. Good for high traffic areas, especially stairs.
Cons: A little scratchy for bedrooms. Stairs should be cleaned immediately to avoid discoloration. Cats might claw it.
Sea Grass (Tropical Grass)
Pros: More forgiving of stains. Stills dry quickly. Sheds least of all. Attractive matte finish. Some pet owners say getting stains out of sea grass is easier than from sisal.
Cons: Not great for stairs or damp areas.
Jute (Vegetable Fiber)
Pros: Often the most in-expensive choice. Gives a chunky look and adds texture. Softer feel. Good for medium-traffic areas.
Cons: Sheds. Not good for rooms where kids roll around on the floor. Has a tendency to fall apart with heavy use because it is loosely woven.
Hemp (Mountain Grass)
Pros: Its natural taupe color is a very hot neutral right now in design magazines and blogs. Minimal shedding.
Cons: Because it’s still mostly hand-woven and not widely available, prices tend to be higher than those of other natural fibers.
Coir (From Coconut Husks)
Pros: Functions well as a doormat in covered areas because it’s abrasive and mildew-resistant. Good for entrance halls.
Cons: Not great for family rooms or bedrooms because the coarseness that cleans the bottom of shoes would be painful on bare feet.
Source: Washington Post – Star Tribune
