Area rugs are a smart way to protect your floors, soften your interior environment, and elevate your home décor. If you are like many people, you not only want an attractive rug, you want one that is durable and long-lasting. This is especially true if you have children or pets. Rugs are made of a myriad of materials, some more durable than others. Here are five classic materials for area rugs that have stood the test of time.

1. Cotton

Cotton is a natural fiber that is available throughout most of the world. The cellulose fibers are soft, lustrous, and sturdy. There is a reason we have been using cotton in textiles for thousands of years. The fibers take well to natural and synthetic dyes and can be woven into many colorful designs. While cotton isn’t as durable as some other rug materials, it is easy to maintain. Regular vacuuming and quick blotting up of spills are recommended. Smaller cotton area rugs can be tossed in a washing machine for a thorough cleaning every so often.

2. Jute

Jute is a natural plant fiber that is derived from the stalks of the jute plant. It is readily available because it grows rapidly, making it a renewable resource. It is also sustainable due to its biodegradability. Jute weaves and braids tightly, which gives it strength. Care is easy with blotting up spills and periodic vacuuming.

3. Nylon

Nylon is a synthetic polymer rug material known for functionality and durability. These rugs are versatile and available in an endless array of colors and patterns. We like nylon for high-traffic areas due to the tensile strength of the fibers. A benefit of nylon is that it is resistant to degradation, insects, mold, and damage from UV rays. Nylon is non-allergenic like some natural fibers can be. Nylon is easy to maintain with routine vacuuming and budget-friendly.

4. Sisal

When you think of sisal, beach houses and sunrooms come to mind. While this natural plant material comes from an agave cactus plant, it evokes more of a seashore vibe than that of a dessert. Fittingly, sisal is naturally sandy in color. This fiber is extremely strong and dimensionally stable. As you can imagine, sisal fibers don’t have a soft feel but it does have an organic look and appeal. Sisal is also a good choice because it is affordable and practical.

5. Wool

Wool is one of the more durable area rug materials. This natural material comes from different furry animals, such as sheep, goats, and alpacas. This furry coat protects the animal from the cold and moisture, but it is naturally shed and will regrow. These gracious animals are sheared seasonally, and we reap the benefits without any harm to them. Wool contains lanolin, which is naturally stain-resistant. It is easy to keep clean with regular vacuuming. Wool is also fire-resistant. It is strong, yet it is softer than some of the other natural fibers.

Two of our most popular wool rugs are Surya and Loloi. Surya wool rugs are handcrafted from a combination of wool, viscose, and silk. They are available in a variety of colors and designs. These rugs are comfortable underfoot and great for high-traffic areas. Loloi wool rugs are meticulously woven by hand in India. These offer just the right amount of color with intricate and distinctive designs.

Browse Our Selection of Fine and Durable Area Rugs

One of the best ways to protect your floors without covering them entirely is by strategically placing area rugs in spaces where you gather and entertain. At Payless Rugs, we have a wide variety of area rugs to compliment any style and add warmth and comfort to your home or office space. Browse our website or contact us to find out more about our offerings.