RUG MATERIALS
Get to know the characteristics of the different materials used in rugs to choose the most appropriate one depending on its location. In this guide we present the most common types by composition divided into three main groups: natural, synthetic and artificial.
The wool rugs conserve temperature, either in summer or winter and have humidity control properties. They are anti-static, anti-bacterial and anti-allergic. They are used in indoor environments. They are recommended for areas with high to moderate use as their threads have the ability to regain their original shape.
Cotton rugs are resistant to high temperatures and offer a high capacity for moisture absorption, making them ideal for bathrooms. They do not accumulate static electricity and, depending on the size, can be machine washed.
Sisal rugs are very durable, wear-resistant and anti-static. They absorb sound and so are recommended for noisy places. They are not suitable for humid places so it is not advisable to use them outdoors or in bathing areas. They are ideal for indoor areas with high traffic such as hallways and rooms that are used daily.
Rugs made entirely of jute are not very resistant to wear, so they are recommended for areas with little traffic. Their natural shades of beige and brown together with their rough texture make them ideal for rustic style environments. They are not resistant to moisture so they are recommended for dry and indoor locations.
The main characteristic of rugs made with animal skin is their softness. Like wool rugs, they are anti-static, anti-bacterial and wear-resistant.
Polypropylene rugs are resistant to wear and flattening; they do not absorb water and their colours are solid. One of their main features is that they are easy to clean. Due to their resistance, they can be used both indoors and outdoors, as long as the rug base is not made of jute. Of all types of synthetic fibres, polypropylene is the cheapest and therefore one of the most widely used.
Polyamide rugs, also called nylon rugs, are the most resistant of all types of synthetic fibres. In general, the composition of these rugs is usually combined with wool fibres to merge the characteristics of both types of materials.
Polyester rugs combine the characteristics of various types of fibres as they are very resistant and pleasant to the touch. That's why high pile rugs, also called shaggy-style rugs, are usually made of polyester fabric. One of their disadvantages is that they may fade over time and are not resistant to direct heat.
Acrylic rugs look very similar to wool. They are known for their resistance to both light and discolouration. They are long-lasting and do not absorb static electricity. Another of their benefits is that they can be used in high use areas as they recover their shape easily.
Vinyl rugs are very resistant to wear and flattening. As they are not made with a pile, they do not accumulate static electricity. They are anti-bacterial and anti-allergic. They can be used in outdoor areas and kitchens as they do not absorb moisture and are very easy to clean, so they can be used in kitchen areas or where pets are present.
Viscose or rayon rugs are known for being very soft, shiny and bright, and in fact they look similar to silk. These rugs are ideal to give a touch of elegance to surroundings. One of their drawbacks is that they are not suitable for damp places.