A rug is an essential house decor item because it makes your room cozy and comfortable while walking barefoot around the house. They insulate the floor and make it warm, mainly if the floor is out of tiles. Rugs provide a non-slip surface for you, and in addition, objects that fall on the rugged surface are likely not to break.
Each area in the house uses a different type of rug. The color, shape, and material vary from one area of the house to another. Therefore, when choosing rugs for your home, ensure they match the place they are to be placed. Plastic rugs are best used outdoors in the veranda and the bathroom.
This is because they are easier to dry and clean when in contact with water or dirt. Woolen and silk rugs should be used in the sitting room and bedroom because of their warm, soft texture, while bamboo, synthetic, and cotton rug are ideal for use in the kitchen, hallways, and other major traffic areas in the house because they are easy to clean and are non-slip.
Types of materials used in making rugs
Different materials make rugs, and they vary in shapes, sizes, and colors. Here are some of the various materials that used in producing rugs.
Bamboo
Bamboo rugs are made naturally from the bamboo plant. They are easy to clean, and since they are electron resistant, durable, and long-lasting, you can use them in all areas of the house. Bamboo area rug products come in all shapes, colors, and patterns. Although, they can fade If left outdoors for long periods, and this weakens its fibers.
Wool
Wool is the most commonly used material for rugs. Its soft texture makes your feet comfortable and warm. Because of this, you should not use them in damp areas because they will absorb humidity.
Silk
Silk rugs are finer than wool. This feature makes them more comfortable and loved more as they are soft with a subtle sheen. They are best in the living room or the bedroom. In most cases, they require professional cleaning as they are delicate to handle.
Synthetics
These are artificial fibers that include polypropylene, viscose, and nylon. This material is easy to clean. Therefore they are suitable in damp areas like the bathroom. You can use them in outdoor spaces as well as in the hallway and high-traffic areas around the house.
Cotton
Cotton, on the other hand, is used by many because of its availability. It is more affordable than silk and wool. It is also effortless to clean and dries up pretty fast when spread under direct sun. You can use it in any part of your home, such as the kitchen, children’s rooms, and casual spaces in the house like the balcony.
Animal skin rugs
These types of rugs are available as complete hides, stitched panels of woven strips. They are soft, durable, and comfortable under your feet. They should, however, not be used in damp areas as they absorb moisture. They are perfect for use in the bedroom, office, and low traffic areas in the house.
Rug materials to avoid
Not all rug materials are ideal. Therefore, you should be on the lookout for these types of materials while purchasing a rug.
- Artificial silk, acrylic, imitation silk, or viscose- They may feel and appear beautiful, but they are not the best materials for rugs.
- Avoid dead wool that is wool from unhealthy or dead animals. They are dry and hard, thus uncomfortable for use. Wool from healthy animals are soft and remain intact because of the natural animal oil.
- Polyester rugs are synthetic and cheap, but they deteriorate fast.
- You should avoid sisal, seagrass, and jute because of their rugged nature.
In conclusion, how often you clean and replace your rugs will depend on the activities in the particular area. To avoid allergies or any other health conditions caused by poor aeration, you should regularly clean or vacuum your rugs. Clean rugs bring out a healthy environment in the house.