Many areas of your home will inevitably receive more foot traffic than others. Mudrooms, living rooms or family rooms are often the most popular places to congregate, which is why it’s crucially important to consider the type of rug you would like to use in these parts of your home. Certain rug materials will be able to withstand the wear and tear that comes with heavy use more than others.
If you have children, pets, or frequent houseguests, you will want to keep in mind the durability of the rug you select for your space. Many rug materials, such as silk, simply will not be able to withstand a great deal of foot traffic and will begin to show wear over time. If you’re looking for a rug that can hold its quality in a high traffic area, be sure to select a rug made with one of the following materials:
Wool
Wool is considered one of the most durable materials of all, making wool rugs a popular choice among homeowners. Rugs made from wool are more of an investment than those made with synthetic fibers, but generally, wool rugs tend to last for many years to come.
Another benefit of wool is softness. The high pile and delicate touch of wool underfoot are noticeably different from other materials. These resilient, yet forgiving fibers will repel stains and also keep dirt to a minimum. It is also a material that does not harbor dust mites or encourage bacterial growth, always a plus for those who may suffer allergies or asthma. If you’re looking for a rug that luxurious but will hold up in a high traffic area, go with wool.
Try this beautiful navy rug from Himalayan by Safavieh, which showcases a rich, textural pile and an elegant pattern sure to suit any living, dining or family room.
Nylon
The brilliant, bright colors that are showcased in many nylon rugs are often a major draw for homeowners. Nylon is a material that absorbs color well and is also highly resilient to dirt and other natural elements. A nylon rug is a good choice for pet owners or those with small children prone to spills. It is also a very soft material, which is ideal for children who may be crawling or playing on the floor.
Nylon could almost be considered indestructible not only because it is extremely durable, but also because it is easy to clean. Originally, nylon rugs were created to mimic the look of silk rugs, but with the added benefit of low maintenance. Go with a nylon rug if you’re looking for a high-quality rug that won’t bust your budget.
The Vintage Shafer from Giza by NuLoom would make a fun, bold statement in your home that will also withstand heavy use.
Polypropylene
Possibly considered the most durable material, polypropylene offers both stain and mildew resistance. Since it is also easy to clean, polypropylene rugs are a popular choice for indoor/outdoor spaces. This kind of rug can be used outside by the pool or in any room inside your home, especially in high-traffic areas. Another perk of polypropylene is that it will hold its color well and won’t fade in the sun.
Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber that will hold up after heavy use and is also easy to manufacture, making most polypropylene rugs very affordable. These rugs can also be surprisingly soft to the touch and are completely non-toxic, meaning they are safe to use in your home if you have pets.
Exhibiting a beautiful geometric motif, this polypropylene rug from the Rafetus collection by Surya would make a great option in an entryway or outdoor porch, especially in a mid-century modern home.
Cotton
Although not quite as durable as polypropylene or nylon, cotton is still considered an excellent choice for high-traffic areas of your home because it is easy to clean. In particular, if a rug is flat woven, it will have a low pile that won’t need to be steam-cleaned – simply toss it in the washing machine at home. Some rugs can even be air-dried outdoors, which will naturally kill bacteria.
Cotton rugs are very versatile because they are made in a variety of colors, sizes, and pile heights. Functional yet stylish, cotton rugs will serve the purpose of a long-lasting, comfortable rug, but aren’t generally passed down through generations like many wool rugs often are. Nonetheless, cotton rugs make an excellent choice because of their softness, durability, and style.
Try the Cannes Chindi Rug from Madison by NuLoom, which is 100% cotton and comes in two different color options.
Natural Fiber
Last but not least, a natural fiber rug made with materials like jute or sisal is a very good option for the high-traffic areas of your home. These tough fibers are spun together into weaves or braids that add aesthetic appeal and also contribute to a rug’s durability. One drawback, though, is that natural fiber rugs can feel rough to the touch. While they aren’t the kind of rug your feet will sink into, the benefits may outweigh the drawbacks if you’re looking for a highly durable rug.
Although these rugs do tend to stain fairly easily, natural fiber rugs are made with materials that are renewable and biodegradable. As a very eco-friendly choice, natural fiber rugs are also able to be used as a base when layering with other rugs.
This handwoven jute rug by Safavieh exhibits sublime, natural colors that allow it to blend in with nearly any color palette.
