Natural Fibre Rugs
Jute & sisal rugs are perfect for creating a rustic look in your home. Often considered the same, there are a few similarities but also some important differences to note. Read on to learn more about these natural fibre rugs and decide which style will work best for your home.
What is Sisal?
Sisal is a stiff and durable natural fibre that comes from the tropical Agave Sisalana plant. Native to Mexico, it is now widely produced throughout Africa and Brazil. The plant leaves are first cut and crushed, then left to dry out in the sun. For the final step, they are spun to create the fibre used for the rugs.
Sustainable and eco-friendly, sisal rugs offer excellent durability. For this reason, they are often used in high-traffic areas of the home, such as hallways and kitchens. A relatively stiff fibre, sisal has a rough feel underfoot.
What is Jute?
Jute is a natural fibre that is made from jute grass. Most commonly produced in Asia, it has been used to create rugs for many, many years. The fine fibres make jute rugs softer to the touch than sisal. Their natural earthy tone is great for adding an organic feel to living spaces. Easy to shape due to the thin and flexible fibres, you’ll often see jute rugs in round or floral designs.
Are Jute and Sisal rugs durable?
Jute and sisal rugs are both very durable. Sisal, however, is slightly more hardwearing than jute. For this reason, we recommend using jute in low to medium traffic areas of the home, such as living rooms and bedrooms. Practical and sturdy, sisal is an excellent choice for hallways, kitchens and mudrooms. Both rugs, when cared for properly, will withstand the test of time.
How do I clean a Jute or Sisal Rug?
Dry dirt can be easily removed from these natural fibre rugs. Vacuum regularly, ensuring you do not use a beater bar. Is your rug easy to move? Try shaking it outdoors to remove trapped dirt quickly.
Naturally absorbent, jute and sisal rugs do not respond well to liquid spills. If you do spill something, blot the stain immediately with a clean, dry cloth before it sets in.
Can I use my Sisal or Jute rug outdoors?
While the rustic style of natural fibre rugs looks great styled on your deck or patio, they must only be used in dry conditions. Due to the absorbent nature of the fibres, rain will damage your rug beyond repair. Because of this, we recommend only using your natural fibre rugs indoors. We have a wide range of weatherproof rugs that are specially designed for outdoor use. These are a much better option for gardens.
Are natural fibre rugs soft?
The softness of your rug varies depending on the fibre it is made from. Sisal rugs have a rough, stiff feel, which may not be the most pleasant underfoot. Jute rugs, on the other hand, have a much softer finish. For this reason, we recommend choosing jute over sisal for living rooms and bedrooms. Slightly less durable, they are more comfortable for walking or sitting on. The earthy texture of both materials will give a relaxed vibe to your interior.
Where can I place a Sisal rug?
Sisal rugs are best used in high-traffic areas of the home. Perfect for hallways and kitchen areas, it’s important to remember that they should not get wet. Because of this, we don’t recommend placing your sisal rug too near the sink or in the bathroom.
Easy to brush off crumbs and dry dirt, a popular placement is underneath the dining table. Our bordered sisal rugs come in a range of colourways, perfect for tieing in with your decor.
Where can I place a Jute Rug?
Jute rugs are best suited to low to medium traffic areas. Softer than sisal, they are slightly less hard-wearing. Create a warm and welcoming feel in your living room or bedroom by adding one of our natural jute rugs.
If you have any questions about our natural fibre rugs, contact our rug experts for more help. Our full range of jute and sisal rugs is available online and certain items can be purchased in our rug shop in Cork, Ireland. Remember delivery throughout Ireland is free on orders over €50.
Thanks for reading, we hope you’ve found this article useful. For more helpful rug advice, head over to our Youtube channel!