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Revealing the Beauty of Natural Rugs: A short guide to Jute, Sisal, Seagrass, Coir and Wool



A thin header image showing leather crafting tools and scraps of leather arranged on a marble work surface


Natural Fibre Rugs have been a popular choice for interior design enthusiasts since homes first needed decorating. They’ve always been available, but because they are today providing an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to synthetic options consumers and designers are returning these timeless materials.


In this guide, I'll delve into the world of natural rugs, exploring the characteristics that make each stand out. Let's unravel the beauty and uniqueness of each material, helping you make an informed decision for your home.



Assorted Materials rolls of sisal, cords of rope, bolts of linen and balls of wool and string


What types of Natural Rug are there?



You can make a natural rug out of most of nature’s resources, whether you should… that’s another thing entirely. You’re looking for a very particular combination of qualities. The end product needs to be strong, flexible and, most importantly, look and feel great!

The kinds we supply at The Natural Rug Company are: Jute, Sisal, Seagrass, Coir and Wool and blends between. Sisool is a blend of Wool and Sisal and we also have a Linen and Wool blend too.



a natural basket sat on top of a sisal rug with leather green borders


What is a Sisal Rug?


Sisal rugs are renowned for their sophisticated and luxurious appearance. Derived from the agave sisalana plant, these rugs boast durability and a textured finish. The natural fibres of sisal rugs make them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas, providing both comfort and style. Hypoallergenic. Eco-Friendly. Sisal is a great choice for a rug material because it is the most versatile and strongest material. There are lots of weave and colour options available. Sisal is the rug that suits any room, there will be an option to match almost any design scheme. Explore our Sisal Range here.



A neatly arranged pair of work gloves sat beside a harvested sisal plant, a half coconut overspilling with wool, some tools and a large spool cord



What is a Seagrass Rug?


Seagrass rugs are crafted from natural seagrass fibres, offering a great deal of braided strength and texture. With a smooth weave and natural sheen, seagrass rugs bring a touch of the natural calm of outdoors inside. Seagrass offers a rustic vibe with an enduring charm. Place in a room where you want to install some botanical beauty as it compliments houseplant adorned spaces perfectly. Explore our Seagrass Range here.



A pair of scissors sat on top of bolts of fabric and a hand-written design for a rug



What is a Jute Rug?


Jute rugs, made from the fibres of the Jute Corchorus plant, are celebrated for their light caramel earthy tones and soft texture. These rugs add warmth to any room and are an eco-conscious choice due to a renewable resource that is sustainably harvested. Jute is the meditative option. It is a material that begs to be interacted with. Jute is perfect for bedrooms and studies, spaces that yearn for a calming influence. Explore our Jute Range here.




A stack of leather journals on top of a jute herringbone rug


What is a Coir Rug?


Coir rugs, derived from coconut husks, are recognised for their durability and natural resilience. These rugs are perfect for entryways and high-moisture areas due to their water-resistant properties. Coir isn’t the softest material, but what it lacks in fluff it more than makes up with the complexity of its texture. To the eye Coir is the epitome of homeliness. Sat on the cool tile of a kitchen floor, a well-placed Coir Rug can offer a spectacular contrast. Explore our Coir Range here.



Yellow, White, Blue and Pink floor tiles beneath a Sisool Sisal and Wool Rug with Cotton Herringbone Border


What is a Wool Rug?



Whilst we’re full of Natural Plant Fibre options, Wool rugs should not be overlooked. They are still a Natural Fibre and there is a reason that Wool has stood the test of time. Wool offers unparalleled comfort and insulation. Wool rugs are a classic choice for various home settings and have the added versatility of being available in dyed striped and patterned weaves. Explore our guide on caring for Wool rugs to ensure they remain a timeless centrepiece in your home. Wool will be a boon during the long winter evenings, underfoot it feels soft and luxurious trapping warm air close. Pairing a wool rug over wool carpet has become a growing trend that helps add texture, contrast and room divisions to help the narrative of any space. And the best choice for a Stair Runner? Wool, naturally. Explore our Wool Range here.


A pair of scissors next to rug samples of coir and sisal with a jute basket and ball of wool


The Best Piece of Advice for Selecting a Natural Rug?


When considering any natural material, the best advice you’ll ever receive is to request samples. The convenience of online shopping, with the peace of mind of handling the bespoke materials is a combination that will ensure you’re confident in your selection.


We have a Bespoke Rug Designer that you can use to build out the perfect combinations and then instantly request those Samples to be delivered straight to your door.

We also have a special introductory pack that we’ve specifically tailored to give you a hands-on experience of the options available.


The pack includes a sample of each material and a few of our border materials. It offers an essential starting point on your journey to find the rug that makes the room.

To order one, simply email us to request one and be sure to include your address.



Conclusion



In the realm of natural rugs, each material brings its own unique charm and characteristics to the table. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of Sisal, the woven wonders of Seagrass, the earthy appeal of Jute, the resilience of Coir, or the timeless comfort of Wool, there's a natural rug to suit every taste and style. Dive into the world of natural rugs and transform your living space with eco-friendly sophistication.




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