Natural fiber rugs have been a popular design element for many years and I think they will continue to be a staple for years to come.  Educating my design clients on the difference between a sisal, jute and seagrass rug is something I do a lot. These rug varieties are somewhat similar in look but there are some distinct differences.

I know many of you probably have some confusion about the difference in these rugs types too, so I wanted to share a little about each style.

JUTE RUGS

Here’s an example of a braided jute loop rug below

Jute is actually a plant grown in India and Bangladesh and the fibers are stripped from the plant’s stalk rather than the leaves.  Once the fibers are stripped, they are spun and prepared for weaving. Jute is actually the same material that burlap is made from  and has similar characteristics to burlap.  One of the other great features of a jute rug is that the fibers can be dyed in different colors which is one of the reasons they are so popular.

 The weave of a jute rug is strong and once woven will have a coarse hand but it is actually softer than sisal.  Because of its performance nature, jute rugs are best for low to medium traffic areas like bedrooms, dining rooms and home offices.  If you’re using a jute rug in a home office, consider what types of moveable furniture that you’ll have on the carpet because they will be difficult to move around on jute.

Keeping your jute rug clean is pretty easy but it is not recommended that you steam clean them since the fibers are very absorbent.

SISAL RUGS

Sisal is a fiber that comes from the Mexican agave plant and is then woven into a yarn-like material which can be left is it’s natural neutral color or dyed.

Sisal is a super strong fiber so these types of rugs are ideal for high traffic areas like hallways, stairs or family rooms. The fiber also pulls moisture and humidity from the air which makes it a great carpet for sunrooms where you want something cool underfoot.

Natural Sisal rugs tend to be very coarse, however a synthetic sisal rug can provide the same look, but will have a softer feel and much better durability.  Pure sisal rugs tend to warp when they get wet, so they can be tough to clean.

The best way to care for a Sisal rug is the vacuum regularly but never use a steam cleaner on a sisal rug.

SEAGRASS RUGS

Seagrass rugs are my favorite amongst all natural fiber rugs.  These rugs are made of twisted seagrass fibers and although they have somewhat of a coarse hand I love the unique look that they have.   Seagrass rugs are khaki and green in color and usually have a twisted fiber as part of the weave.  Like other natural fiber rugs, Seagrass is coarse as well, yet it has more of an oily feel to the touch.  Seagrass rugs do not come in different colors but you can find different weave patterns to choose from.

Natural fiber rugs are an excellent way to bring a solid color and minimal pattern into the room as well as add visual texture.  They are also a great foundation rug when you want to layer something decorative on top.