Sustainability is a key consideration in everything we do. That’s why we guarantee that all of our Indsutville rugs are sourced from organic materials. There are common misconceptions around the procurement of natural rugs, which is why we have prepared this blog to debunk the most prevalent myths surrounding the topic.
Hale Hand Woven Jute Rug - Natural & Cream (Image courtesy of @aflickofpaint)
Myth 1: "Handmade Rugs are Too Expensive"
Although natural rugs will never be a cheap alternative, this is reflected in the higher production costs. The additional cost to procure our weaves organically is represented by the remarkable durability of our rugs, maintaining the same plush feel for years. Subsequently, this generates less waste in your home, with a reduced rug turnover negating the need for wasteful replacements. For refined practices that require additional steps, our production processes prioritise sustainable methods with an emphasis on longevity.
Myth 2: "Rugs Made from Natural Materials Aren't Durable"
Naturally sourced from jute plants, the robust fibres in jute are frequently fashioned into objects with a coarse texture, such as rope and baskets. Although, wool offers a more flexible fabric, with strong resistance to piling and tearing. The natural lanolin produced from sheep gives wool additional water and stain resistant properties. Alternatively, cotton provides a softer finish, withstanding regular wear and tear using breathable properties. The durability of natural materials cannot be underestimated. Our rugs are handweaved by skilled local artisans, creating a tailored impression unique to your finish. The carefully woven threads in our rugs enhance the longevity of our materials, owing to the patient hands gently interweaving the sinews of these gorgeous designs.
Myth 3: "Eco-Friendly Rugs Lack Style and Variety"
Natural rugs come in a myriad of colours and patterns. Organically sourced rugs are still weaved by the same creative minds, with the flexible materials required to really experiment with shapes and sizes. Our rugs also serve as a conversation piece outside of aesthetics, providing a vital reminder that sustainability is both trendy and necessary. We have a host of ranges which celebrate varying shapes and styles, highlighting the remarkable variety offered by our natural rugs.
Hale Hand Woven Jute Rug - Natural & Cream (Image courtesy of @aflickofpaint)
Myth 4: "Hand-Crafted Rugs Require High Maintenance"
On the contrary, natural rugs do in fact carry natural cleaning properties. The natural moisture-resistant properties of Jute make it resistant to spills and condensation. Similarly, the natural oils produced by sheep create a durable layer between the fabric and any potential dirt. Also, the keratin found in wool breaks down bacteria organically, giving wool its' self-cleaning properties. Lastly, cotton is a hydrophilic material, which means it displays remarkable resistance to solvents. This will reduce the overall impact of spills and mitigates frequent cleaning.
Myth 5: "Natural Material Rugs are Not Suitable for All Rooms"
The natural materials of our rugs lend themselves to varying spaces. Find the right rug for the right room with our room-by-room style guide:
Living Room
Large rugs will anchor your front room, creating a cozy feel and adding a sense of scale to the overall design. A perfect alternative to carpets, you can position your rug under a the focal point of your interior, unifying the space for a fluid impression. This natural flow creates an inviting atmosphere, making your room front room a cozy retreat.
Dining Room
Dining rooms maintain the functionality of the kitchen, whilst trying to foster a more inviting ambience. Our fittings add warmth and elegance, making the dining area feel more intimate and sophisticated. Choose durable materials like jute or wool for longevity and style, as they can withstand frequent use and add a touch of natural beauty. Ensure the rug is large enough to accommodate the table and chairs.
Bedroom
Providing comfort and warmth, our rugs make the bedroom a cozy retreat perfect for relaxation. Consider the room size and bed placement to achieve a balanced look, ensuring that the rug complements the overall layout and enhances the space's visual appeal.
Kitchen
Practicality is key here, favouring easy-to-maintain materials like cotton, which is ideal for high-traffic areas. Small rugs add warmth and texture to the room, making the kitchen more comfortable and visually appealing.
Children's Room
Durable, soft materials like jute and cotton are ideal for energetic kids, comfortably sustaining active play. Our errol rugs are perfect for busy spaces, with soft fibres that will gently cushion little feet. You can blend natural tones with the room to produce a more calming space for your kids to relax. Otherwise, choose playful, vibrant designs to create an engaging atmosphere, stimulating imagination and making the room a fun and inviting space for children.
Hallway
Durable rugs in neutral colors make hallways feel wider and more inviting, creating a welcoming entrance to your home. These rugs are designed to endure heavy foot traffic while maintaining a clean and understated look that complements various decor styles.
Home Office
Rugs delineate space and add comfort, making the home office a more pleasant and productive environment. Choose designs that complement the office decor for a cohesive look, ensuring that the rug enhances the overall aesthetic while providing a functional workspace.
Conclusion
By choosing natural rugs weaved by skilled artisans, you're not only enhancing your living spaces with elegance, but also contributing to a more sustainable world for us all. Embrace the beauty and benefits of natural rugs, and transform your home with opulent accessories; stylish and sustainable in equal measure.