One of the most common questions I hear is “What fiber should my rug be made of?” There are a lot of choices, both natural and synthetic.
Here are a few professional insights into how the different fibers perform.
Wool
One of the strongest, longest-lasting fibers, wool is the component fiber of most well-made hand-knotted rugs. With proper care and maintenance, a wool rug can last generations. However, being a natural fiber it is easier to stain permanently since strong oxidizing or reducing stain removers cannot be used on it without damaging the fiber.
Silk
Another natural fiber, prized for its sheen and luster, silk is better suited to wall hangings or rugs that will be laid in little-used areas. While beautiful, it is not as strong or durable as wool and is even more susceptible to staining.
Rayon
Also known as Viscose, rayon is technically man-made but is actually a natural fiber that is made from regenerated wood pulp. It has a silky feel, and will often be sold as silk to unsuspecting customers, or used as an accent fiber in newer low-end Tibetan and Nepali rugs. However, it is comparatively weak and does not wear well nor retain its luster as silk does, and when used as an accent it will wear out faster than the rest of the rug.
Nylon
The strongest and longest lasting of the synthetic fiber, its only drawback lies in its susceptibility damage from acid-dye stains and bleach; look for solution-dyed fibers to lessen these worries. It wears and cleans well, returning to a near-new condition if not allowed to become exceptionally soiled between cleanings.
Polyester
Used in many recycled-plastic rugs, looks great when new and is very soft. However, it lacks good wear characteristics, easily becoming matted and tangled. Oily stains can be problematic to remove if left for long periods.
Polypropylene
Also known as Olefin, this fiber is quite often used in low-end rugs. It has the advantage of being cheap and nearly impervious to bleach and dye stains. It is quite lustrous when new, but abrades and loses luster very quickly, and is also very susceptible to oily stains or soiling. Since it is made from asphalt by-products, oils will permanently bond to it if not cleaned up quickly.