What Material for a High-Traffic Area Rug?

Wool

• Though pricier than other options, wool offers unparalleled longevity. In high-traffic spots, wool simply sheds worn fibers, revealing new fiber cells. Because the dye permeates each fiber, wool rugs look fresh even with wear and tear. Its soft, luxurious appearance and natural stain resistance make wool ideal for any room. Offering maximum durability, wool rugs serve as heirloom pieces. Use caution when placing wool in bright sunlight, as the fabric could yellow over time.

Nylon

• Like wool, nylon feels soft to the touch and defies stains. The synthetic fiber holds its color and resists mildew and abrasions. Because the bulky fibers don't matte easily, you can place heavy furniture on top of a nylon area rug. Even in sunny spots, the fabric won't fade. Choose nylon instead of wool if you need a budget-friendly option.

Sisal

• As an eco-friendly, natural fiber, sisal gives any room an organic touch. Harvested by hand, sisal consists of cactus plant fibers. Manufacturers often use the material to make rope and twine. Though the fabric isn't soft underfoot, woven sisal rugs offer more strength and durability than other plant-based options. The coarse texture stands up under heavy traffic, but avoid using sisal rugs in damp areas, as water rings may appear. Blot up liquid spills with a dry cloth and use dry-cleaning methods when stains appear.

Sea Grass

• Sea grass offers a lower price tag than sisal yet imparts the same kind of natural vibe. The material resists stains and abrasions and repels pet hair. As its name implies, sea grass grows in seabeds, which makes the material compatible with water. Sea grass rugs start out with a slight greenish tinge, but the color eventually fades to khaki. Used in both casual and elegant spaces, sea grass works well in foyers, hallways and living rooms. Any stains that appear tend to fade and dissipate into the material.