Synthetic Rugs Vs. Wool Rugs

Texture and Feel

• Wool is soft. The texture of synthetics varies; nylon can be soft or coarse, olefin is waxy, and polyester is soft with a woollike appearance.

Durability and Resiliency

• Wool is strong and resilient. Nylon, olefin and polyester are durable, but olefin easily crushes and polyester mats quickly.

Color

• Nylon and polyester are available in rich colors. Olefin is usually in muted shades. Wool ranges from off-white to black to earth tones.

Cost

• According to the WFCA, "wool is the most expensive carpet fiber," making it a more popular choice for area rugs. Nylon is the most expensive and best performing synthetic, while olefin offers the best value.

Stain Removal

• Clean spills quickly by blotting the liquid with a clean, white cotton or paper towel until the area is almost dry, then mist the stain with a water and dishwashing liquid solution and continue blotting. Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook recommends 1/4 tsp. of dishwashing liquid per quart.

Deep Cleaning

• Synthetic carpets and rugs can be deep cleaned by shampooing and hot-water-extraction with machines available from rental companies. To minimize the amount of water left in wool carpet and rugs, professional cleaning is recommended.