What Is Jute Carpet?

History

• It is believed that jute was used in China to make paper as far back as 206 B.C. In ancient Asia, Africa and India, jute was used to make rope and clothing. Jute was processed mechanically starting in Scotland in the 1830s, and jute mills were established elsewhere thereafter.

Manufacture

• Jute is made from the skin of the plant's stem. The fibers are harvested, bundled, soaked and dried in the sun. The fibers are further processed by machines into silky, golden-tan threads and manufactured into diverse products ranging from packaging material to carpet.

Features

• Jute carpet has insulating and antistatic properties and is biodegradable. Its natural color ranges from light golden tan to brown, but it can be mixed with other fibers and successfully dyed a variety of colors. Jute carpet is one of the strongest and softest of all plant fiber carpets.

Considerations

• True jute carpeting is best suited for low traffic areas due to its texture and flexibility. However, when jute is mixed with other fibers, the carpet becomes more durable and can be used throughout the home.

Fun Fact

• Jute is the second-most popular plant fiber, the first being cotton.