Rugology

Selecting the right rug involves understanding various factors, including the fiber types, durability, and suitability for your specific needs. From plush and luxurious bedroom rugs to durable and stain-resistant living room options, there's a perfect rug for every space.

Key Factors to Consider:

  • Usage Area: High-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms require more durable rugs compared to bedrooms.
  • Pets and Children: Homes with pets and children need stain-resistant and matting-resistant rugs.
  • Fiber Characteristics: Each fiber type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Consider factors like stain resistance, durability, and comfort.

Understanding Rug Terminology:

When shopping for rugs, you'll encounter several terms that describe their features and durability. Here are some key terms to understand:

  • Face Weight: Refers to the amount of fiber per square yard. While a higher face weight might seem like an indicator of durability, it's not the sole factor.
  • Density: Calculated from the face weight and pile height, indicating how tightly packed the fibers are, which affects performance.
  • Fiber Twist: The number of twists in an inch of fiber. A higher twist rate means better durability and resistance to matting.

Types of Rug Fibers:

  • Olefin (Polypropylene): An inexpensive fiber often used in rugs. It's usually solution-dyed, making it colorfast, but it has low resistance to friction and a low melting point, which can be a drawback in high-traffic areas.
  • Polyester: Affordable and offers vibrant colors. Often solution-dyed, providing excellent stain resistance. However, polyester fibers tend to mat down quickly and are not ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic or oil-based stains.
  • Smart Strand (Triexta): Made from recycled materials, a newer type of fiber. It's extremely soft, solution-dyed, and highly resistant to matting and stains, making it an excellent choice for homes with pets.
  • Nylon: Known for its high durability and resistance to staining and matting. Solution-dyed nylons are particularly suitable for homes with pets, as they offer enhanced stain resistance.
  • Wool: A natural fiber known for its durability and ability to accept color well. It's an excellent choice for bedrooms but needs to be kept dry to avoid odors and damage.

Types of rugs