
5 Best Rug Materials for High Traffic Areas


Letβs talk about high traffic home areas: the kitchen, living room, kids room and mudroom. These are the areas that get the most wear and tear from constant foot traffic. In my house, itβs definitely the living room/playroom.
When looking for aΒ rugΒ that can really deliver durability, the material is going to be the key. But whatβs the difference between all of them? How do you choose? What materials are best and which should be avoided? Weβre here to help. Check out our 5 best rug material picks for those areas that get the most love.Β Β

1. Wool
One of the most durable materials out there, wool is a popular choice for many. Itβs definitely more of an investment, but they will last longer. Instead of having to change it up and/or buy a new rug every few years, a wool rug really is worth the money.Β
Another feature that makes this material a good choice is how soft it is, making it a dream for bare feet. The fibers are resilient, repel stains and are good at keeping dirt at a minimum. It doesnβt harbor dust mites or encourage bacterial growth, making it a good one for those with allergies.Β Β
Overall, itβs a great material to choose for not only durability but for allergy-sensitive and texture-seeking buyers.Β Β
2. Nylon
If looking for a rug with bright colors and patterns, nylon might be the one for you. Itβs resistant to dirt and spills, making it ideal for those with pets or little ones running around. Like wool, itβs soft to the touch, a plus for those looking for something more cost-effective than wool with a similar feel.Β Β Β
Parents would be in good hands with a nylon rug. Not only is it soft for little crawlers and spill-resistant, but itβs also fairly easy to clean. Originally, nylon rugs were made to mimic the look of silk rugs, but much more low maintenance. For a high-quality rug with so many benefits, a nylon material might be the ticket.Β Β


3.Β Polypropylene
For an almost indestructible material and one that can be used inside and outside, check out rugs made out of polypropylene. Stain and mildew resistant, easy to clean and affordable, this material is a tough one to beat. Itβs also surprisingly soft to the touch.Β Β
You can use a rug made of this material outside by the pool or a room in the house that tends to get a lot of sunshine. Polypropylene holds its color well and wonβt fade in the sun. Another plus is that itβs non-toxic, making it safe for pets.Β Β
Is it time for a new area rug?
4. Cotton
Not as durable as polypropylene or nylon, we still recommend a cotton rug material for high traffic areas. Because itβs flat woven and doesnβt have a high pile, itβs pretty easy to clean. Throw it in the wash, let it air dry outdoors and itβll be good as new.Β Β
Cotton rugs are a popular choice because of their versatility. With so many sizes, colors, patterns, and pile heights, the options are endless. While it wonβt be a rug that will get passed down through generations, itβs still a functional and stylish option.Β Β


5.Β Natural Fiber: Jute, Sisal and Seagrass
Our final recommendation is rugs made of natural fiber like jute, sisal, or seagrass. The fibers are spun together into weaves or braids that not only add stylish points but also durability. Note that they arenβt as soft as wool or cotton, which can be a drawback for some.Β Β
Jute is a fiber made from a plant of the same name and is the most popular plant fiber after cotton. Sisal is a fiber made from the Mexican agave plant and seagrass is made from dried grasses that grow under the ocean near India. Seagrass is typically tougher than jute, which is why you see a lot of welcome matsΒ made from this material.Β Β
What natural fiber rugs lack in softness, they gain in eco-friendliness. They are biodegradable and renewable, as well as easy to clean.Β Β
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In choosing the perfect rug for your high traffic area, the material really is everything. Avoid plush rugs like shag or fur, as they will matte and prove to be difficult to clean. Silk and viscose are super soft and luxurious, so save those for decor purposes and not as much for high traffic areas. Lastly, be aware of a thick pile height. Rugs with a pile height of 0.75β or more are considered plush and therefore not the best choice. Β
One simple step that can extend the life of any rug you buy is the pad underneath. Most rugs donβt wear out from the top, but actually from the bottom where the knots rub against the floor. A pad works as a shock absorber and also helps hold the rug in place.Β Β
Finding a beautiful rug can really liven up the space in your house. With endless options and a variety of materials, we hope this guide helps you find the perfect rug for your room.Β Β
Refresh Your Room
Decorate your space with an area rug in the size, material and pattern youβre looking for.