Rug Textures 101
Everything you need to know about what's underfoot.
03 October –
Rug Textures 101
Contents
When selecting a rug it’s natural to gravitate towards whatever patterns or colors we like best or what suits the space, but it’s important not to forget about the material that the rug is composed of.
When it comes to choosing the perfect rug for your home, it’s not just about color and pattern—rug materials and textures play the biggest role in how your space looks, feels, and functions. From durable synthetic rugs to luxurious wool rugs, natural fiber options like jute, seagrass, and sisal, and even silk-like viscose rugs, each material has its own benefits and care considerations. The right texture can transform a room, whether you need an easy-to-clean rug for high-traffic areas, a cozy wool rug for the living room, or an indoor-outdoor PET rug for patios and entryways.
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about rug textures—including maintenance tips, where to style them, and how to choose the best rug material for your lifestyle. Whether you’re shopping for family-friendly rugs, pet-friendly rugs, or a statement piece that elevates your design, understanding what’s underfoot will help you make the right choice.
Shop all McGee & Co. rugs here.
01
Synthetic
Synthetic rugs are your go-to when you need durability, stain-resistance, and ease of care without breaking the bank. McGee & Co.’s synthetic varieties—including polyester, nylon, PET (recycled soft-yarn), and synthetic blends—are engineered for high-traffic and family-friendly zones.
These rugs mirror the look and softness of higher-end materials like wool or viscose, but with added benefits: they resist fading, mold, mildew, and shedding. This makes them ideal picks for entryways, mudrooms, kids’ bedrooms, basements, porches, and even outdoor spaces.
When shopping for synthetic rugs, be sure to note:
Fiber Type | PET is excellent for indoor/outdoor use and is often made from recycled plastic bottles.
Weave & Finish | Blended synthetics can mimic wool; flatweave or handwoven synthetics tend to wear well and are easier to vacuum.
Color & Fading | Even though synthetics resist fading, direct sunlight over time can reduce color vibrancy. Rotating the rug helps.
Maintenance Tips | Vacuum regularly (turn off the beater bar if needed), blot spills immediately, use a suitable cleaning agent safe for synthetic fibers, and place a rug pad beneath to minimize slipping and to prolong the rug’s life.
02
Wool
Wool rugs are timeless, versatile, and instantly elevate a space with soft texture and natural durability. As one of the most popular rug materials, wool is used in everything from premium hand-knotted area rugs to more affordable machine-woven options. Its natural resilience, water-resistant qualities, and stain-repellent fibers make it a practical yet luxurious choice for almost any room.
Designers love wool for its ability to bring warmth, depth, and softness underfoot while also standing up to daily life. Wool rugs are especially popular in living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and family spaces, as they transition seamlessly across both traditional and modern design styles.
A few things to keep in mind: wool rugs naturally shed, especially in the first few months of use. This is completely normal and subsides with regular care. To keep your rug looking its best, vacuum often (without using the beater bar) and rotate your rug periodically to prevent uneven wear.
When cared for properly, a wool rug can last for decades, making it a long-term investment piece that balances style, comfort, and performance.
Shop McGee & Co.’s wool rugs here.
03
Jute, Seagrass, & Sisal
Natural fiber rugs like jute, seagrass, and sisal are loved for their organic tones and earthy textures that instantly bring warmth and character into a space. These eco-friendly rug materials pair beautifully with a wide range of design styles, from coastal to modern farmhouse, and are especially popular for creating a casual, lived-in feel.
Made from natural grasses, these rugs are durable enough for high-traffic areas and households with kids or pets. They’re also generally more affordable than wool or silk rugs, making them a budget-friendly way to add texture and dimension to your home. However, natural fiber rugs do come with some trade-offs: they can shed, be tricky to clean, and don’t perform well in humid environments since moisture can damage their structure.
When choosing between natural fiber options, consider both comfort and durability:
Jute rugs are soft underfoot and bring a relaxed, cozy feel, but they are less stain-resistant.
Sisal rugs are stronger, more structured, and hold up better in high-traffic spaces.
Seagrass rugs are naturally resistant to stains and water, making them a practical choice for busy homes.
Shea and the design team love styling these rugs in entryways, kitchens, and layered beneath vintage rugs for added texture and depth. Whether you’re looking for a sustainable rug option, a neutral foundation piece, or a hard-wearing natural fiber rug, jute, sisal, and seagrass offer versatile solutions to suit your lifestyle.
Shop McGee & Co.’s jute rugs here.
04
PET (Polyethylene)
PET rugs—short for polyethylene terephthalate—are a type of synthetic rug material most often made from recycled plastic bottles, making them both eco-friendly and highly practical. Known for their durability and easy-to-clean qualities, PET rugs are especially popular as indoor-outdoor rugs because they can withstand moisture, direct sunlight, and heavy foot traffic.
Despite their strength, PET rugs are surprisingly soft underfoot, closely mimicking the look and feel of wool or cotton. This makes them a versatile choice for both outdoor patios and decks as well as indoor spaces like entryways, dining rooms, and kids’ playrooms where spills and messes are common. Their stain-resistant fibers make maintenance simple—just spot clean or hose off as needed.
Choosing a PET rug also supports sustainability, since many are crafted from recycled materials. They are an excellent way to combine eco-conscious design with the functionality of a family-friendly rug.
You May Also Like
