Natural-Fiber Flooring Options

Roll out an organic rug and invite Mother Nature in.

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Filed under: Rugs, Eco-Friendly, Flooring, Organic

A sisal rug looks right at home in an urban loft. Design by RMS user cbowman.

Natural-fiber flooring is a great, easy-care choice for high-traffic spaces, folks who prefer organic materials or any room where cushy flooring isn’t necessary. No, natural fibers aren’t plush, but they’re extremely durable and add a natural look to any space. The main fibers used in flooring are sisal, seagrass, jute and mountain grass, and all come in a variety of textures and hues. Here’s a look at their individual charms:

Sisal is created from the fleshy leaf fiber of the Agave sisalana plant. The fibers are spun into a heavy-duty yarn to create durable, long-lasting carpeting and rugs. Sisal is naturally a yellow-beige color but readily accepts dyes and paints. A sisal rug can be tinted to resemble one of the more expensive natural choices such as mountain grass or dyed to a vibrant hue.

Basket-weave seagrass flooring

Seagrass flooring is created from salt-marsh grass and is less expensive than sisal. It can be woven into a variety of patterns, including herringbone and basket-weave. The material is naturally anti-static and is a good flooring choice for allergy sufferers because it resists dust and dirt. Seagrass is also naturally stain-resistant and very durable.

Jute rugs offer a softer texture than sisal. Like other natural-fiber rugs, they’re highly durable but make a better choice for homes with young children.

Mountain grass is similar to seagrass in texture, but the drier growing conditions result in a deeper shade of brown. Like seagrass, it can be woven into different patterns.