Sisal, seagrass, hemp, coir, jute, paper…which natural fiber should I use?
In terms of overall durability and performance, sisal, seagrass, and coir-sisal blends are probably going to be your best bets—whether you select one of the Premium or Everyday weaves. Our 100% hemp, 100% jute and woven paper weaves are also really good, but you’ll need to watch them in high traffic areas. Softer wool-sisal blends like Tournai, Grand Tournai and Artiste are durable, but they’re recommended for use in low traffic areas like bedrooms or formal living rooms. If you have pets, kids, and/or a floor to cover in a busy room, we recommend seagrass more than anything else. It’s inexpensive and great looking, and the texture and color variations in the weave tend to hide dirt and stains more than tightly woven sisal. If sisal is really the look you want, choose a weave with lots of shade and texture variation, in one of the darker hues. Or go with one of the less expensive weaves— that way, if accidents do happen and your rug is ruined, replacing it won’t cost an arm and a leg.
