By Kirsty Barton, Marketing Manager, Alternative Flooring
Rooted in nature, natural fibre flooring has long held its place as a leading design choice, and now more than ever, as many of us make the move towards more sustainable living and lifestyle choices. With more and more people intrigued by natural flooring, it’s no surprise that people are curious about what makes it a more sustainable option compared to the alternatives out there?
The honest answer is – Yes! Natural carpets are superior in terms of sustainability as opposed to synthetic alternatives, primarily because they are made of natural, renewable resources like sisal, jute, seagrass and coir. Typically resulting in a lower carbon footprint, higher durability and improved indoor air quality, allowing you to enjoy the natural benefits of the fibres.
Lets break it down a bit, to help educate and allow you to make a conscious decision when choosing your carpet fibre.
Jute is hand-harvested from the giant, fast growing Corchorus plant, that requires minimal water and pesticides, making it a highly sustainable choice. Loved for its more relaxed feel, Jute offers a laid-back, organic quality to interiors. Timeless and on the softer side, it’s often used in rugs or as fully fitted carpet in bedrooms and dining rooms.
Jute Herringbone Maltloaf carpet
Sisal, woven from the leaves of the Agave sisalana plant, is valued for its strength and durability, giving it a crisp look that performs brilliantly in busy areas of the home. Commonly associated with the classic country look, its variety of beautiful patterns and weaves promises a timeless appeal.
What’s better for the home, Sisal or Jute?
The main difference between the two is the feel underfoot. Jute is softer so it’s a great option for areas where a cosier touch is desired. Whereas sisal is extremely strong and has a slightly coarser feel, meaning that it can withstand busier areas of the home such as hallways and stairs. Both however are prone to staining, due to being grown in fairly humid environments they are porous materials so it’s important if spills happen to act fast and use appropriate cleaning methods.
Sisal Kayal Periyar carpet
Coir is crafted from the fibrous outer husk of coconuts. Hearty and homely, it’s rich in colour and naturally resilient, with a husky, tactile texture that makes it extremely hard-wearing, with a distinctive feel. Ideal for transitional spaces, it’s easier to maintain with occasional vacuuming, a great choice for creating a homely yet organic look.
Coir Herringbone Natural Carpet
Seagrass is an abundant and renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Grown in coastal meadows and river banks, then harvested by hand, its naturally smooth yet firm texture gives it a comfortable feel while remaining hardwearing and practical. Seagrass flooring has a beautiful neutral green hue, unlike the golden and natural brown hues of jute and coir, which soften and mellow over time.
Are natural fibres moth resistant?
Falling for a natural carpet is easy, and it’s even easier when knowing that many plant-based fibres are naturally moth resistant. Sisal, seagrass, jute and coir naturally deter moths, protecting your carpet, rug or runner and giving you peace of mind when investing in a natural fibre.
Natural fibre carpets, rugs and runners are an excellent choice for interiors whilst also being eco-conscious. While it all comes down to personal preference, the best way to decide is to experience the texture firsthand. Order samples online or simply visit your local retail partner to see and feel the difference up close.