Does It Shed?
The burning rug question I receive in my inbox multiple times a week
Not a week goes by without receiving a DM about the various natural fiber rugs I own and almost every single one starts with does it shed? Followed by is it soft? Since these questions come up so often, I thought it was time to take a deeper dive into the natural rugs I own, how they've held up over time, and a little more general insight on rug materiality.
It seems straight forward, but natural fiber is a broad term consisting of anything found in nature. Jute, Sisal, Wool, Cotton. Opposed to man-made synthetics which have become quite common today. Jute for instance is a fiber that comes from the Corchorus plant. These fibers are dried, so they naturally break down over time which often causes shedding and a feeling of roughness. Unlike fibers with a little more flexibility, they tend to break off instead of bending. When the fibers get turned into rugs the construction of the rug plays a big role in the overall softness and whether or not more or less shedding comes into play. There can be a big difference between a braided jute and a basket weave sisal.
On the other end of the spectrum are synthetic rugs, which are often marketed as a more affordable alternative to wool. Typically made from polyester or polypropylene, these rugs are essentially plastic fibers designed to mimic the look of natural materials. While some synthetic rugs may shed initially, they don’t experience the same natural fiber breakdown that causes shedding, so it is often not an issue. Although the lower price point and ease of care can be tempting, I tend to avoid synthetic rugs when possible. Not only do they lack the texture, depth, and character of natural fibers, but they are also heavily processed and can release microplastics over time. There are SO many beautiful options (like an inexpensive vintage rug) that won’t shed and hold up beautifully for years to come.
