9 reasons why wool rugs are the perfect choice for modern interiors

The Campaign for Wool has earmarked October as wool month, and to celebrate this wonderful natural fibre, we’ve put together our top reasons why wool rugs are the perfect way to bring a space together - including a few things that may surprise you. We’ve also created our own wool rug lookbook to inspire you with some of our favourite 100% wool rugs.

Natural wool rugs are the eco-friendly choice for modern homes and businesses.

Wool rugs are made from natural fibres that are biodegradable, renewable, and recyclable. Unlike rugs made from synthetic materials, wool is a renewable resource that can be shorn from sheep annually without causing harm to the animal.

Wool rugs require minimal energy for production and generally have a longer lifespan than other types such as nylon rugs or cotton rugs, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This not only saves money but also reduces the environmental impact of constantly producing new floor coverings.

At the end of their lifespan, 100% wool rugs are fully biodegradable. By choosing wool rugs, you are not only investing in a high-quality and luxurious flooring option, but also making an environmentally responsible choice. Take a look at how to dispose an unwanted rug in the most sustainable way via our End of Rug Guide.

Our most sustainable rugs

If you want to take things a big step further when it comes to sustainability, have a look at our Wasted Collection: all wool rugs in this designer collection are made from 100% waste wool that is the off-cut material from other rugs. Not only do these highly sustainable rugs make a one-of-a-kind hallway runner or area rug for a living room, they also make perfect statement rugs for commercial spaces - we were thrilled when Angela’s Hotel in Margate selected Wasted as their sustainable hotel room rugs.

Wool rugs are easy to clean and maintain, practical for modern lifestyles or commercial spaces

Wool rugs are an excellent choice for those seeking a low maintenance and easy to clean floor covering. This natural material is known for its durability and resilience, making it resistant to wear and tear. The tightly woven fibres of wool make it difficult for dirt and debris to penetrate, and wool fibres have a natural coating that repels liquids, making wool rugs an ideal floor covering for high-traffic areas such as hallways or busy spaces such as hotel lobbies and business reception areas.

Unlike polypropylene rugs or carpets, wool rugs do not attract static electricity, making them less likely to attract dust and debris. Plus, certain types of stains such as oil or grease can be very difficult to remove from polypropylene rugs, and the friction from scrubbing can cause irreparable damage and marring of synthetic rugs.

How to clean a wool rug

In contrast, wool rugs are highly durable and can withstand frequent vacuuming and even occasional steam cleaning without losing their shape or colour. Wool is naturally stain-resistant, making it easy to clean up spills and accidents on a wool rug. Regular vacuuming and occasional spot cleaning with a mild detergent are typically all that is needed to maintain the beauty and longevity of a wool rug.

If you do have a spill or stain, start by vacuuming the rug to remove any loose dirt or debris. Next, spot clean any stains with a mixture of mild detergent and warm water. Be sure to blot the stain rather than rub it, so you don’t damage the wool fibres. For overall cleaning, use a mild wool-specific cleaner and follow the instructions carefully. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing.

Lastly, allow the rug to air dry completely before placing it back in its designated area. Regular maintenance and gentle cleaning can help preserve the quality and lifespan of your wool rug. Check out our rug care guide for tips and hacks for increasing the longevity of your rugs.

Wool rugs are natural insulators, making a space feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer

Wool rugs have long been recognised as excellent insulators, providing both warmth in the colder seasons and cooling effects when the temperature rises. This is due to the unique properties of wool, which allows it to adapt to different environments and efficiently regulate temperature. The structure of wool fibres creates tiny air pockets that trap heat, making wool rugs an effective insulator in colder months. In the summer, the same air pockets allow for air circulation, allowing rooms to feel cooler.

Additionally, natural wool fibres have the ability to absorb and release moisture, helping to maintain an ideal level of humidity which can make a space feel more comfortable. This not only saves energy and reduces heating and cooling costs, but also creates a cosy environment in your living or work space.

Wool rugs are better for allergies, asthma and your environment

Wool rugs are a popular choice for home and business owners looking to create a clean and healthy living space. Unlike synthetic rugs made of materials such as polypropylene or nylon, which are essentially plastic fibres made of petrochemicals, wool rugs are made from natural fibres and do not release harmful chemicals into the air.

Many cheaper polypropylene rugs (also known as olefin rugs) can release volatile organic chemicals, known as VOCs, that can cause headaches and irritate the respiratory system. Additionally, wool has natural properties that make it resistant to bacteria and mould growth, making it a hypoallergenic option for those with allergies. As wool rugs are naturally resistant to stains and odours, this reduces the need for harsh cleaning chemicals, too.

Wool rugs last longer and are a timeless, classic choice.

Wool rugs have been a preferred floor covering for centuries due to their exceptional durability and longevity. This can be attributed to the natural resilience and strength of the wool fibre, which is known to withstand wear and tear over extended periods.

Unlike other fibres, such as cotton or synthetic materials, wool is less prone to breakage and maintains its shape and texture even after years of use. Its natural elasticity also allows it to bounce back and retain its original shape, allowing wool rugs retain their luxurious appearance and continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years. Overall, the superior quality of wool makes it a wise investment for those seeking a rug with a longer lifespan.

Soft wool rugs add warmth and a lush feel to modern interiors.

Wool rugs have long been revered for their luxurious and timeless appeal in interior design. The use of wool in rug making dates back centuries, and its enduring quality is a testament to its unmatched durability and beauty. Contemporary wool rugs add a touch of elegance and sophistication, creating a sense of warmth and comfort in any space.

The natural fibres of wool rugs offer a softness and plushness that cannot be replicated by synthetic materials, making them a truly indulgent addition to any room. Designer wool rugs combine the practical, hardwearing qualities of wool with a unique aesthetic, creating a piece of art you can walk on. For the ultimate in luxury, go for a hand knotted rug with a high number of knots per inch. This construction technique creates a plush, velvety feeling underfoot.

Wool rugs add unparalleled texture and depth to any room.

The range of colours and patterns available in wool rugs allows for endless possibilities in terms of design, and they can easily tie together different elements in a room. Synthetic materials such as polypropylene have a limited colour acceptability which limits the intensity and depth of colours available. Wool is highly absorbent to dye, and unlike cotton, is also fade-resistant.

The wide variety of construction techniques also brings multiple options for introducing texture to a space - from the deep pile luxury of tufted wool rugs, to the classic flat-weave rug style commonly found in kilims and vintage rugs, to jacquard, hand woven and even sculptural three dimensional rugs such as our geometric Morf rug.

Did you know that wool rugs are flame-retardant?

Wool fibres possess a unique structure and composition - a relatively high protein and moisture content - which make them inherently flame-retardant. Unlike other materials, wool does not easily ignite or spread fire, making it a safe and reliable choice for use in homes, offices, and other commercial spaces such as hotel rooms, where safety is of utmost importance.

This added level of fire resistance not only provides a sense of security and peace of mind for users, but also makes wool rugs a practical and responsible choice for commercial interior designers.

Wool rugs provide sound insulation, ideal for noisy environments or considerate neighbours

Wool rugs have been utilised for centuries for their warmth, durability, and aesthetic appeal. However, what many may not realise is that wool rugs also offer significant acoustic benefits and sound insulation. The dense and tightly packed fibres of wool rugs act as a natural sound absorber, reducing echoes and reverberations in a room. This is especially beneficial in large, open spaces such as living rooms or offices.

Additionally, wool has a high absorption coefficient, meaning it can effectively dampen sound waves, creating a more peaceful and quiet environment. This makes wool rugs a practical and functional choice for those looking to improve the acoustics and sound insulation of their space. The thick and plush nature of wool rugs can help to muffle footsteps and other noises, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment - ideal if you have downstairs neighbours you’d like to keep the peace with.

Our handmade wool rugs support local artisans, fair trade standards and the end of child labour