Natural fiber rugs are great neutral option for a space. Their texture brings a lot of interest to a neutral palette and can even be layered under a smaller area rug for extra depth. Because they are natural and the look has been around for centuries, you can also be confident that they will never go out of style.

There are three types of natural fiber rugs: seagrass, sisal, and jute. Each have their own distinct qualities that set them apart and should be considered before making a choice. They may seem interchangeable, but they all vary in both style and functionality.

Here is a quick guide to the three natural fiber rugs:

SEAGRASS

Seagrass rugs are made from actual grass grown in seawater. Fields of seagrass are flooded with seawater and then the grass is harvested, dried, and spun into yarn.

PROS: The biggest advantages of seagrass are that it is the most affordable and also the most durable of the three.

CONS: Unfortunately, seagrass is very limited in the styles offered and cannot be dyed. It is also has the roughest texture.

Source: House Beautiful

Source: Coastal Living

Source: Architectural Digest Espana

JUTE

Jute was traditionally used for rope and twine in East India and Bangladesh for centuries. Eventually, the British began using jute into fabric to create sacks, which we know now today as burlap.

PROS: Jute is the softest of the natural fiber rugs to walk on. Like seagrass, it can’t be dyed, though it can be bleached to give it alternate natural shades. Since it is fabricated, some jute rugs have a hand-crafted look that gives them extra character.

CONS: Of all three, jute requires the most maintenance as the fibers can pop up and require cutting to keep them in shape. They can also stain rather easily.

Source: My Domaine

Source: The Everygirl

Source: Traditional Home

SISAL

The fibers in sisal are extracted from an agave plant and spun into yarn. Brazil is the leading producer, though it is native to Mexico and is cultivated in South America and Africa.

PROS: Sisal is soft on the feet and has a wide range of styles available in various colors, patterns, and overall looks.

CONS: Sisal can stain easily. Plus, if you need a rug for a large room, you will be more limited to your choices as certain weaves cannot be seamed.

Source: BHG Centsational Style

Source: Veranda

Source: Traditional Home

I hope this helps you if you find yourself looking for a natural fiber rug. All three are fantastic options ─ it’s all about finding the one that is right for you and your space.

Warm regards,
Megan