Braided rugs belong to the category of decor items that never go out of fashion. The reason behind their popularity is the artistry and warmth they bring. But what are braided rugs made of? Knowing the materials used in creating braided rugs helps you make the right choice.
At Homespice, we have been making braided rugs for many years earning the trust of our customers due to our commitment and quality. In this article, we will understand the processes involved in weaving these beautiful rugs and some of the materials used and how they perform as well as their aesthetic impact.
Overview of Braided Rugs
History of Braided Rugs
Starting from the very beginning itself in America braided rugs have fascinated and interested people. Immigrants often made use of any rag that they could find at hand to make sure their floor coverings served the purpose of warming up the interior of their cabins. Such rugs were very basic and offered practical use rather than any decorative aspects. As the making of braided rugs mother craft matured, so did the design and variety of the braiding rug.
In the past, and well into the present, most braided rugs were hand sewn usually from remnants and were cherished for being tough and hardwearing. Modern braided rugs however are produced in several types of variations from natural or synthetic materials. A majority of contemporary rugs look different from those that were created many years ago, but they have that similar charm and attractiveness that combines modernity and tradition.
Types of Braided Rugs
Braided rugs come in transfigured forms and styles that serve different areas in the house. Some of the examples are;
- Flat Braided Rugs: Flat braided rugs are, as the name translates, rugs braided firmly to ensure they are level on the floor, excessive and clean without any bumps. Such rugs are most suited for areas that receive a lot of movement as they can keep a profile closer to the ground without any elaborate detailing.
- Round Braided Rugs: It is a circular shaped rug which is round braided rug softens the look of a room. They are easy to use in all the nooks and corners of smaller rooms where comfort is to be enhanced.
- https://homespice.com/rugs/braided-rugs/ovalOval Braided Rugs: Oval braided rugs give a classic appeal and are above all perfect for use in eating areas and in the foyer. Their lengthwise shape is ideal for use in wide areas.
Common Materials Used in Braided Rugs
Natural Fibers
Natural fibrous materials are the most recommended in making braided rugs because of their strength, warmth, and ageless beauty.
- Wool: Wool is the strongest of the materials used in braided rugs. It is soft and warm by nature, which makes it suitable for usage in rooms such as the living room or the bedroom. Because of its composition, wool tends to be stain resistant and serves as an insulator which helps keep the floor warm during winter and cool in summer.
- Cotton: Cotton is soft and cheap making it a readily available material for most people. Cleaning is quite easy which is why it is recommended for those with children or pets. Cotton braided rugs are easy and light, therefore they can be used in places where a more casual, relaxed atmosphere is desired.
- Jute: Jute is a biodegradable material that is very much appreciated for its primitive and natural beauty. It is extremely durable therefore ideal for use in areas with heavy foot traffic like entrances or corridors. Jute imparts rawness and earthliness to any space and looks particularly good in interiors that are natural or Bohemian in inspiration.
Synthetic Fibers
stain resistance and cost effectiveness make synthetic fibers a practical option.
Nylon: Nylon is very durable, thus nylon braided rugs can be used even in areas with heavy footfall such as porches or entryways. This is because fading is not a problem with the bright colors used in making nylon braided rugs, so the rugs will remain pretty years after purchase.
Polyester: Very much like wool polyester is pleasant to walk on. It is also very stain resistant thus making mop up of spills effortless. Lastly, polyester braided rugs do not easily lose their colors making sure that they remain looking bright for a long period of time.
Polypropylene: Most people prefer Polypropylene because It has a high resistance to stains and moisture. Rugs made of Polypropylene are usefual for outdoor settings, kitchens, and bathrooms.
The Impact of Materials on the Properties of Rugs
Durability
Braided rugs are often very beautiful, but when purchasing one to use in highly-trafficked areas for instance, durability becomes the foremost consideration. Rugs made of natural materials like wool or jute are reputed for their durability and resilient characteristics. This is because wool in particular is very tough and durable in the long run. While it may be very tough for the most part, synthetic materials like nylon and polypropylene will also do well if toughness is required. To illustrate, nylon is among the most abrasive-resistant manmade fibers available and moisture, rot and stain proof Polypropylene is also used primarily in exterior regions.
Comfort and Feel
Comfort is the other aspect to be looked at when purchasing a braided rug. As such, wool and cotton are soft to touch as well as edible and therefore are ideal in places such as living and bedrooms to plush inviting areas. Polyester is also appealing as it has wool-like softness but it is relatively cheaper than wool. Conversely, some people may say jute is harsher as it is coarser but it brings many of its visuals due to the nature of the prduct, looking raw.
Maintenance and Cleaning
The other aspect which should not be overlooked is maintenance while choosing a braided rug. Washable cotton and polyester rugs are initial cleansers and are easy because these save us staining. Wool requires a bit more care since it has to be vacuum cleaned often and professionally cleaned when need arises. As for polyethylene and nylon rugs, they are very dirty and preservation-free, thereby making them perfect for households with children or use on the terraces. Both do not allow dirt and water to penetrate and hence cleaning is easy.
Choosing the Right Braided Rug for Your Home
Matching with Home Decor
While selecting a braided rug, it is equally important to consider how it fits in within the already available interior. Wool rugs are available in colors and patterns ranging across the board which adds easy compatibility to any kind of style. Jute and most cotton rugs are simple, more natural looking and grey in color, perfect for a more natural rustic or bohemian setting. If you want to use a rug with rich warm colors, then bright colors of synthetic materials like nylon or even polyester are always available.
Budget Considerations
The prices of braided rugs tend to greatly differ because of the materials employed in making the rug. Wool rugs are usually much more expensive since they are high quality and possess some natural qualities. This however, is in regard to the durability of the product and can be used for many years. On the contrary, rugs made of synthetic fibers, for example, those made using polypropylene or polyester are much cheaper and hence very suitable for people with financial constraints. Cheap does not always assuredly mean less quality. Cotton rugs also provide a cheaper option while maintaining some degree of style and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, braided rugs can be manufactured using different materials each with its own advantages. Extremely durable wool, environmentally-friendly jute, and cost-effective polypropylene – there is a braided rug for every house and every pocket. Knowing the materials that go into making these rugs will help you choose the right one for your house.
We, at Homespice, are committed to bringing our customers the best quality braided rugs considering their styles and pocket ranges. Feel free to browse our extensive inventory knowing that we will have everything from warm indoor wool rugs for the living room to extra strength outdoor polypropylene area rugs. Come on over to the Homespice website and check out the entire range of braided rugs that we have available.