Natural floor coverings have a number of advantages and it is not surprising that they have become a firm favourite in British homes. They have a certain organic quality that man-made materials cannot replicate and bring warmth and texture to a space. However, there are a number of different plant-based options, each with its own unique strengths and attributes. With this in mind, let’s look at the options available to help you choose the best natural covering for your home.
**Seagrass- Sturdy and Naturally Stain Resistant**
Native to the paddy fields, seagrass has smooth, slightly waxy fibers and is naturally dirt and stain resistant. This makes it a great choice to cover dining rooms or hallways where spills and scuffs may be an issue. The colours available in seagrass are naturally soft greens and browns so they will not take dye very well. However, be careful when using seagrass in moist areas as it does not fair well when wet.
**Sisal- The Flexible Workhorse of Natural Flooring**
When it comes to natural flooring options sisal is the most versatile as it soft enough to be walking on and tough enough to stand up to foot traffic in hallways, and living rooms. Sisal’s ability to be dyed is also a major plus since this means you are not restricted to the bland neutral tones that are often seen in natural floorings. However, keep in mind that dyed sisal in particular can be more easily stained than its natural counterpart, so be sure to keep that in mind when considering how it will be maintained.
Seagrass cannot tolerate moisture, so it is best to keep it away from bathrooms, utility rooms, kitchens, and other areas where splashing may occur.
Coir: Rustic Charm And A More Textured Finish
Coir, made from coco husks, has a very rustic and textured finish. It is ideal for cottages, boot rooms, and other casual settings and can be used in patterned weaves, or left in a simple weave. Underfoot, coir is more fibrous than sisal or jute, so it would not be your first choice in a room where you would be barefoot a lot. Coir is also not stain resistant, so spills should be cleaned up quickly to avoid permanent marks.
Jute: Softest Underfoot And Best For Low Traffic Areas
If you want softness underfoot, it is worth considering jute. It is softer than every other option, including sisal or coir, and also tends to be at a more affordable price. The downside is that durability is lower than the other options, so it is more suitable for bedrooms, lounges, and other low traffic areas, and less suitable for hallways or other high traffic spaces.
Fibre Suitability Per Room
By rule of thumb, high traffic areas require sisal or coir, while jute is better for more relaxed spaces where there is a need for comfort over resilience. Seagrass is in the middle of the range, provided that there are no moisture issues.
Natural floor coverings also blend nicely with rugs, as the fibres coordinate with wool carpets or wooden floors which helps create a cohesive look to the home.
Natural Floor Covering Maintenance
Grit and dirt can cause excessive wear and tear on the fibres of floor coverings, making regular vacuuming a must. A soft-brush vacuum is recommended, while beater-bar vacuums may be too rough. For spills, it’s best to blot the area (as opposed to rubbing) and coverings should not be excessively wet. Natural fibre coverings are also more sensitive to moisture than traditional carpet. To help maintain coverings and keep humidity in check, this is especially important in homes that are older or lack airflow.
Consider Getting Help Before You Decide
It is important to understand that because natural fibres also have their own level of durability and moisture resistance, thinking about how a room is used is critical before selecting a material. A mud room or main entry point will have opposite needs to a reading nook where a quiet place is needed and will have a very different function. Getting help from a professional who understands these fibres will assist in making the right choice.