11 Sustainable & Non-Toxic Rugs for the Eco-Friendly Home (2024)
Image: CICIL
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The Best Non-Toxic & Sustainable Rug Brands
There is something special about a rug that brings a room together. The intricate patterns and textures of the rugs in your home can inspire the overall design of each room and become the central element that ties everything together.
At Sustainably Chic, we are mindful of the environmental impact of our purchases, so we prioritize rugs made of sustainably-sourced natural materials like handwoven jute and organic cotton. We also appreciate the charm of second-hand and vintage rugs, each with its own unique story and character.
In addition to aesthetics, practicality is important to us. We prioritize easy maintenance, especially in high-traffic areas, and we prefer washable rugs to ensure that your living spaces remain inviting and conducive to both work and play without compromising the beauty of your rugs.
What makes a rug sustainable?
Sustainable rugs are meticulously crafted using eco-friendly and non-toxic materials and production methods to minimize the negative impact on the environment. These rugs are often handwoven or machine-woven from organic or recycled fibers, such as jute, seagrass, bamboo, hemp, or even yarn made from recycled plastic bottles. By utilizing these materials, sustainable rug manufacturers significantly reduce the reliance on non-renewable resources and decrease the amount of waste generated during the production process.
Moreover, sustainable rug manufacturers prioritize ethical labor practices, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and supporting local communities where the rugs are made. This commitment to ethical sourcing and production processes reflects a dedication to both environmental and social responsibility. Furthermore, they are free from harmful chemicals and toxins commonly found in non-sustainable rugs, contributing to a cleaner and safer indoor environment.
What's more, sustainable rugs are renowned for their durability and longevity. Their high-quality construction allows them to withstand heavy foot traffic and retain their beauty for years to come, making them a worthwhile investment for any space. Whether you're looking for a stylish area rug or a durable runner for a high-traffic area, sustainable rugs offer both elegance and practicality.
Why Purchase From a Sustainable Rug Brand?
When you make a purchase of a rug from any of the brands mentioned below, you are contributing to the creation of safer working conditions for the individuals involved in the production process. Additionally, the materials used in these rugs are not only better for the environment but also for your own health.
By selecting a rug from these brands, you are ensuring that you are investing in a higher quality product that is designed to last for many years in your home. In an industry fraught with excessive waste and unethical treatment of workers, it is more crucial than ever to throw your support behind brands that consistently prioritize the well-being of the planet and its people.
our top picks for sustainable rugs:
1. Made Trade
Price | $59 - 1,999
When searching for a variety of sustainable and fair trade options, Made Trade stands out as the ideal destination. This online marketplace is a personal favorite as it hosts a wide array of ethical brands all in one place. Their rug collection is particularly striking, showcasing renowned brands such as Kiliim, Zuahaza, MINNA, and Leah Singh.
The rug featured in the image is a stunning piece from Kiliim, which we have also highlighted in a detailed blog post from a few years back. Find more information here.
2. The Citizenry
Price | $200 - 2,799
The exquisite artisan rugs offered by The Citizenry are a testament to their commitment to quality and sustainability. The dedicated team at The Citizenry goes the extra mile by personally traveling to each country where their goods are made. This allows them to carefully select only the finest local materials and forge meaningful, sustainable relationships with the talented artisans who bring their products to life. By handling this process themselves & eliminating middlemen, they are able to provide customers with high-quality, handmade goods at prices more accessible than those found at traditional luxury boutiques.
3. Sabai
Price | $495 - 995
Sabai's beautiful Field Rug is a durable and elegant addition to any living space. It is meticulously woven using natural and sustainable wool and jute fibers. This rug is proudly made in the U.S. and showcases a captivating texture that perfectly combines the softness of wool with the raw, earthy charm of jute. For those who appreciate authentic rustic elements, the subtle coarseness of the jute fibers adds a delightful tactile dimension. Sabai Design is a BIPOC-owned brand with a mission to create beautifully designed, affordable furniture & home goods that don’t cost the earth.
4. CICIL
Price | $139 - 2,199
CICIL is a women-owned and operated, sustainability-focused home goods company. Their approach to creating sustainable products for the home includes using only natural, renewable materials, which means ZERO synthetic or petrochemical-based fibers. They make products in the USA with a traceable supply chain. CICIL's unique, modern braided rugs bring joyful warmth and a grounding foundation to any room. You can have peace of mind knowing the product uses natural and non-toxic materials, made in harmony with the environment. Plus, you can now order a rug that’s customized for the exact size you need! Just use this calculator to order yours.
5. Parachute
Price | $129 - 1,999
Parachute's exquisite hand-woven rugs are meticulously crafted to infuse each room of your home with unique character and style. Their soothing neutral tones effortlessly complement any decor, while the use of natural materials such as jute and wool ensures both quality and sustainability. Many of these stunning rugs are ethically produced by highly skilled artisans in Panipat, India, a city renowned as "The City of Weavers." These masterpieces are created at an 80-year-old heritage textiles factory that is dedicated to upholding social and environmental responsibility.
6. Lorena Canals
Price | $95 - 3,900
Since 1998, Lorena Canals has dedicated herself to creating exquisite rugs with a strong emphasis on sustainability. She established her own artisan factory in India and oversees operations from her offices in Barcelona, New Delhi, and New York.
Lorena Canals' rugs are not only beautifully handcrafted but also washable.
Their popular Leaf Rug and Nature Path Rugs have garnered widespread attention. Whether you're redesigning a child's room, nursery or your living room, their diverse range of designs is definitely worth exploring.
7. Loomy
Price | $348 - 898
Loomy's exquisite designs are just the beginning of what sets this brand apart.
Every rug is meticulously handcrafted and responsibly sourced from skilled artisans around the globe, resulting in a diverse range of styles and designs.
Not only are these rugs handmade and eco-friendly, but they are also built to withstand the rigors of everyday life. They are created using naturally sourced, eco-friendly, or recycled materials, ensuring both durability and environmental consciousness.
8. Burrow
Price | $185 - 849
Burrow is a well-known furniture and home goods brand located in New York. The company specializes in producing items that blend American mid-century modernism and Scandinavian design.
One of their standout products is their performance rugs, which are crafted using post-consumer recycled fiber. These rugs are designed to be long-lasting, as they do not shed and are resistant to stains. Additionally, the hand-tufted texture provides a comfortable feel while also being easy to clean with a vacuum.
9. Pottery Barn
Price | $39-5,999
Pottery Barn may not be the first brand that comes to mind when thinking about ethical production and sustainable products, but they have made significant strides in these areas. The company has been actively working on ethical production and offers a range of sustainably made products. What's more, their pricing is more accessible compared to other brands, and the option to visit their physical stores provides added convenience. When browsing through Pottery Barn's rug collection, it's important to look for the small symbols indicating that the rug is handmade, fair trade, and sustainably sourced.
10. West Elm
Price | $130 - 5,805
Although not everything West Elm offers is sustainable, they have a substantial selection of sustainably-made items.
We’ve provided links to all of their sustainable rugs, and they have some stunning options!
The rug featured in the picture has a recycled cotton backing and is meticulously handmade in India.
While not all their rugs use natural materials, a significant portion of them are crafted in a Fair Trade factory using sustainable materials.
11. Oh Happy Home
Price | $42 - 716
Oh Happy Home offers an extensive range of high-quality rugs designed for various areas of your home such as the living room, bathroom, hallway, and nursery. These rugs are crafted using eco-conscious materials such as 100% cotton or wool. Many of the rugs are conveniently machine washable, adding to their practicality and ease of maintenance. Each rug is meticulously handmade with a strong emphasis on ethical practices and is accredited by Goodweave International. This accreditation attests that the rugs are produced without the use of forced labor or child labor.
How To CAre For Your Rugs
Caring for sustainable rugs is quite simple. Here are some tips to help your rug maintain its best appearance:
Vacuum Regularly: Regular vacuuming is important to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently clean the rug's surface. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, especially if you have a delicate natural fiber rug.
Rotate Your Rug: To prevent uneven wear, rotate your rug every few months to ensure it receives equal foot traffic and maintains its appearance.
Spot Clean Spills Immediately: If a spill happens, it's important to act fast to prevent stains from setting. Use a clean cloth to blot the spill and soak up as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this could cause it to set deeper into the fibers. You can use a non-toxic detergent or a mixture of water & vinegar to clean the affected area, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Professional Cleaning: Depending on the type of rug, it may be necessary to have it professionally cleaned every few years. It is important to refer to the manufacturer's recommendations or seek advice from a professional rug cleaner to determine the best cleaning method for your specific rug.
Protect from Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause colors to fade and weaken the fibers of your rug. Consider rotating the rug periodically to minimize sun exposure.
By following these care tips, you can extend the lifespan of your rug and maintain its beauty for years to come.
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WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?
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