By: David Neishabori
Do you ever wonder why the best rugs in the world are handwoven from wool? This is a common question that rug shoppers ask. Without a doubt, wool is beautiful and durable. The fiber has been used for thousands of years. The first wool rug was recorded in 3000 B.C.
1. Durability: Even low-quality wool is exceptionally durable. Rugs woven from wool have lasted for centuries unchanged. A wool rug will easily outlast modern rugs made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, acrylic, or nylon. Most consider wool the most resilient choice. With proper care, the fibrous piece will last a lifetime and beyond.
2. Vibrant Colors: The fibers of wool accept colors readily so rugs can be designed in many hues without fading. Whether you purchase an Oriental, Southwestern, tribal, transitional, or modern handwoven rug you can rest assured that the wool’s colors will last and resist fading for decades. The fibers readily absorb deep shades of dyes and then lock the color in with a distinct molecular bond. When completely dyed, a wool rug has a low luster which provides it with an extraordinarily rich appearance.
3. Naturally Stain Resistant: Wool resists stains and moisture. If you accidentally spill a liquid on wool, then you can usually avoid staining if you rapidly blot up the moisture using a dry white cloth or paper towel. Regular vacuuming also pulls up dirt and debris to leave your wool rug looking wonderful. Vacuuming also prevents premature wear.
4. Sustainable: One of the remarkable things about wool is that it is completely natural and sustainable. Wool is harvested from sheep which continue to grow the wool even after being sheared. This means that shepherds have an endless supply of premium wool. The sheep readily regrow their wool fibers every season. This makes wool very sustainable.
5. Machine made or handcrafted: All wool rugs are either machine made or handcrafted. Normally, machine-made wool rugs lack the quality of a handwoven, hand tufted, hand knotted, or flatweave rug. Each design has artisanal qualities that make it stand out from a machine-made item. Also, a handcrafted wool rug looks different and feels better.
6. Flame resistant: Wool is flame resistant When the flame is removed, the rug has the capability of self-extinguishing. Even if your wool rug sustains a burn then the charred spots can be brushed away, so you never notice the burns. The reason that wool is so flame resistant is that it has an exceedingly high moisture content which gives it a high threshold against ignition. When a flame touches wool the individual fibers might sustain damage, but the wool will also extinguish the fire and prevent spreading.
7. Water resistant: You have noticed if you spill liquid onto the surface of your wool rug then the water will usually just bead up in the spot and can be blotted away. The reason wool is water resistant is that each sheath is coated in a repellant membrane. The wool’s high moisture content also means that your rug will not suffer from static electricity, so you won’t have endured any shocks while wearing your shoes.
8. Comfort: Wool feel soft and cushioned beneath your feet. If you have ever run your hand across a synthetic fiber rug and then touched a wool item, you have been shocked at just how different the two rugs feel. A cut pile and loop construction are exceptionally stable and will last for years.
9. Controls Temperature. Does your home get cold during the winter months or hot in the summer? One of the pleasant things about wool is that it feels warm in the winter and cool in the summer. During the winter it also prevents the room’s heat from escaping through the flooring. Also, if you live in a humid climate then you will be happy to learn that wool absorbs moisture during times of extreme humidity and then releases the water into the atmosphere during the dry months.
10. Prevents Slipping: Synthetic fibers are smooth, so they create a slippery surface. However, if you look at wool fibers under a microscope then you will see that has many fibers on top of fibers that create grip when walking across the rug’s surface. Wool rugs are wonderful at preventing slip and fall accidents in the elderly.
At AZADI, we carry thousands of handwoven rugs that are made from high-grade premium wool. Whether you want subdued colors or brightly brilliant hues, be rest assured that our fine rug experts can help you find the perfect area rug for your home. Call today to begin your unforgettable shopping experience.
Visit AZADI Fine Rugs in the following locations: (AZ, CO, WY, HI, and by appointment… anywhere in the U.S.A.)
AZADI Fine Rugs In Scottsdale: (480) 483-4600 https://www.azadifinerugs.com/scottsdale-az/
AZADI Fine Rugs In Sedona: (928) 203-0400 https://www.azadifinerugs.com/sedona-az/
AZADI Fine Rugs In Jackson Hole (307) 734-0169 https://www.azadifinerugs.com/jackson-hole/
AZADI Fine Rugs In Telluride: (970) 728-4620 https://www.azadifinerugs.com/telluride-co/
AZADI Navajo Rugs in Sedona: (928) 203-0620 https://www.azadifinerugs.com/sedona-navajo/
