Rugs are often purchased primarily for their “look,” but they must perform well, too. The materials listed are carefully chosen to serve reliably under differing conditions and at specific price levels.

The principal characteristics of rug fibers are:

• Density - Refers to the closeness or “tightness” of the tufts or knots. The more dense the pile, the better the life and wear resistance.
  
• Twist - This term describes the winding or spinning of yarn fibers around themselves. A tight yarn twist is desired for optimum resilience.

The type of fiber chosen for use in your rug will also help to determine its appearance and performance. Most fibers provide brilliant colors, easy maintenance, softness and outstanding value. Natural fit soft, low luster colors, long term performance and the desired aesthetic properties are all elements of choice.

There are two basic categories of rug fibers and each material within the categories has distinct characteristics.

Wool - Wool is the traditional standard of the industry. It wears very well, is available in many colors. Advantages are fiber fineness, fiber length and natural color. It has high bulk and is noted for its softness and handsome finishes. Short fiber wool is “carded” (rough combed) and is called “woolen”. Longer-fiber yarn is (fine) “combed” and called “worsted”.

Cotton - The use of cotton in the foundation of pile rugs is a very old practice. Often chosen for its softness and good wearing performance, is also used for backing because of its resistance to stretching. Cotton is available in many colors. It is used in both hand-made and machine-made rugs. It is often used for backing material.

Silk - Silk is the royalty material for rugs. It is used in the pile and foundation of some of the most costly Middle Eastern and Chinese rugs. Its strength, sheen, brilliant colors and softness have been treasured for centuries in luxury rugs It is sometimes used in combination with wool to impart highlights and luster.

Grasses - Many types of sea, field and mountain grass are woven into “natural” rugs. Wear properties vary, but are generally somewhat less that with other fiber types. The range of available colors tends to be limited. Costs for these materials range from modest to medium-high

Wood fibers - Most common of these are flax, hemp and jute. Bamboo and other wood types are also woven into many types of rug applications.

Animal hair - In some regions, goat hair, camel hair, horse hair and yak hair are also used in rugmaking

Acrylic - Often used for bathroom and “fun” rugs, acrylics have the appearance of wool. Wear properties are fair. Costs are favorable. It is often blended with other man-made fibers.

Nylon - Resists soiling, wears well and is easily cleaned. Available in a wide variety of brilliant colors. Resilient, performs well under heavy traffic. Withstands movement of heavy furniture. Moderate cost level.

Olefins - Polypropylene is strong and has a wool-like feel. It resists wear and stains. It is colorfast and is used primarily in machine-made rugs. Both polypropylene and polyethylene are used in outdoor carpet applications. Moderate relative cost.

Polyester - Has many of the features of the olefins. When used in thick, cut-pile applications; presents a very soft “hand”. Slightly more expensive than olefins.

Blends - Any of the above fiber types may be combined for special performance and/or appearance properties.

Other materials (gold, silver, etc.) are also sometimes incorporated.