When you’re planning the look and functionality of your home, wool area rugs can play a vital role. They have the qualities you need for many of the spaces in your home, but what exactly is the benefit of picking rugs made of this traditional material?
Live vs. Dead Wool
It may surprise you to learn that there are different kinds of wool, and the type a rug is made from will alter its value and longevity. You probably already know that wool comes from sheep and other animals, and it is unique when compared to the hair or fur of other creatures. The kind of animal and the place it is raised also matters, but this may not be evident when looking at a few different rugs. But what you may not know is that there are different ways of obtaining wool.
At Alyshaan, we only stock wool area rugs made from what is known as “live” wool — that just means the wool was sheared from a living animal. This method of obtaining the wool leaves the natural oils and proteins of the fibers intact, making it more durable and vibrant. You might be wondering, How can you get wool from an animal if you don’t shear it? The answer is a bit morbid: wool is removed chemically from dead animals, which strips the oils from the fiber. Dead wool is more rough to the touch than live wool, so the dead variety isn’t as kind to your barefoot as live wool when made into rugs.
Knot Count and Durability of Wool Area Rugs
Wool is a fairly bulky material when compared to something like silk, so knot counts typically go up to about 200 knots per square inch. This means that designs can still incorporate complex patterns, though the small details possible with finer materials won’t be present.
Large area rugs made of wool can be used in the high-traffic areas of your home, such as hallways, playrooms or living rooms. The durability of wool is well known in any medium, and rugs are no exception. It’s also much simpler to clean than other handmade rugs, though you still shouldn’t steam clean it or use a carpet cleaner on it. Look for rugs made with 100% wool, as acrylic and wool blends won’t last as long with regular use.
