When you think of wool, the first thing that may come to mind is cute little sheep. And rightfully so, as most wool has been made from the fleece of sheep for thousands of years.
When you think of wool, the first thing that may come to mind is cute little sheep.
And rightfully so, as most wool has been made from the fleece of sheep for thousands of years. That’s one of the primary reasons it’s the most commonly used natural fiber for making rugs.
Wool is considered a protein fiber–one taken from an animal—which gives it superior absorbency. Its soft touch and resiliency make it comfortable, and it can stretch to around 70% of its natural length and then spring right back into shape. That’s true even after years of wear.
It’s also durable, naturally repelling stains and resisting water as a natural protective outer layer helps prevent stains from being absorbed. Instead, water droplets form on the surface of wool, bead together, and simply roll off.
All of these characteristics make it clear why wool is a superior choice for rugs. But it’s also a smart choice for the well-being of the world.
One of the most amazing and impactful aspects of the fiber is that it’s renewable and biodegradable.
We know how wildlife and the natural world are affected by the pollution of plastics and synthetics, but it only takes a year for a sheep to grow a full coat—which is great news on the sustainability end. Wool can continue to be sourced and turned into products without us having to worry about its effect on the environment.
And wool does need to be thrown away, it’s biodegradable, which means it will break down naturally on its own. It usually takes about six months for wool to degrade, while other synthetic fibers can rake up to 40 years.
A green story and natural capabilities make wool comfortable and stylish, and it’s a wonderful material that is beautiful when used for rugs of all shapes and sizes. And with new rug techniques and technological advancements in wools products, your wool rug will see many years of enjoyment.