Step into comfort | 5 non-toxic rugs for a healthier home
Our homes are meant to be our sanctuaries, places of comfort and refuge where we can unwind and recharge. However, have you ever stopped to consider the hidden toxins lurking beneath your feet?
Traditional rugs, often overlooked in the pursuit of a cozy ambiance, can release harmful chemicals into the air we breathe, compromising our health and the well-being of our loved ones. That's where the power of nontoxic rugs comes into play. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of knowing what non-toxic area rugs are and why they deserve a prominent place in our lives.
Table of contents:
What's Toxic About Most Rugs?
Here are some common toxic elements found in traditional rugs:
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Synthetic rugs often release VOCs. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can contribute to indoor air pollution, leading to respiratory issues and allergies.
Flame Retardants: These chemicals, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), have been linked to various health concerns, including hormone disruption and neurotoxicity.
Petrochemicals: Synthetic materials like acrylic, are derived from non-renewable resources and go through chemical-intensive manufacturing processes, contributing to environmental degradation.
Pesticides and Herbicides: Some natural fiber rugs, such as cotton, may be treated with pesticides and herbicides during cultivation which can have adverse health effects on agricultural workers and contaminate nearby ecosystems.
Allergens and Irritants: Rugs can harbor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in sensitive individuals.
What Are Natural, Organic Rugs?
Natural, organic rugs, just like a nontoxic pillow, are floor coverings made from materials that are derived from nature and produced without the use of synthetic chemicals or artificial substances. These rugs are typically crafted from renewable and sustainable sources such as organic cotton, jute, sisal, wool, bamboo, or hemp fibers.
They are manufactured using environmentally friendly processes that minimize the use of harmful dyes, pesticides, and toxins, making them a healthier and more eco-friendly choice. Natural, organic rugs offer a connection to nature and can contribute to a cleaner and greener living environment while providing a warm and inviting aesthetic to any space.
5 Brands That Make Non-Toxic Rugs
Knowing non-toxic rug brands is important because it allows us to make informed purchasing decisions that align with our health and environmental values.
Non-toxic rug brands prioritize the use of natural and sustainable materials, avoiding harmful chemicals and synthetic treatments for people who want to know how to avoid microplastics. Here, we`ll identify 5 brands that make non-toxic rugs.
1- The Citizenry
Material: 100% New Zealand wool, natural jute fiber, and cotton
Price range: started at $279 for a 4' round rug
The Citizenry is a brand that offers artisan-made patterned rugs, and they prioritize using non-toxic materials in their products. The rugs are crafted using Oeko-Tex® certified materials, which ensures that the textiles are free from harmful substances.
The Citizenry is known for its commitment to ethical practices and its support of artisans worldwide, providing fair wages, sustaining grants, and safe working conditions to its partners.
2- Armadillo
Material: jute, wool, silk, cotton, linen, recycled felt, and natural fibers
Price range: start at $130 for a 2' x 3'3" size rug
The Armadillo brand specializes in non toxic area rugs, offering a range of exquisite handwoven options. They are known for their Indo Nepali hand-knotted Tibetan weave styles. Armadillo is a B Corp, demonstrating their commitment to ethical production practices.
They work with fairly paid artisans who utilize traditional techniques to create their timeless rugs. Their focus on slow production ensures quality craftsmanship, and they prioritize sustainability by using materials like jute and recycled felt.
The brand's Mojave collection, inspired by desert landscapes, features 100% jute rugs with a meticulously handspun pile, resulting in a unique variegated finish.
3- Cold Picnic
Material: New Zealand ethical wool, bamboo silk, or hemp
Price range: $150 to $1,950
The Cold Picnic brand offers a range of non toxic rugs with colorful and whimsical designs. They also provide other home textiles such as throw pillows and blankets. Cold Picnic prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices in their rug production.
Cold Picnic also embraces green business practices. They manufacture their rugs using 100% solar power and reuse packaging from rug transport to minimize emissions. Compostable-packaged bath mats are part of their sustainability efforts.
4- Loomy
Material: New Zealand wool, jute, sisal, hemp fabric, viscose, banana silk, and even upcycled plastic bottles
Price range: $348 to $10,500
The Loomy brand specializes in non toxic area rugs and offers a wide range of options for different needs and preferences. They have natural rugs, performance rugs, pet-friendly rugs, indoor/outdoor rugs, vegan rugs, vintage rugs, and nursery rugs that are all non-toxic.
Loomy prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices in their rug production. They use a variety of materials, all of which are OEKO-TEX certified. The dyes used in their rugs are low impact, further contributing to their non-toxic nature.
5- Kilim
Material: wool, Egyptian cotton, and jute
Price range: $79 to $4,950
The Kilim brand is a Cairo, Egypt-based social enterprise that focuses on non toxic rugs. It partnered with the town of Fowa, which was once known for its kilim weaving industry but experienced a decline due to cheaper machine manufacturing.
Kilim's mission is to revive hand weaving in Fowa and bring back authentic craftsmanship through their fashion, furniture, and home decor products. In terms of supply chain and labor practices, every Kilim rug is handcrafted and flatwoven in Fowa, Egypt. This supports Egyptian cultural heritage and provides fair wages to local artisans who create the rugs.
What Are the Benefits of Non Toxic Rugs?
Non-toxic rugs offer several benefits compared to conventional rugs that may contain synthetic materials and chemical treatments. Here are some of the key advantages of non toxic rugs:
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Non toxic rugs are free from harmful chemicals. This helps to maintain better indoor air quality by reducing the release of toxic fumes and allergens into the air.
Healthier Living Environment: They are less likely to trigger allergies, respiratory issues, or skin irritations. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitivities, asthma, or chemical sensitivities.
Environmental Sustainability: Non toxic rugs are made from materials such as organic cotton, wool, jute, or hemp. They are manufactured using eco-friendly processes that minimize carbon footprint.
Durable and Long-lasting: Natural fibers known for their durability, such as wool and sisal. These rugs tend to be resilient, long-lasting, and resistant to wear and tear.
Aesthetically Pleasing: Non toxic area rugs come in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures, offering a diverse selection to suit various interior design preferences.
What Materials Are Used to Make Eco Friendly Rugs?
Some common materials used to make eco-friendly rugs include:
Organic Cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It is a renewable and biodegradable material that is also used in eco friendly fashion brands.
Wool: It is a sustainable material that can be harvested without harming the animals. Wool rugs are known for their durability, softness, and natural resistance to stains and dirt.
Jute: It is a renewable resource that requires minimal water and chemical inputs during cultivation. Jute rugs are known for their natural texture and earthy appearance.
Sisal: These fibers are strong, durable, biodegradable, and also used for natural fiber clothing. Sisal rugs are popular for their natural, rustic look and are often used in high-traffic areas.
Bamboo: Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that can be harvested sustainably. It is a versatile material used in the production of rugs. Bamboo rugs are known for their strength, moisture resistance, and natural beauty. you can also find this material in bamboo socks or comfortable bamboo pajamas.
Hemp: Hemp is a highly sustainable crop that requires minimal water and pesticides to grow. Hemp rugs are durable, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable.
Recycled Materials: Some eco-friendly rugs are made from recycled materials such as recycled plastic bottles (PET) or recycled textiles. These materials help reduce waste and promote a circular economy.
How to Know If a Rug Is Nontoxic?
To determine if a rug is non-toxic, first, check the product label or description for any certifications or eco-friendly labels indicating that the rug meets specific non-toxic standards. Look for certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or Oeko-Tex Standard 100.
Additionally, research the manufacturer's reputation and their commitment to producing non-toxic products. Read customer reviews and testimonials to gather information about the rug's safety and any potential chemical odors or irritants.
Finally, contact the manufacturer directly if you have any specific concerns or questions about the rug's non-toxicity. In this way, you can say hello to a more sustainable life.
How to Clean Your Non Toxic Rug?
Cleaning a non-toxic rug involves using gentle and natural cleaning methods to maintain its integrity and minimize exposure to chemicals. Here's a guide on how to clean your non-toxic rug:
Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your rug regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a canister vacuum set to a low suction setting to avoid damaging the fibers.
Spot Cleaning: For small spills or stains, attend to them promptly with a clean cloth or paper towel. Blot the affected area gently to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as it may cause the stain to spread or damage the fibers.
Deep Cleaning: Some non toxic rugs can be hand-washed or machine-washed following specific instructions. For others, it's recommended to hire professional rug cleaners.
Note: Make sure professional rug cleaners use eco-friendly cleaning products and methods. Avoid steam cleaning, as excessive moisture can damage natural fibers.
Drying: After cleaning, ensure the rug is thoroughly dried to prevent mold or mildew growth. Hang it outdoors in a shaded area or lay it flat on a clean surface. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may cause fading or discoloration.
Preventive Maintenance: Place doormats at entryways to reduce the amount of dirt and debris brought onto the rug. Rotate the rug occasionally to distribute foot traffic. Avoid placing heavy furniture directly on the rug to prevent indentations.
Conclusion
Choosing non toxic rugs for your home or workspace is a smart and responsible decision. These rugs offer numerous benefits, including improved indoor air quality, a healthier living environment, and reduced environmental impact. By opting for rugs made from natural and sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, wool, jute, or bamboo, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are creating a safer and more eco-friendly space.
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