How Long Do Jute Rugs Last? Tips to Increase Your Rug’s Lifespan
If you are drawn to natural design elements and eco-friendly decor, then you have surely come across the material jute. Made from vegetable strands of jute plants that have been spun together, this natural fiber is used to make burlap, curtains, and, of course, rugs.
However, it's important to note that while also used to make rougher fabric, jute rugs are incredibly soft and stylish. They are also very durable. But you may be wondering: just how long do jute rugs last? We’ll explore the longevity of this natural fiber rug, along with tips on how to maintain it for the long term.
How long do jute rugs last?
If you are looking to invest in a jute rug for your home, it’s beneficial to understand the lifecycle of these floor coverings. The answer isn’t completely straightforward. The lifespan of a jute rug depends on the quality of the material and the care it receives.
High-quality jute rugs can last about five to ten years, and perhaps even longer with proper care. It all comes down to how you use and maintain your jute rug.
Factors affecting durability
While jute rugs can generally last around half a decade, certain scenarios can accelerate the aging process of this natural fiber. Here are some tips on what to avoid.
Moisture
Even though jute is grown in a humid environment, the fibers don’t play well with moisture. While jute adds natural beauty to any space, when the fibers are wet, they are more susceptible to wear and tear than when they are dry. For this reason, you’ll want to hold back on using jute in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoors, and other settings that are regularly exposed to water. If you have your heart set on using a jute rug outside, be sure to place it in a covered area..
Heavy foot traffic
While jute is a strong and durable material, it is best suited for areas of light and medium traffic. The natural fibers of wool do not have as much elasticity as wool, for example. This means that over time, rather than stretching out with use, the fibers can fray or tear. Jute rugs will have more longevity if used in bedrooms, living rooms, or other places in the home that aren’t high-traffic areas.
Poor quality jute rugs
Not all jute rugs are created equal. For a long-lasting jute covering for your floors, go with a handmade rug. When made by hand, these natural fiber rugs have a tighter weave, which lends them more structural integrity. The extra care during construction ensures that a handmade jute rug will last longer than a machine-made one.
Jute rug care and maintenance
Aside from avoiding the above stressors, proper care and maintenance will help you prolong the lifespan of your jute rug. Here are some simple things you can do to keep your jute rug looking fresh as ever.
Cleaning
Jute rugs are relatively easy to clean. For small spills, you can spot-clean by using a dry towel and blotting until the moisture is absorbed. Apply club soda to anything that stains dark, like tomato sauce or red wine. If the stain doesn’t disappear, try blotting it with a damp towel and a little bit of mild soap. You can also use a rug spot cleaner for those peskier stains.
Jute rugs also benefit from regular vacuuming. You’ll just want to use the vacuum on a low setting, suction only. Do not use a beater bar, as it can damage the rug. Vacuuming with the grain of the weave will prevent unnecessary fraying.
Rotate your rug
Rotating your jute rug is a small action that has a big impact. By changing the positioning of your rug on the floor, you avoid only one part of your rug getting worn down. Rug rotation helps balance out foot traffic, allowing the rug to age evenly across its entire surface. We recommend rotating once a quarter.
Use rug pads
Get double the benefits when you use a rug pad with your jute rug. Not only does it protect your rug, but it also protects your floor. Rug pads provide extra cushion and shock absorption for your jute rug, keeping it looking new longer. They also secure your rugs to the floor, keeping them from slipping underfoot while preventing the rug from scratching the surface below.
When to replace a jute rug
Even with the best of care, there will come a day when you need to replace your jute rug. Some signs of excessive usage include stains that won’t come off, binding that has come loose, edges that won’t lie flat, or the rug developing an odor. Any signs of mold or mildew are also indicators to replace your rug.
Jute rugs built to last
Now that we have answered the question of how long do jute rugs last, you can purchase your next natural fiber rug with confidence. Again, the average lifespan of a jute rug is approximately five years, but with proper care and maintenance, it can be extended beyond this timeframe. The trick is to start with a high-quality, handmade rug.
We’ve got plenty in our catalogue, so start looking through our jute rug options today!
