Is A Cowhide Rug worth it? Yes! Discover Why in Our Ultimate Guide
When it comes to home decor, few items manage to combine luxury, durability, and a touch of rustic quite like cowhide rugs. These beautiful pieces, crafted from real cowhides, bring a unique charm to any room, seamlessly blending traditional and modern aesthetics. For families seeking to create a home that is both stylish and rooted in personal history, cowhide rugs are an exceptional choice. In this guide, we will explore the many aspects of cowhide rugs, from their benefits to practical care tips, helping you determine if they are the right fit for your home.
Is a Cowhide Rug Worth It?
Cowhide rugs offer a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality, making them a worthwhile investment for any home. Here are several reasons why you should consider adding a cowhide rug to your décor
Unique Beauty and Variety:
Each cowhide rug is unique, showcasing natural patterns and colors that vary from one piece to another. This ensures your rug will be a one-of-a-kind addition, adding a personal touch to your home. Whether you prefer the classic black and white of Holstein cowhides or the rich browns and tans of Brazilian and Colombian hides, there is a cowhide rug to suit every style.
Durability and Longevity:
Cowhide rugs are incredibly durable and ideal for high-traffic areas. They resist wear and tear and, with proper care, can last for many years. The natural oils in the hide also make them resistant to dust and dirt, keeping them looking fresh with minimal maintenance.
Hypoallergenic Properties:
For families concerned about allergies, cowhide rugs are an excellent option. Unlike synthetic carpets that can trap allergens, cowhide rugs are hypoallergenic. They do not harbor dust mites or other allergens, making them a healthier choice for your home.
Versatility in Décor:
Cowhide rugs are extremely versatile and can complement various interior design styles. Whether you have a modern minimalist home or a rustic farmhouse, a cowhide rug can add warmth and character to your space. They can be used as area rugs, wall hangings, or even draped over furniture for an added layer of texture
Sustainability:
Our cowhides are crafted in Colombia and Brazil by dedicated artisans who prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. We meticulously hand-select each hides to ensure traceable origins and superior quality. By using raw materials imported from Brazil, we maintain complete control over our production process. This approach allows us to guarantee that our products repurpose waste from the meat industry and that our artisans are fairly compensated for their skilled work in a safe and sustainable environment.
What Happens if a Cowhide Rug Gets Wet?
One common concern with cowhide rugs is how they handle exposure to moisture. It’s important to understand that while cowhide rugs are durable, they are not waterproof. However, with the right care, they can withstand occasional spills and dampness without sustaining damage. The natural oils in cowhide provide some level of resistance to moisture, helping to prevent immediate absorption.
Immediate Action for Spills
If your cowhide rug gets wet, the first step is to blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing the spill, as this can spread the liquid and potentially damage the hair.
Drying the Rug
Once you have blotted up the excess moisture, let the rug air dry naturally. Avoid using heat sources such as hair dryers or radiators, as excessive heat can cause the hide to become stiff and brittle. If the rug is thoroughly soaked, consider laying it flat on a dry, absorbent surface and patting it with towels to remove excess water.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
To prevent mold and mildew, ensure that the rug is completely dry before placing it back in its original location. It might be helpful to move it to a well-ventilated area or even outdoors in the shade to accelerate the drying process.
Waterproofing Treatments
For added protection, you can apply a waterproofing spray designed for leather products. This will provide a barrier against moisture and help preserve the integrity of the rug. However, test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not alter the color or texture of the hide.
Natural Instincts
Now we know that our families have changed and that for many, the children now have four legs, lots of fur, claws, and sharp teeth. But that’s not a problem thanks to the natural resilience of cowhides. In fact, pets often love being in contact with them because of their texture and smell. Some may love it a bit too much, but we'll tell you what you can do to handle those situations where your pet enjoys, explores, and uses the hide in ways you'd prefer they didn’t.
Do Dogs Chew on Cowhide Rugs?
Pets are an integral part of many families, and it's natural to wonder how a cowhide rug will fare in a pet-friendly home. While each pet's behavior is unique, there are some general considerations to keep in mind.
Dogs, especially puppies, have a natural instinct to chew. The texture and smell of a cowhide rug might be appealing to them. To mitigate this, provide your dog with plenty of chew toys and keep an eye on their behavior around the rug.
Training and Supervision
Proper training is crucial. Teach your dog that the rug is off-limits by using positive reinforcement techniques. If you catch them chewing on the rug, redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and reward them when they comply.
Protective Measures
To further protect your rug, consider using deterrent sprays that are safe for pets but unpleasant to taste. These sprays can help discourage your dog from chewing on the rug.
Fortunately, cowhide rugs are quite durable and can withstand some pet activity. However, it’s best to prevent destructive behavior early to maintain the rug’s appearance and longevity.
Is It OK to Vacuum the Cowhide Rug?
Keeping your cowhide rug clean is essential for maintaining its beauty and longevity. Vacuuming is one of the easiest ways to remove dust and debris, but it must be done correctly to avoid damaging the rug.
Regular Vacuuming
Vacuum your cowhide rug regularly using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. This will help remove surface dirt without pulling on the hair. Always vacuum in the direction of the hair to prevent tangling and shedding.
Spot Cleaning
For minor spills and stains, spot cleaning is often sufficient. Use a damp cloth with mild soap and water to gently clean the affected area. Avoid soaking the rug, and always blot rather than rub to prevent spreading the stain.
Deep cleaning a cowhide rug at home can be a straightforward process with a few essential steps. Start by taking the rug outside and shaking it vigorously to remove loose dirt and dust. Next, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently vacuum both sides of the rug, paying special attention to any crevices where dirt might be trapped. For stains, create a cleaning solution by mixing mild soap with lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth with soapy water and gently blot the stained area, being careful not to soak the rug. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaking the rug completely, as this can damage the hide. After treating the stains, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue. Let the rug air dry completely by laying it flat in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight which can cause fading. Once dry, brush the rug gently with a soft-bristle brush to restore its natural texture and sheen. By following these steps, you can maintain the beauty and longevity of your cowhide rug, ensuring it remains a stunning focal point in your home decor.
How to Get Dog Poop Out of a Cowhide Rug?
Accidents happen, especially in homes with pets. If your cowhide rug falls victim to a pet accident, quick and careful cleaning is essential.
Immediate Cleanup
As soon as you notice the mess, remove as much solid waste as possible using a paper towel or plastic bag. Be gentle to avoid pressing the waste into the rug fibers.
Cleaning the Area
Mix a solution of mild soap and water, and use a clean cloth to gently blot the area. Avoid scrubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the hide. Continue blotting with the soapy solution until the stain is lifted.
After cleaning with soap and water, use a damp cloth to remove any soap residue from the rug. Blot the area with a dry towel to absorb excess moisture and allow the rug to air dry completely.
Odor Removal
To tackle any lingering odors, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the affected area once it is dry. Let the baking soda sit for a few hours to absorb any remaining smells, then vacuum it up.
Preventing Future Accidents
To prevent future accidents, consider placing the rug in an area that is less accessible to pets, or use pet training aids to deter them from specific areas. Consistent training and positive reinforcement can also help reduce the likelihood of repeat incidents.
How to Get Rid of Urine Smell in a Cowhide Rug?
Pet urine can be particularly challenging due to its strong odor. Here’s how to effectively remove urine smell from your cowhide rug:
If you catch the accident immediately, blot up as much urine as possible using paper towels or a clean cloth. Press firmly to absorb the liquid but avoid rubbing.
Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Vinegar is excellent for neutralizing odors. Dampen a cloth with this mixture and gently blot the affected area.
Rinsing
After treating with vinegar, use a cloth dampened with plain water to blot the area and remove any remaining vinegar. Once the area is clean, sprinkle baking soda over it. Let the baking soda sit overnight to absorb
So, is it worth having a cowhide at home?
Yes, a thousand times yes! It is an investment that will accompany you for years and allow you to live different moments in your home with those you love – your children, your parents, your friends, and your pets. Think about the playtime afternoons with your pets on the rug, the stories you would share with your friends and loved ones while you tell stories, enjoy a snack, or the adventures you can create with a natural touch inside your home or even a picnic at home with your partner. A cowhide can be the centerpiece not only of the decoration but also of family interactions, of the most special gatherings, allowing you to live and enjoy each moment in a sophisticated and elegant way. That’s why we say it is worth it. Besides its durability, flexibility, beauty, and resistance that will make the hide last for decades, it will also fill your home not only with style but with experiences, and moments, and create memories that will bring everyone at home closer together, making it worth having an authentic cowhide in your home.