Synthetic Rugs vs Cowhide Rugs: Which Is More Durable?

Choosing a carpet or rug for your home is not an easy task. Not only do you want your carpet to be a key décor piece, but you also want it to last. Rugs aren't cheap, so take time in choosing the right one for you. Will you go with a synthetic rug or a more natural rug like a natural cowhide rug? Let’s look at the pros and cons of each.

Pros of Synthetic Rugs

On advantage of synthetic rugs is that they come in many styles and designs. It can also be easier to find the right shape and size of synthetic carpeting to fit a certain space. If you're trying to fully cover a room, or if you need a very specific rug shape and size, synthetic materials may be a better choice for you. 

Additionally, some synthetic rugs clean better than natural cowhide rugs because they can be submerged in water. You can also find materials that are mold resistant, making synthetic rugs a good choice for spaces in your home that are likely to get wet.

Cons of Synthetic Rugs

The most common complaint about synthetic rugs is that they show their age. Many man-made rugs resist stains poorly, show scuffs and abrasions, and wear down over time. Having your rug regularly cleaned by a professional company can extend its life. But when all is said and done, rugs and carpets in heavy traffic areas will always show some wear as they age.

Pros of Natural Cowhide Rugs

A major advantage of natural cowhide rugs is that they are more durable than synthetic rugs. Whereas synthetic rugs have tiny holes throughout them, cowhide rugs are one solid piece. This means they do not get damaged as easily as synthetic rugs. In addition, the hair of the cowhide lies flat, so the rug is less likely to get caught on something or tear. Another pro of cowhide rugs is that they are easy to protect. Cowhide is naturally more stain resistant than man-made materials. You can even treat them with a stain guard to make it even easier to clean up spills.

Cons of Natural Cowhide Rugs

Although cowhide rugs are highly durable, there are some steps you must take to protect your rug. You cannot use chemicals on these rugs because it will damage them. You also cannot drench your hides in water, making them a bad choice for areas like bathrooms. Additionally, some poor quality cowhide rugs can have a strange scent. However, as long as you get your cowhide rug from a reputable seller like eCowhides.com, odor shouldn’t be a problem.

Now that you've read through these pros and cons, you should have a better idea of which type of rug is best for you. Synthetic rugs can be good for specific spaces, but they require more care to keep them looking nice. Cowhide rugs are highly durable and can stand up to heavy traffic and spills. They also feel great under your feet and can bring a unique touch to any space. If you're looking for quality natural cowhide rugs, check out the options at eCowhides.com today!