What Can I Use Instead Of A Rug? (Stunning Alternatives)
Rugs have been around for decades and have proven to be reliable in making the room cozier, lowering noise, keeping the room warm, protecting the room from damage, and complementing the room’s design. But traditional rugs are very expensive and quite challenging to clean. They are also not as stylish and attractive as they used to be. Moreso, normal rugs are made from the same typical material as every other decor accessory. This begs the question: What can I use instead of a rug?
There are a number of different alternatives you can use instead of a rug and they are as follows;
- Bamboo
- Coir
- Blankets
- Hemp rug
- Vinyl floor mat
- Jute
- Sea grass
Not only are these normal rug alternatives super attractive, but they are also quite affordable, easy to clean, long-lasting, and flexible.
These are attributes that go a long way toward making your home decor feel pleasant and classy.
So, if you are sick and tired of using the same old rugs everyone else does, then I suggest that you read on because I’m going to share more interesting details about these rug alternatives for your home.
Table of Contents
7 Beautiful Alternatives To Rugs For Your Home
1. Bamboo
One of the best alternatives to rugs is bamboo. This natural material is strong, highly durable, and performs incredibly well in high-traffic areas.
Bamboo is also easy to clean, attractive, and stylish. If you want to add style and personality to the room, then this is the perfect choice for you. This environmentally friendly material is unique and elegant, and it will complement your room’s decor.
Unlike rugs that are difficult to clean, bamboo is incredibly easy to clean and requires low maintenance.
They are also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people with allergies.
Bamboo features:
- Require low maintenance.
- Mold and mildew resistant.
- Attractive and stylish.
- Sturdy and durable.
- Hypoallergenic.
2. Coir
Coir is a natural material that is obtained from the husk of the coconut.
It is 100% natural and thus ideal for people who are looking for a rug alternative that is eco-friendly and durable.
Coir is incredibly strong and durable, can last for an extended period, and is well maintained.
It also comes in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and colors, meaning you can choose one that suits your taste and preference.
Coir features:
- Environmentally friendly (made from coconut husks).
- Resistant to mold and mildews.
- Require low maintenance.
- Easy to clean.
- High abrasion resistant.
- Available in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes.
3. Blankets
Blankets are a very good alternative to rugs, thanks to their stylish design, comfort, and durability.
Their soft and cozy feel will make you not want to step out of the room.
Like rugs, blankets are also available in a wide variety of colors, styles, and designs that suit your personality and preferences.
They are also widely available in both online and physical stores. If you want an eco-friendly blanket, then an upcycled blanket is a great choice for you because they are made from recycled material.
Upcycled blankets are also unique, stylish, and durable.
Blankets are indeed a great alternative to rugs, especially for people who are looking for a cheaper but more durable option.
Blanket features:
- They are very affordable.
- Soft and comfortable.
- Available in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and styles.
- Durable.
- Easy to find.
- Many patterns, colors, textures, and sizes available in most stores.
- Extremely warming and easy to store.
4. Hemp rug
The popularity of hemp rugs has increased tremendously over the years because they have proven to be a great alternative to traditional rugs.
They are environmentally friendly and can last for a long time if given proper care. Hemp is also available in a wide variety of colors, designs, and patterns and will thus complement the overall design of the room.
They are also hypoallergenic. For those with allergies, this is a great option because it is mold and mildew resistant.
If you are looking for a rug alternative that will make your room look stylish and unique, then you won’t go wrong if you choose a hemp rug.
Hemp rug features:
- It is eco friendly.
- Stylish and trendy.
- Durable.
- Easy to clean.
5. Vinyl floor mat
Vinyl floor mats are stylish and a great choice for people who are looking for a rug alternative that will complement the overall look of the room.
Vinyl floor mats are made of durable material that can withstand rough handling, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
They are also very easy to clean and install.
In addition to that, vinyl floor mats come in a wide variety of styles, designs, and colors, meaning you will easily find one that suits your personal preference.
Vinyl floor mat features:
- Very easy to clean.
- Very affordable.
- Can match when placed in any room of the house.
- Available in different styles, colors, and designs.
- They are long-lasting.
- Not prone to sun damage or stains.
6. Jute
Up until my late 20s, I don’t think I ever heard of the word “jute” until I stumbled upon a home decor store that stocked these beautifully natural rugs in their living room section.
Jute, as it turns out, is made from the jute plant, which is predominantly found in Bangladesh and India.
Essentially, the plant’s bark is stripped and then air or sun dried before it is woven into rugs.
Jute rugs are usually a rich, golden color and are considered one of the most environmentally friendly rugs on the market. They are quite durable and can last for many years without any sign of damage or wear.
Ironically, despite being tough and cultivated from the bark of a jute plant, it is quite soft to the touch, making it a beautiful alternative to a rug. When it comes to cleaning, you shouldn’t submerge it in water. Instead, just vacuum it on the lowest setting at least once or twice per week, depending on the traffic in your home.
Jute rug features:
- Environmentally friendly.
- Durable and tough.
- Soft and comfortable.
- Rich golden color.
- Affordable and long lasting.
- Versatile and flexible.
- Breathable and can be vacuum cleaned.
- Heat insulation.
7. Sea Grass
In saltwater marshes, dried sedge plants are used to make the natural fibers that create seagrass rugs.
Ironically, these fibers or plants are neither from the sea nor are they considered grass.
What I particularly like about sea grass mats is their affordability and texture. They’re environmentally friendly while being at least 30 to 50% cheaper than heavily processed materials used for other types of rugs and mats.
Because they’re made from a type of grass, these rugs are naturally moisture-resistant, which is always an added bonus.
I love the appearance of seagrass rugs, especially how they’re woven together in such a beautiful pattern.
Sea grass benefits:
- Environmentally friendly.
- Affordable and 30 to 50% cheaper than heavily processed alternatives.
- Easy to clean with a vacuum.
- Moisture resistant properties.
- They feel soft and smooth.
- Flexible and durable at the same time.
- Doesn’t mark or stain easily.
Final Thoughts
If you are tired of your old boring area rugs and you’re looking for an alternative that is stylish and more attractive to enhance the room décor, then we recommend that you choose from the list given above.
Besides being unique, stylish, and trendy, they are also durable, affordable, and easy to clean and maintain.
Personally, I love bamboo jute rugs because of how versatile and durable they are. Plus, their earthy color adds warmth and a homey vibe to any room.
With that being said, I hope you found this article on what to use instead of a rug to be helpful and informative. If you’re still interested in getting a rug, then I think you’ll thoroughly enjoy reading the following articles linked below:
1. Is it a good idea to put a rug under a bed?
