Jute vs Seagrass rugs: which is better?

Jute is coarse, textured, firm and poor with water; Seagrass is smooth, firm, slightly slippery and fairly water resistant for a natural fibre. Here is how the two fibres compare for feel, durability, cleaning and where to use them.

At a glance

JuteSeagrass
Feel underfootCoarse, textured, firmSmooth, firm, slightly slippery
Durability in trafficGood in dry areasGood
Water and spillsPoor; water can brown and weaken itFairly water resistant for a natural fibre
CleaningVacuum and dry-clean spots; minimal waterVacuum; wipe spills
SheddingCan shed small fibres, especially when newLow
Fade resistanceNatural colour can lighten in sunAges to a warmer tone
Typical usesLiving and dining rooms, layeringLiving rooms, dining rooms
Origin of fibreNatural plant fibre (jute plant)Natural plant fibre (grown in water)

About jute

Jute is a plant fibre with a coarse, textured feel and a warm natural colour. It is a renewable material and adds relaxed texture to living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. Jute does not like water: wet cleaning can cause staining and browning, so spills should be blotted and treated with minimal moisture. It is best kept away from bathrooms and damp areas.

About seagrass

Seagrass: smooth, firm, slightly slippery underfoot, good in traffic, and typically used in living rooms, dining rooms. Cleaning: vacuum; wipe spills.

Which should you choose?

Choose jute for living and dining rooms, layering, and seagrass for living rooms, dining rooms. For busy, spill-prone areas the fibre with better water resistance (seagrass) is usually the more practical choice. For comfort in low-traffic rooms, prioritise feel underfoot.

What we stock

We currently list 41 rugs in jute and 0 in seagrass. We do not currently stock seagrass rugs; the comparison is offered as general buying advice.

Frequently asked questions

Is jute or seagrass better for a rug?

Neither is better for every room. Jute suits living and dining rooms, layering; Seagrass suits living rooms, dining rooms.

Which is softer, jute or seagrass?

Jute feels coarse, textured, firm; Seagrass feels smooth, firm, slightly slippery.

Which is easier to clean, jute or seagrass?

Jute: Vacuum and dry-clean spots; minimal water. Seagrass: Vacuum; wipe spills.

Which lasts longer, jute or seagrass?

Jute: Good in dry areas. Seagrass: Good.

Prices, stock and exact specifications change, so always check the product page before you order: every product page lists the maker's size, material, construction and care details. Delivery is free and tracked to England, Wales and mainland Scotland, and you have 14 days to change your mind. See delivery and returns.