Recycled polyester vs Acrylic rugs: which is better?
Recycled polyester is soft, similar to polyester and good for water-based spills with water; Acrylic is soft, wool-like and fairly resistant. Here is how the two fibres compare for feel, durability, cleaning and where to use them.
At a glance
| Recycled polyester | Acrylic | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel underfoot | Soft, similar to polyester | Soft, wool-like |
| Durability in traffic | Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic | Moderate; can pill |
| Water and spills | Good for water-based spills | Fairly resistant |
| Cleaning | Easy; some are washable | Easy; mild detergent |
| Shedding | Minimal | Can pill and fuzz |
| Fade resistance | Good | Good |
| Typical uses | Living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes | Bedrooms, budget wool alternative |
| Origin of fibre | Synthetic, recycled (usually PET bottles) | Synthetic |
About recycled polyester
Recycled polyester rugs are made from yarn spun from recycled plastic, typically PET bottles, giving waste plastic a second use. They behave much like standard polyester: soft, colourfast and resistant to water-based spills. Some designs carry certification, which is listed on the product page where it applies.
About acrylic
Acrylic: soft, wool-like underfoot, moderate; can pill in traffic, and typically used in bedrooms, budget wool alternative. Cleaning: easy; mild detergent.
Which should you choose?
Choose recycled polyester for living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes, and acrylic for bedrooms, budget wool alternative. For busy, spill-prone areas the fibre with better water resistance (recycled polyester) is usually the more practical choice. For comfort in low-traffic rooms, prioritise feel underfoot.
What we stock
We currently list 24 rugs in recycled polyester and 0 in acrylic. We do not currently stock acrylic rugs; the comparison is offered as general buying advice.
Grayson Outdoor Rug in CreamRecycled polyester · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Grayson Outdoor Rug in GreyRecycled polyester · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Grayson Outdoor Rug in TaupeRecycled polyester · 200 x 290 cm
Opulence Shaggy Rug in Ivory CreamRecycled polyester · 80 x 150 cm, 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Frequently asked questions
Is recycled polyester or acrylic better for a rug?
Neither is better for every room. Recycled polyester suits living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes; Acrylic suits bedrooms, budget wool alternative.
Which is softer, recycled polyester or acrylic?
Recycled polyester feels soft, similar to polyester; Acrylic feels soft, wool-like.
Which is easier to clean, recycled polyester or acrylic?
Recycled polyester: Easy; some are washable. Acrylic: Easy; mild detergent.
Which lasts longer, recycled polyester or acrylic?
Recycled polyester: Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic. Acrylic: Moderate; can pill.
Related pages
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.