Recycled polyester vs Nylon rugs: which is better?
Recycled polyester is soft, similar to polyester and good for water-based spills with water; Nylon is soft and resilient and good, though some dyes can stain. Here is how the two fibres compare for feel, durability, cleaning and where to use them.
At a glance
| Recycled polyester | Nylon | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel underfoot | Soft, similar to polyester | Soft and resilient |
| Durability in traffic | Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic | Excellent; very resilient synthetic |
| Water and spills | Good for water-based spills | Good, though some dyes can stain |
| Cleaning | Easy; some are washable | Easy |
| Shedding | Minimal | Minimal |
| Fade resistance | Good | Moderate to good |
| Typical uses | Living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes | High-traffic areas, stairs, hallways |
| Origin of fibre | Synthetic, recycled (usually PET bottles) | Synthetic (polyamide) |
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 nylon
Nylon: soft and resilient underfoot, excellent; very resilient synthetic in traffic, and typically used in high-traffic areas, stairs, hallways. Cleaning: easy.
Which should you choose?
Choose recycled polyester for living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes, and nylon for high-traffic areas, stairs, hallways. 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 nylon. We do not currently stock nylon 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 nylon better for a rug?
Neither is better for every room. Recycled polyester suits living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes; Nylon suits high-traffic areas, stairs, hallways.
Which is softer, recycled polyester or nylon?
Recycled polyester feels soft, similar to polyester; Nylon feels soft and resilient.
Which is easier to clean, recycled polyester or nylon?
Recycled polyester: Easy; some are washable. Nylon: Easy.
Which lasts longer, recycled polyester or nylon?
Recycled polyester: Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic. Nylon: Excellent; very resilient synthetic.
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.