Seagrass vs Recycled polyester rugs: which is better?
Seagrass is smooth, firm, slightly slippery and fairly water resistant for a natural fibre with water; Recycled polyester is soft, similar to polyester and good for water-based spills. Here is how the two fibres compare for feel, durability, cleaning and where to use them.
At a glance
| Seagrass | Recycled polyester | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel underfoot | Smooth, firm, slightly slippery | Soft, similar to polyester |
| Durability in traffic | Good | Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic |
| Water and spills | Fairly water resistant for a natural fibre | Good for water-based spills |
| Cleaning | Vacuum; wipe spills | Easy; some are washable |
| Shedding | Low | Minimal |
| Fade resistance | Ages to a warmer tone | Good |
| Typical uses | Living rooms, dining rooms | Living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes |
| Origin of fibre | Natural plant fibre (grown in water) | Synthetic, recycled (usually PET bottles) |
About seagrass
Seagrass: smooth, firm, slightly slippery underfoot, good in traffic, and typically used in living rooms, dining rooms. Cleaning: vacuum; wipe spills.
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.
Which should you choose?
Choose seagrass for living rooms, dining rooms, and recycled polyester for living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes. 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 0 rugs in seagrass and 24 in recycled polyester. We do not currently stock seagrass 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 seagrass or recycled polyester better for a rug?
Neither is better for every room. Seagrass suits living rooms, dining rooms; Recycled polyester suits living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes.
Which is softer, seagrass or recycled polyester?
Seagrass feels smooth, firm, slightly slippery; Recycled polyester feels soft, similar to polyester.
Which is easier to clean, seagrass or recycled polyester?
Seagrass: Vacuum; wipe spills. Recycled polyester: Easy; some are washable.
Which lasts longer, seagrass or recycled polyester?
Seagrass: Good. Recycled polyester: Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic.
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.