Viscose vs Nylon rugs: which is better?
Viscose is very soft and silky with sheen and poor 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
| Viscose | Nylon | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel underfoot | Very soft and silky with sheen | Soft and resilient |
| Durability in traffic | Low; crushes and wears in traffic | Excellent; very resilient synthetic |
| Water and spills | Poor; water marks and weakens it | Good, though some dyes can stain |
| Cleaning | Specialist cleaning recommended | Easy |
| Shedding | Can shed and fuzz | Minimal |
| Fade resistance | Can yellow or fade in strong sun | Moderate to good |
| Typical uses | Low-traffic bedrooms and formal rooms | High-traffic areas, stairs, hallways |
| Origin of fibre | Regenerated cellulose (wood pulp) | Synthetic (polyamide) |
About viscose
Viscose is a regenerated cellulose fibre with a silky sheen, sometimes sold as art silk. It looks luxurious and feels smooth, but it is delicate: water can cause marks and the pile can crush or flatten. Viscose rugs are best in low-traffic rooms such as bedrooms and formal lounges, and need specialist cleaning.
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 viscose for low-traffic bedrooms and formal rooms, and nylon for high-traffic areas, stairs, hallways. For busy, spill-prone areas the fibre with better water resistance (nylon) is usually the more practical choice. For comfort in low-traffic rooms, prioritise feel underfoot.
What we stock
We currently list 2 rugs in viscose and 0 in nylon. We do not currently stock nylon rugs; the comparison is offered as general buying advice.
Blade Border Rug in Putty & CharcoalViscose · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Blade Border Rug in Putty & SilverViscose · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Frequently asked questions
Is viscose or nylon better for a rug?
Neither is better for every room. Viscose suits low-traffic bedrooms and formal rooms; Nylon suits high-traffic areas, stairs, hallways.
Which is softer, viscose or nylon?
Viscose feels very soft and silky with sheen; Nylon feels soft and resilient.
Which is easier to clean, viscose or nylon?
Viscose: Specialist cleaning recommended. Nylon: Easy.
Which lasts longer, viscose or nylon?
Viscose: Low; crushes and wears in 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.