Wool vs Recycled polyester rugs: which is better?
Wool is springy, warm, substantial and absorbs liquid 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
| Wool | Recycled polyester | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel underfoot | Springy, warm, substantial | Soft, similar to polyester |
| Durability in traffic | Excellent; fibres recover from crushing | Good; pile can flatten in heavy traffic |
| Water and spills | Absorbs liquid; blot quickly | Good for water-based spills |
| Cleaning | Wool-safe, pH-neutral products; professional deep clean | Easy; some are washable |
| Shedding | Sheds for the first few weeks | Minimal |
| Fade resistance | Good, but can fade in strong sun | Good |
| Typical uses | Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways | Living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes |
| Origin of fibre | Natural animal fibre (sheep fleece) | Synthetic, recycled (usually PET bottles) |
About wool
Wool is naturally resilient: the fibres spring back after being walked on, and their natural lanolin helps them resist soiling. It is warm underfoot, naturally flame-resistant and feels substantial. New wool rugs normally shed loose fibres for the first few weeks, which regular vacuuming removes. Wool absorbs liquid, so spills should be blotted quickly.
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 wool for living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, 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 52 rugs in wool and 24 in recycled polyester.
Barnaby Wool Rug in GraphiteWool · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Barnaby Wool Rug in SageWool · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Barnaby Wool Rug in SandWool · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Barnaby Wool Rug in SilverWool · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
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 wool or recycled polyester better for a rug?
Neither is better for every room. Wool suits living rooms, bedrooms, hallways; Recycled polyester suits living rooms, bedrooms, eco-minded homes.
Which is softer, wool or recycled polyester?
Wool feels springy, warm, substantial; Recycled polyester feels soft, similar to polyester.
Which is easier to clean, wool or recycled polyester?
Wool: Wool-safe, pH-neutral products; professional deep clean. Recycled polyester: Easy; some are washable.
Which lasts longer, wool or recycled polyester?
Wool: Excellent; fibres recover from crushing. 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.