The Path to a Safer Home: Best Sustainable and Non-Toxic Rugs for Your Space

Welcome, everyone, to your first step on the path to a safer and healthier home! One crucial detail many overlook is the choice of rugs. Most conventional rugs are made from synthetic materials and often carry a cocktail of harmful chemicals and toxic dyes. However, a growing number of homeowners are turning towards non-toxic rugs made from natural fibers for a healthier living space.

In the journey ahead, we're also going to introduce you to some stellar brands that have gone the extra mile to ensure their rugs are non-toxic and sustainable. So get ready to bring a breath of fresh air to your home with the best non-toxic rugs! Let's make our homes not just visually pleasing, but also safer and healthier for us and our loved ones.

What are Non-Toxic Rugs?

Non-toxic rugs refer to rugs made from natural materials such as wool, cotton, natural latex, or hemp without the use of harsh chemicals, toxic dyes, flame retardant chemicals, or synthetic substances. Jute rugs are also generally considered safe, especially when compared to synthetic rugs.

These rugs are often colored using natural dyes or vegetable dyes, providing a safer option for homes. Moreover, these rugs can also be functional and easy to maintain, just like our favorite machine-washable rugs.

Common Toxic Substances in Traditional Rugs

Traditional rugs, particularly synthetic rugs, and carpets, often contain various toxic substances, including flame retardants, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and other chemicals used in their production and finishing processes.

Polypropylene rugs are a popular choice due to their affordability and durability. They often carry these harmful substances. During the manufacturing process of a polypropylene rug, some harsh chemicals and additives might be used, which can potentially be released into the environment over time. 

Certifications to Look For in a Non-Toxic Rug

When shopping for non-toxic rugs, it's essential to look for certain certifications that guarantee the absence of harmful substances. One such certification is the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification, which ensures the organic status of textiles, from harvesting raw materials to socially responsible manufacturing.

Advantages of Non-Toxic Rugs

Hey, guess what? Choosing non-toxic rugs, especially wool or cotton rugs can do wonders for your home and the environment. They're like the superheroes of home decor, keeping your space safer and healthier.

Now, let's talk about traditional rugs made from synthetic materials like polypropylene. They can sometimes be the villains of the piece, releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other not-so-friendly chemicals into your home, muddling up the freshness of your space. But, here's the good news! Non-toxic rugs play the part of the hero, keeping these nasty substances at bay, and letting you maintain a healthier environment in your home.

Another significant advantage of non-toxic rugs is their environmental sustainability. These natural rugs are typically made from renewable resources like wool, jute, or organic cotton, reducing dependency on non-renewable synthetic materials. Furthermore, non-toxic rugs are often biodegradable, contributing less waste to landfills compared to their synthetic counterparts.

Non-toxic rugs also promote healthier living spaces through the absence of potentially hazardous substances like toxic dyes, flame retardant chemicals, and synthetic rubber. For instance, non-toxic nursery rugs made from natural fibers offer a safer play area for children, protecting them from exposure to these harmful substances.

Lastly, non-toxic rugs, such as GOTS-certified organic rugs, support ethical consumerism. By choosing such rugs, consumers can support businesses that prioritize sustainable practices, from the harvesting of raw materials to manufacturing processes, ensuring social responsibility and fair trade.

In essence, choosing non-toxic rugs offers benefits beyond aesthetic appeal. It's an investment in your health, a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle, and a vote for ethical consumer practices.

Top Natural Non-Toxic Rugs

Welcome to a healthier living space with our top picks for natural non-toxic rugs! These selections, made from materials like GOTS-certified organic cotton, offer the peace of mind of using chemical-free rugs. So, join us as we explore these fantastic options that blend style, sustainability, and safety for your home.

Rawganique

Established in 1995 by two homesteaders, Thamm and Qeanu, Rawganique finds its roots in Blaine, Washington State. Being a mindful buyer, I continuously look for goods that resonate with my environment-friendly and health-centric way of life. My search for non-toxic rugs led me to Rawganique, and I must say, I couldn't be more pleased with their offerings.

Despite being a small-scale organization, Rawganique exhibits immense dedication to crafting eco-friendly, ethical, and non-toxic hemp mix rugs. Each rug is a testament to the brand's commitment to handcrafting, and you can truly see the attention to detail that goes into every piece.

I was particularly impressed with the MALIBU Organic Hemp Wool Rug, which exuded a unique charm and quality. The blend of organic hemp and wool lends a luxurious feel and adds a cozy and warm aesthetic to my living room. Similarly, from our research we found that the RENOIR Organic Cotton + Hemp Rug and the HOMESTEAD Organic Hand-Woven Hemp Rug carry the same commitment to quality and sustainability.

Price Range: $99 - $230

Rawganique uses only natural materials and organic fibers including cotton, linen, European wool, and hemp, all GMO-free, which is noteworthy. The absence of toxic chemicals like pesticides, formaldehyde, PVC, dioxins, caustic soda, heavy metals, and PFAS reassures that I have made a healthy choice not just for me, but also for the environment.

Additionally, the brand's focus on ethical working conditions and minimizing carbon footprint further cements my faith in their products. As a customer, it's comforting to know that each purchase supports artisans and doesn't contribute to environmental harm.

While Rawganique may not have official certifications, its transparency, commitment to quality, and use of organic materials speak volumes about its ethos. In conclusion, Rawganique is a brand I would highly recommend for anyone looking to invest in beautiful, durable, and nontoxic rugs that align with an eco-conscious lifestyle.

Obakki

If there's a brand that takes the spirit of slow design and ethical business to heart, it's Obakki. Founded in 2005 by Treana and based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Obakki is the perfect blend of unique craftsmanship and social responsibility.

The Obakki Foundation, the brand's philanthropic counterpart, supports over half of its artisans, offering them access to basic needs and opportunities to grow. It's heartening to see a brand go beyond profit and actively works towards making a positive impact on the lives of its artisan partners and the wider community.

The brand's commitment to using local natural materials and creating items in small batches shines through in its rugs. Each piece feels unique and carries the touch of the artisan who crafted it. Obakki’s Mohair Accent Rugs - Karoo Plains, Naturals, and Raw Landscape have added an undeniable charm to most of the customers' living spaces.

Made from Mohair, a sustainable natural fiber that is stain-resistant and non-flammable, these rugs are not only beautiful but also incredibly durable. What struck me is the transparency of Obakki. The brand shares detailed information about the artisans who make the rugs and the materials used in them. You can really feel the personal touch and the story behind each product.

Price Range: $495 CAD - $645 CAD

Obakki's commitment to fair trade is evident in the way they purchase products directly from their artisan partners at a price determined by them. The brand also generously shares profits with its artisans, providing up to 75% of the profit to those who need more support. Not only do they offer exceptional quality and uniquely beautiful designs, but their commitment to slow design, social responsibility, and ethical business practices sets them apart. 

While Obakki doesn't yet have any formal certifications, they're reportedly working towards a B Corp certification, further testament to their dedication to balancing profit with purpose.

I wholeheartedly recommend Obakki to anyone seeking high-quality, sustainable, and ethically crafted rugs for their home.

Grund

Established in 2014 by Jiri Grund, this North Carolina-based brand has successfully cultivated a strong relationship with consumers like me, who are seeking products crafted with care and consciousness.

What I appreciate most about Grund, beyond their superior quality, is their commitment to ethical and fair labor conditions. Being a member of Textile Exchange and GoodWeave, Grund ensures that their rugs are crafted without child labor, and the weaving process is monitored thoroughly, even though the manufacturing happens in India and the Czech Republic.

Some of their most highlighted bath rugs are Asheville Organic Cotton Non-Slip Bath Rug Collection, followed by the Puro Organic Cotton Reversible Bath Rug Collection, and the Charleston Organic Cotton Bath Rug Collection. Each piece radiated quality and comfort, transforming your bathroom into a space of calm and tranquility.

Price Range: $40 - $45

Their GOTS-certified rugs are an absolute joy. Made without pesticides and chemical-free dyes, these rugs are safe for all family members. The certification by The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) further cements my trust in the brand.

In addition to GOTS, Grund holds a commendable list of certifications and standards, including Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX, GoodWeave, Textile Exchange, Green Business, and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Grund's use of certified organic cotton grown sustainably on family farms is the cherry on top of an already impressive brand.

In conclusion, Grund is a beacon of sustainable and ethical practices in the home textiles industry!

West Elm

Discovering West Elm has been nothing short of a journey into the sustainable future of home decor. This eco-friendly furniture and decor brand, hailing from Brooklyn, New York, since 2002, has seamlessly merged style, sustainability, and social responsibility, enhancing the appeal of my home while keeping my conscience clear.

Customers absolutely appreciate West Elm Fair Trade Certified rug collection, particularly the Sun-Kissed Landscape Easy Care Area Rugs, and the Hand-Loomed Shine Area Rugs. The thoughtful use of pure jute and materials from sustainably harvested forests in these natural fiber rugs has enhanced their ethical values and commitment.

From our research,  we found their Premium non-toxic Rug Pad to be an exceptional companion to these rugs, enhancing their functionality while maintaining the brand's eco-friendly ethos.

Price Range: $19 - $999

What truly sets West Elm apart, for me, is its robust commitment to social justice. Ensuring fair wages and healthy working conditions for factory workers and farmers is commendable, but their collaboration with artisan collectives to preserve handcraft traditions takes it a notch higher.

West Elm's efforts don't just end at social responsibility; their transparency in terms of certifications speaks volumes about their commitment to sustainable practices. Notable certifications like Fair Trade USA, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Global Recycled Standard (GRS), and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX add a layer of trust and authenticity to their products.

In a nutshell, if you're on the lookout for stylish, sustainable, and ethically crafted rugs that reflect your values as a conscious consumer, West Elm is the brand to explore.

Pottery Barn

Pottery Barn, an upscale American home furnishing store chain and e-commerce company co-founded by Paul Secon in 1949, now operates under Williams-Sonoma, Inc., with retail locations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Australia.

With a legacy of over 70 years, this San Francisco-based brand has been consistent in offering exceptional quality, as well as a commitment to sustainability that genuinely impresses.

After analyzing the materials and reviews, we've added three of their best-sellers rugs to our collection: the Heather Chenille Jute Rug, the Reeva Handwoven area rugs, and the Capitola Hand-Tufted non-toxic Wool Rugs. Each one is unique in its texture and aesthetic but united in delivering quality and safety.

Price Range: $149 - $300

Their rugs are not only visually striking but they are also GOTS, FSC, and Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified - which means they're tested safe from over 1,000 harmful chemicals and volatile organic compounds.

Pottery Barn's dedication to preserving artisan handcraft traditions is heartwarming. Their area rugs are not just products; they are a testament to the skill and spirit of a team of craftswomen whose abilities are being uplifted through the 'Made by Her' project.

For anyone looking for rugs that are not just about aesthetics but also about safety, environmental responsibility, and social commitment, Pottery Barn should definitely be on your list!

The Citizenry

I've always believed that our homes are more than just spaces; they are narratives of our lives, reflections of our journeys. This ideology, beautifully echoed by The Citizenry, led me to explore their unique collection of jute and natural area rugs.

The Citizenry emphasizes slow design – each product is handcrafted, numbered, and available in limited quantities. This approach ensures that every item you bring into your home is not just a piece of decor, but a piece of art with a unique tale.

Their most highlighted rugs are  Naira handwoven jute rugs, Sabina handwoven jute area rugs, and Lalita hand-knotted area rugs. Crafted from jute, wool, and organic cotton, each rug is an embodiment of the brand's commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Price Range: $499 - $699

These rugs are not only a treat to the eyes but are also Oeko-Tex certified, which ensures a product free from harmful substances, contributing towards a healthier home.

One can't help but admire The Citizenry's devotion to ethical practices. All their products are Fair Trade certified, with the brand going a step beyond and paying 2x the fair trade wage requirement to its artisans.

Being a supporter of women empowerment, it delighted me to know that 61% of The Citizenry's artisan partners are women. The brand works with almost 4000 artisans from 23 different countries, creating a global impact.

If you're looking for decor that infuses your space with unique stories and positively impacts communities around the world, The Citizenry should undoubtedly be your go-to brand.

Under the Nile

Under the Nile is a brand that's always been close to my heart. Conceived 25 years ago by a devoted mother, Janice Masoud, the brand aims to provide clothing and home essentials that are gentle on the skin and safe for everyone.

Consumers were particularly drawn to their natural non-toxic rug collections - the Small Rug / Play Mat and the Big Rug. They're handwoven masterpieces created from leftover scraps from Under the Nile's clothing production, showcasing an impressive commitment to waste reduction.

Price Range: $35 - $55

Moreover, these eco-cotton rugs are crafted from 100% certified organic Egyptian cotton, giving them an unmistakably luxurious feel underfoot.

Perhaps what I appreciate the most about Under the Nile's rugs is their adherence to safety and environmental standards. These products are completely free of harmful substances like Azo colorants, bleach, BPA, flame retardants, formaldehyde, fragrance, PVC, and lead. This level of safety is reflected in their remarkable certifications, including Fairtrade, Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), USDA organic, and OEKO-TEX® standard 100.

As for their workers, all are treated with respect and paid fair wages. Certified Fairtrade facilities ensure that the workers have access to on-site healthcare, childcare, and daily organic meals. To me, this speaks volumes about the brand's dedication to social responsibility.

Furthermore, Under the Nile makes a conscious effort to minimize its environmental impact. By reducing the amount of chemicals, water, and wastewater used in production, the brand showcases its commitment to sustainable practices.

If you're in search of natural rugs that are as good for your home as they are for the world, then look no further than Under the Nile!

Organic Weave

Founded in 2009 by Linda Alexanian, Organic Weave is more than just a rug company. It's a testament to creating products that are in harmony with nature, truly embodying their mantra of "from farm to floor."

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A distinguishing factor of Organic Weave is their commitment to using only organic wool or organic cotton in their rugs. And I must say, the organic cotton rugs, like the Signature Cotton Shag rugs and Seersucker Wool + Cotton Shag rugs, have unparalleled softness and durability that adds both comfort and style to any space.

Price Range: $1500 - $1550

What sets these rugs apart is the use of GOTS-certified plant-based non-toxic dyes and GOTS-approved non-toxic glue. Adding to their commendable ethical practices, Organic Weave collaborates with Unnayan, a non-governmental organization that supports a women's cooperative near Varanasi, India.

To wrap up, my experience with Organic Weave's organic cotton rugs has been extraordinary!

Earth Weave

In an industry full of synthetics and chemicals, Earth Weave is a breath of fresh air. Their dedication to crafting 100% natural fiber carpets and area rugs is as impressive as it is inspiring.

Every step of the production process clearly emphasizes the brand's commitment to harnessing the gifts of Mother Nature and her renewable natural resources.

Many of the customers have had the joy of incorporating the Earth Weave Catskill Rug into their homes, and it's a decision they appreciate each day. Crafted from organic wool, it’s more than just a rug - it's a statement piece, a testament to an uncompromising commitment to eco-friendliness and quality.

Price Range: $430 - $500

The colors of the rug are natural, derived from wool as it is grown on the sheep’s back, or organically dyed using Earth Weave's unique OrganoSoftColor dyes. The rich, earthy tones serve as a constant reminder of the brand’s organic roots.

Earth Weave rugs, which are 100% biodegradable reinforce the brand's commitment to sustainability. Even when it comes time to replace your rug, Earth Weave encourages customers to recycle their Bio-Floor rugs in their gardens. The materials used, including hemp, cotton, wool, and jute, further highlight their pledge to be truly organic.

The natural materials, biodegradable offerings, and commitment to Mother Nature’s resources make Earth Weave a compelling choice for anyone seeking to add a touch of eco-friendly luxury to their space.

Hook and Loom

Hook and Loom, a brand dedicated to eco-friendly rugs, was founded by Whitney Selke in 2013 and is located in Western Massachusetts. As an ardent lover of eco-friendly home decor, Hook and Loom have become my go-to brand for sustainable rugs.

From our research, we were highly impressed with the Windsor Eco Cotton Rug – Denim/White and the Grey Loom-Hooked Eco Cotton Rug. These rugs are carefully hand-woven in India, showcasing an incredible blend of style and environmental stewardship.

Price Range: $28 - $595

What sets Hook and Loom apart is its commitment to producing rugs without the use of dyes, glues, chemicals, or latex. The brand's color range comes from its ingenious use of eco-cotton made from donated textiles, spun into vibrant new yarns.

The Loom-Hooked Wool rugs, on the other hand, feature undyed wool in natural sheep colors, woven into elegant patterns.

The fair treatment of their workers is admirable, and their donation of a portion of their income to Water For People underscores their commitment to social responsibility. They use only organic fibers such as GOTS-certified organic cotton, and wool to make their organic rugs.

The quality, aesthetics, and eco-friendly nature of Hook and Loom rugs make them a worthy addition to any home.

FAQs about Rugs

What is the safest rug material?

Wool and organic cotton are often touted as the safest rug materials. Wool rugs, especially hand-knotted wool rugs or those made from undyed natural wool, are naturally flame-resistant and durable.

Organic cotton rugs, such as organic cotton bath rugs, are gentle on the skin and easy to maintain.

Is there such a thing as a non-toxic carpet?

Yes, non-toxic carpets do exist. Like nontoxic rugs, these carpets are made from natural fibers without harmful chemical treatments. Brands like Earth Weave and Hook and Loom are known for their non-toxic area rugs and carpets.

Which type of carpet is the least toxic?

Carpets made of natural fibers like wool, jute, and organic cotton are the least toxic. Non-toxic nursery rugs, organic wool rugs, and organic rugs with GOTS certification are great examples of less toxic carpets.

What are natural fiber rugs?

Natural fiber rugs are made from plant or animal-derived fibers such as wool, cotton, jute, or hemp. They're typically dyed with natural non-toxic dyes and don't contain synthetic materials.

Are wool rugs healthy?

Absolutely. Wool rugs are not only durable and cozy, but they're also healthy choices as they do not contain synthetic fibers or toxic chemicals. Moreover, they're naturally flame-resistant, which adds an extra layer of safety.

Do I need a rug pad for my non-toxic rug made from natural fibers, and what type should I look for?

Yes, a rug pad is recommended for any rug, including non-toxic rugs made from natural fibers. Rug pads add cushioning, prevent slippage, and extend the lifespan of your rug.

Look for non-toxic rug pads made from natural rubber or natural rubber adhesive, without synthetic rubber or harmful chemicals.

Conclusion

Choosing non-toxic rugs for your home is a significant step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable living space. Look for rugs made of natural fibers, such as wool or cotton, certified by standards like GOTS, and avoid rugs made from synthetic materials and treated with harmful chemicals.

Brands like Earth Weave, Hook and Loom, and even larger retailers like West Elm offer a range of non-toxic and eco-friendly rugs to suit any style. Remember, a safer home is not a destination but a journey, and every small step counts.