Given that handmade rugs are some of the most beautiful & luxurious home decor items, it’s easy to understand why some individuals hesitate to use them in the most functional but overlooked rooms in the house: The kitchen, laundry room, & bathrooms. One of the most common questions I get about the use of handmade rugs is whether or not they are a good fit for these & other wet areas in the home. Keep in mind that handmade rugs have been through a lot of washing before they even get to you; the wool is washed before it’s dyed, the dying process utilizes water, & the rugs are thoroughly washed with water before they’re sold. So, the simple answer to whether or not handmade rugs are a good idea in wet areas is a resounding yes!

Wool is naturally a moisture-wicking material. The construction of the wool allows for better air flow in comparison to other natural materials, which is why it can handle moisture without any issues. If you’re worried about mold, mildew, or “wet wool” smells, again, just be sure to hang up your rug when it’s wet.

Keep in mind too that many handmade rugs have been made with natural dyes; colors that have mellowed & settled in the fibers in a way that won’t color bleed. This is a great testament to using antique rugs made from natural fibers & dyes for daily use in your home. Do keep in mind that if your rug has synthetic dyes in it, it may be more susceptible to color bleed. Synthetic dyes have been utilized for many years; even some rugs from the 1920’s (which are considered to be antique due to their age) have synthetic dyes in the wool. These rugs are still great for the home, but because of the potential of color bleed they may not be the best for areas that get the most wet in the home. 

Do you have a handmade rug in your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room? If not, would you consider one now?