Most people don’t know how much of a difference the fibre makes to the quality of the rug they're buying. Nor all the added environmental, ethical and health-related negatives of using sub-quality fibres and production processes.

Let's uncover the dirty secret behind many cheap rugs

1. Toxic Chemicals & Toxic Waste

Cheap rugs are often manufactured with synthetic materials and dyed with harsh, toxic chemicals. The toxic waste from the manufacturing process is released into waterways, off cuts are buried or burnt, all of which damage the delicate balance in the environment and devastate eco-systems. 

Plus, toxic dyes can release harmful fumes into your home and create a haven for microbes.
Sadly, it's the kids and pets who often play and lie on the rug who are especially vulnerable to these hazards. 

2. Made by children for low wages

Many low-cost rugs are produced under unethical conditions, often involving child labour and unfair wages. Think about it, from start to finish, a rug takes multiple days to create.. how could a rug possibly be made fairly, yet be sold for around $100?

How does the manufacturer cover the cost of materials, labour, shipping, operating costs and advertising, yet still make profit? 

Here's a hint.. it's called exploitation.

According to GoodWeave international 'Nearly one in 10 children is working as a child labourer in the global economy. Often forfeiting the chance to ever begin school, these children have the highest illiteracy rates in the world. Victims are five to 17 years of age, and nearly half of them, 79 million, are in hazardous work.'

3. Excess shedding + low quality = early landfill 

Cheap rugs shed endlessly due to poor-quality fibres. This means more vacuuming for you and a rug that will likely fall apart within a few years. Once it’s no good and looking shabby in your home.. where does it go? Straight to landfill, where its synthetic fibres will take hundreds of years to break down.

On top of that, the production process dumps harmful chemicals into local water supplies, devastating surrounding communities in poorer countries where the rugs are often made.

The reality behind a cheap rug isn't so nice.

That's why at Rugs for Good, our focus has been on bringing you rugs you can trust. Rugs that last the test of time and that you can feel good about purchasing.

A better alternative? You've come to the right place

If you’re ready for a rug that’s as good for your home as it is for the planet, and the above feels like a BIG NO for you... it’s time to explore a better choice: rugs crafted from 100% New Zealand Wool, sustainably harvested natural jute, and eco-friendly TENCEL™. These materials are as kind to the planet as they are to your home.

Here’s why a quality, ethically made rug is a good investment:

1. We make our rugs fairly and ethically

Every Rugs for Good rug is GoodWeave certified, ensuring no child labour is involved. The Artisans we work with in India are paid fair wages (in fact we pay 3x the industry standard!) and each piece is created in small batches to prioritise quality and sustainable on-going work for our team.

Pictured above: Ananda Two-toned Round Jute Rug in Natural

2. Sustainable Materials

• New Zealand Wool: Our wool is 100% New Zealand Wool, ethically sourced from farms that are committed to ethical and sustainable practices. It's well known that New Zealand Wool offers some of the highest-quality fibres in the world! Its long, durable strands and natural whiteness create rugs that last for generations while retaining their softness and beauty.
  
  
• 100% Natural Jute: Our jute is sustainably harvested during dry seasons, ensuring a healthier and golden fibre. Unlike cheap jute, which is often sourced in wet seasons under poor working conditions, resulting in muddy and lower-quality material. Jute is also one of the most eco-friendly fibres available due to it being fast growing renewable resource that requires minimal water and no harmful pesticides. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone seeking to create a beautiful, environmentally conscious home.
  
  
• TENCEL™: Derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, TENCEL™ is a luxurious, silky fibre that’s both biodegradable and gentle on the planet. Known for its smooth texture and stunning sheen, TENCEL™ adds a touch of elegance to our designs without compromising sustainability. Discover our Lustre Luxe collection with is made from 85%  TENCEL™ and AZO free dyes.

3. Better for your health

New Zealand Wool, jute, and TENCEL™ are all hypoallergenic, making them excellent choices for anyone with allergies. Wool’s natural properties trap dust and hold moisture, while Jute and TENCEL™’s production process minimises chemical usage, ensuring a healthier home environment.

4. Quality and comfort

Whether it’s the cloud-like softness of New Zealand Wool, the rustic charm of jute, or the silky luxury of TENCEL™, these natural fibres are designed to enhance your space. Their durability, warmth, and timeless beauty make them perfect for family homes where comfort and longevity and conscious purchases are priorities.

Pictured above: Mendocino Wool & Jute Rug in Olive

Ready to make a better rug purchase?

Choosing a high-quality rug isn’t just about style... it’s about creating a healthier, more sustainable, and ethically responsible home. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your home. Invest in quality, comfort, and care with Rugs for Good.

Choose better with our collection of ethically made luxury rugs.