Cowhide rugs are a unique and stylish flooring option that have gained popularity in recent years. Whether your preferred style of decor is modern and funky or traditional farmhouse, you’re sure to have seen one of these rugs pop up somewhere. These rugs are made from the natural hides of cows, which are tanned and processed to create a durable and luxurious material. They’re not everyone’s favorite, not by any means, but they have been growing in popularity recently, so it’s important to know everything about them! Keep reading for a rundown on all things cowhide rugs, the pros and cons.

Features and Benefits

Durability

Cowhide rugs are known for their durability and long lifespan. The natural fibers and tanning process used to create these rugs make them resistant to wear and tear, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas. For example, a cowhide rug is a great option if you are looking for an entryway rug. 

Unique Appearance

Each cowhide rug is unique, with its own natural pattern and markings – this is one of the main draws for those looking to purchase one. This means that no two are exactly the same, adding a touch of individuality and character to your home decor that is hard to achieve with any other style or pattern of rug.

Versatility

Cowhide rugs come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, making them a versatile flooring option that can be used in many different rooms and settings. Whether you are looking to add a rustic touch to your living room or a chic accent to your bedroom, they are an excellent choice. They are the most popular in modern eclectic settings, or more traditional farmhouse settings, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t also fit somewhere in between.

Comfort

Despite being a natural material, these rugs are surprisingly soft and comfortable to walk on. The texture of the hide adds a plushness to the rug, making it cozier than one would imagine. They aren’t as plush as some other options, like shags, but they are softer and more comfortable than a handful of other designs that are currently in-style.

Hypoallergenic

Cowhide rugs are hypoallergenic, making them a smart choice for people with allergies or sensitivities to synthetic materials. The laying pattern of the hair also makes it more difficult for dirt and dust to gather underneath it, meaning that the cleaning of these rugs is less of a hassle than with rugs of thicker fibers.

Caring for a Cowhide Rug

Regular Cleaning

To keep your cowhide rug looking its best, it is important to regularly vacuum it to remove dirt and debris. Be sure to use a low setting on your vacuum to avoid damaging the rug's natural fibers. For more about rug-cleaning, take a look at our guide to cleaning a wool rug at home. While this article isn’t focused on cowhide rugs, the steps are generally the same.

Spot Cleaning

If you spill something on your cowhide rug, it is important to clean it up as soon as possible to avoid staining. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to gently clean the affected area, being careful not to saturate the rug.

Avoid Bright, Direct Sunlight

Cowhide rugs should be kept out of direct sunlight, as this can cause fading and discoloration over time. If your rug is in a sunny area, consider using window treatments to block out the sun's rays, like blinds or curtains. This fading won’t happen very quickly, as most rugs are treated to withstand sunshine entering a home, but over several years some fading will be noticed if the rug is placed in direct sunlight often enough.

Rotate the Rug

To prevent uneven wear and tear, it is important to rotate your cowhide rug periodically. This will help to ensure that the rug wears evenly over time. This is especially important if there is any heavy furniture resting on top of the rug that could leave indentations if the rug wasn’t turned occasionally.

Real and Faux Cowhide Rugs

Cowhide rugs are available in both real and faux versions. A real cowhide rug has a one-of-a-kind appearance because each rug has its own natural pattern and markings. Faux cowhide rugs, on the other hand, provide a more affordable and ethical alternative that closely resembles the appearance of a real cowhide rug. These faux versions are not one-of-a-kind, and their patterns are re-used in production. Faux cowhide rugs are a great option for someone that wants to avoid buying products that involve the use of any real animals, as well as anyone that is decorating on a tighter budget.

FAQ’s

Q: How do I clean a cowhide rug?

A: Shaking off any loose dirt or dust is the first step in cleaning a cowhide rug. Following shaking, any remaining dirt or debris can be removed with a soft-bristled brush or a low-powered vacuum. Avoid using a powerful vacuum cleaner because it may rip out the fine hairs in the rug. To remove spots, use a gentle detergent diluted in water and a clean, moist towel. Blot the stain gently with the cloth, taking care not to wet the rug. Using a rug pad with a cowhide rug can be difficult due to the shape, but if you can manage it, it will also help you with preventing wear and tear to your rug, and also help with any sliding.

Q: How often should I clean my cowhide rug?

A: The amount of foot traffic on your cowhide rug will determine how frequently you should clean it. Rugs in high-traffic areas should be cleaned every two to three months. Rugs in lower-traffic areas only require cleaning every few months.

Long story short, cowhide rugs are one of the most popular new ways to add some flair to your decor, whether your home is more eclectic and modern, or traditional and rustic. From cabins to apartments, cowhide rugs are making their way onto the scene, and we don't see them leaving anytime soon. There are dozens of different sizes and shapes to choose from, and each print is unique meaning that the rug will be your very own, and speak to you and the individuality of your decor.

If you're looking for a new rug for your home, cowhide or not, be sure to take a look at all of our listings at Decorsify.com! We have hundreds of rugs that are sure to fit hundreds of different styles, aesthetics, and color schemes. If you're in the market for a new rug or any new furniture, take a look at our options first to save you a headache and any hefty costs. And as always, happy shopping!