Viscose Rugs VS. Silk Rugs :
What you need to know
Rugs can be produced in a variety of different materials but , but perhaps the most beautiful and sustainable material is silk. Silk rugs are butter-soft , have a faint shimmer, and have the feeling of absolute luxury. Because they are such high-quality pieces, they come with an investment as one would expect.
And that is why viscose rugs started to pop-up -- as a more affordable alternative. Alternatives to silk have been on the market for decades. you may be familiar with it from the clothing industry where it is called rayon . In the rug industry , we know it as viscose , art silk , or bamboo silk.
So what is the difference between viscose rugs and natural silk rugs? And why does it matter?
Silk Fibers
We already mentioned just how beautiful silk rugs are, so it's no surprise that they are one of the most prized possessions in the people's homes. Silk is a natural fiber that is extracted from the cocoons of silkworms-the production process is time-consuming and adds to the cost of natural silk rugs. Silk is animal fiber
Silk fibers are one of the strongest natural fibers and are also extremely fine - this allows silk rugs to have more intricate design work and to be more pliable . It also gives the rug longevity as it maintains the fiber strength for a considerable amount of time.
Pair that with the battery soft texture - that isn't slippery - and the beautiful way it refracts light, and you can see why silk rugs are worth the investment.
Viscose Fibers
Viscose is a man-made fiber that was invented as an alternative to silk. It is made from wood pulp, cotton, and the banana leaf.
When comparing viscose to silk , the naked eye will have a difficult time telling them apart - they look extremely similar. Like silk, viscose has a beautiful luster but the fiber is susceptible to stains.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
when you purchase a silk rug, you are purchasing an investment piece. Yes , they are expensive but they will last a lifetime and hold onto their beauty over the years. Silk rugs are statement pieces that add a touch of luxury to your home. Simply stated, they are worth the investment.
Purchasing a viscose rug is kind to your wallet upfront but there is a chance that you will be buying multiple rugs over time. On average , you will need to be a good substitute for silk rugs when budget is a factor.
