Many U.S. carpet distributors claim to sell natural sisal, seagrass, mountain grass, and bamboo carpets, when it is only half true.  Many companies use synthetics, or synthetic-blends, because this is cheaper for them to manufacture.  They do not have access to sisal or seagrass locally, so they use imitation fibers made of chemicals such as olefin.

Olefin is a compound also referred to as polyethylene or polypropylene.  Although it is a synthetic, it actually does not last as well as natural sisal, seagrass, or wool--the fibers it is used to imitate.  And although olefin may closely resemble natural fibers in appearance, it does not have the same feel; for no living thing can be replaced by a manmade substitute.  Olefin does not have the same benefits that natural fibers inherently possess.  For instance, sisal and seagrass are very durable and versatile; wool is able to filter contaminants from the air.  Olefin does not benefit the carpet owner in any way.  It is not enviromentally friendly--as it is resistant to biodegradation.

So before you buy, make sure your carpet is all natural.  Natural will be happier, your feet will be happier, and most importantly, you will be happier.

All-Natural Sisal, seagrass, mountain grass, and bamboo rugs can be found at Natural Home Rugs.