At Atelier Tapis Rouge, we often encounter questions about rug pile while our customers browse through our extensive rug catalog. Yet, even the most discerning of shoppers may not be fully aware of what rug pile is and how it impacts their living environment. Therefore, we’ve created this guide to provide a clear understanding of rug pile types and how to choose the right one for your space.
Understanding Rug Pile
Rug pile, or simply ‘pile,’ refers to the visible tufts of yarn that make up a rug’s surface, essentially forming its face. The pile can be left in loops or cut, and it varies in terms of thickness and texture – from thick to thin, and from soft to coarse. Understanding these aspects of rug pile can help you make the right choice from our carpets catalogue.
Key Pile Types: Cut, Loop, and Beyond
Rug piles come primarily in two forms: cut and loop. The more commonly seen cut-pile is defined by clipped yarn loops, which form plush tufts. The soft and dense nature of cut-pile rugs makes them an ideal choice for spaces where comfort is a priority, such as bedrooms or living rooms where you enjoy lounging barefoot.
On the other hand, loop-pile rugs, the unsung heroes of the rug world, retain uncut yarn loops. This type of pile is less common but offers superior durability, making loop-pile rugs perfect for high-traffic areas.
The Impact of Pile Height
Pile height, which typically falls into three categories: low (less than 1/4 inch), medium (1/4 to 1/2 inch), and high (1/2 to 3/4 inch), significantly influences a rug’s appearance and feel.
High-pile rugs, also referred to as “plush” due to their softness, showcase longer, looser threads for a fluffy touch and elegant look. In contrast, low-pile rugs feature tightly woven and dense fibers, making them seem flat and sometimes even coarse.
While traditional-style rugs like Oriental, Persian, and Tibetan typically sport low piles, contemporary design trends and style preferences have led to the advent of high-pile adaptations.
Rug Pile and Maintenance: A Balancing Act
High-pile rugs invite bare feet with their remarkable softness but demand regular and thorough cleaning due to their tendency to trap dust and dirt deep within. On the other hand, the short fibers of low-pile rugs make maintenance easier by keeping dirt on the surface where light vacuuming can effectively remove it.
Furthermore, low-pile rugs offer superior durability, wearing more evenly than high piles, and making them a suitable choice for high-traffic areas like hallways. They also resist wear from furniture better than high-pile rugs, which can develop unsightly indentations.
The Final Choice: Cut or Loop? Low or High?
Both rug pile types and heights have their unique benefits. If comfort is your priority, you might lean towards cut and high-pile rugs, while loop and low-pile rugs offer resilience against traffic and stains.
Our advice is to consider your living situation, your aesthetic preferences, and practical requirements before choosing a pile type. Whether you’re browsing our handmade rugs online or flipping through our rug catalog, understanding rug pile will help you make an informed choice. Our customer service team is ready to assist you with any further queries on rug pile types or anything related to our rug and carpet catalog. At Atelier Tapis Rouge, we’re committed to helping you make the perfect choice for your space.