If you’ve been out shopping for rugs recently, there’s a chance you may have come across a few made from “100% PET” or “100% recycled PET”. And chances are, it may not be 100% clear what this means, or whether it’s any good.
We’re here to tell you that PET is an excellent choice! It’s not only a soft yet hard-wearing material, but it’s also better on the environment.
What is recycled PET?
Part of the answer lies in the name. PET, which stands for Polyethylene terephthalate, is a type of polyester. This material often begins life as a plastic container or bottle. Plastics that would otherwise end up in landfills and the ocean are instead recycled into PET. The material is then used to make a variety of new items, including the yarn used in area rugs.
Fun Fact: PET that has already been made into products can still be recycled over and over again.
Besides reducing the amount of plastic pollutants, PET also requires less energy to produce than brand new polyester and does not need petroleum. This reduces the need to rely on fossil fuels and other natural resources.
Is PET yarn good for a rug?
The idea of having a rug that was once a pile of plastic bottles might make you think twice about whether it will look good or more importantly, whether the rug will last. There’s actually nothing to worry about! Recycled PET is just as tough as newly made polyester. It’s stain resistant, water-resistant, and is easy to clean.
Although recycled PET rugs are a fairly new concept, there’s already tons of versatility in terms of style. Our Sustainable Trends Collection, for example, boasts a variety of chic patterns in neutral colors that add a cozy vibe to any room. They’re also so soft, you’d find it hard to believe they’re really PET!
So, next time you come across a rug made from PET yarns, we hope you’ll add it to the top of your consideration list. They’re a great choice for your home and for the planet.
