Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a solution-dyed synthetic fiber originally created in Italy in the late 1950s by Giulio Natta and Karl Ziegler. Also known as olefin, polypropylene has become one of the most common synthetic materials used in the manufacturing of textiles for upholstery and clothing, insulating fibers for packaging and houses, and yarns for ropes and rugs.
Color & Comfort: Polypropylene is a solution-dyed material, which means that the dyeing takes place simultaneously with the production of the fiber. This process makes polypropylene rugs colorfast and fade-resistant, perfect for a wide array of design styles and applications. These rugs come in a variety of colors, from classic neutrals to vibrant hues. Designed to mimic the feel of cotton or wool, polypropylene rugs feel soft and have a comfortable texture.
Durable & Dependable: Polypropylene rugs are high-performing synthetic options that hold up in high-traffic areas like households with pets and/ or children or light contract settings. They are easy to maintain and since polypropylene is impervious to moisture, it resists water-based stains. The polypropylene rugs that we sell are flat weaves with loop pile (as opposed to cut or shag pile), a construction that resists crushing and has a sleek, low profile.
Indoor & Outdoor: Polypropylene yarns have weather-resistant properties like resistance to UV damage, fading, mold, and mildew. The vivid colors are colorfast and fibers do not absorb water. All this adds up to a rug that is versatile with modern designs that blend seamlessly into interior or exterior spaces. Not all polypropylene rugs can be used outdoors—check the weave’s Specification tab to verify.
If you want to learn which rug material is right for your lifestyle, how to select the right size rug for your space, or how to buy a rug online, head over to our blog post Rug Buying Guide - Everything You Need to Know for a deep dive.
It depends on the backing. Always check the rug's specifications. Some polypropylene rugs are only for indoor use, while most can live both indoors and outdoors. An indoor polypropylene rug has a backing, like action, felt or latex, to provide the weave extra cushioning and stability.
An outdoor polypropylene rug will either not have a backing or have a backing suitable for outdoor use. The maze-like Cambridge does not have a backing but our tiger-eyed Sydney is backed with a latex gel that is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Unbacked polypropylene rugs can be used inside or outside, but we recommend the use of a non-slip rug pad for safety and comfort when used indoors.
Cleaning an outdoor polypropylene rug that has no backing can be as easy as spraying it with a hose. If water does not do the trick, normal household cleaning agents will help lift any stains. For best results over time, outdoor polypropylene rugs should not be left outdoors in the elements for extended periods. Store polypropylene rugs indoors in the winter or during inclement weather to prevent staining and damage.
For indoor polypropylene rugs or carpet, any spill or stain should be mopped or vacuumed up immediately. Since polypropylene does not absorb liquid, any spilled liquids that are not recovered by blotting with clean towels or the cleaning system (i.e. rug cleaning machine) will work their way back up to the surface to evaporate, bringing with it residual dirt, soil, or detergents that cause staining. This is commonly referred to as “wick-back.” As a general rule for all rugs and carpet, we suggest weekly vacuuming to lift dust and dirt to prevent wick-back.
Oil-based stains can be challenging to lift from a polypropylene rug because polypropylene is oleophilic, meaning it attracts oily substances. Do not use an oil-based solvent to clean your polypropylene rug. Instead, find a treatment specially formulated for polypropylene and consider applying a carpet protectant when your rug first arrives. All of our weaves come with detailed care guides that are accessible on each weave’s page under the Care tab. For more general care instructions, our Care Guides resource page offers tips for cleaning synthetic as well as natural fiber rugs.
A polypropylene rug is a great match for both lifestyle and design style. Polypropylene is prized for its flexible appearance—polypropylene can be woven into a plush, wool-like carpet or a tight, sisal-look rug. Our polypropylenes are available as broadloom for wall-to-wall carpeting or you can create a custom rug to fit your exact dimensions.
A jumbo bouclé polypropylene carpet like Paddington, with its classic sisal look in rich colors, brings timeless styling and minimalist texture to modern decors when installed wall-to-wall. A polypropylene runner crafted from any of our Terasa weaves adds casual comfort to a beachfront cottage. A polypropylene custom area rug from Tulum or Costa Maya brings jewel-toned inspiration to outdoor dining areas. Polypropylene is also a great material for boat carpet, bringing sophisticated yet sensible floor coverings to boats and yachts.