A smooth slate grey rug in a minimalist room

Synthetic rugs, explained

Nylon, polyester, polypropylene, and viscose, by name.

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Names set by rule

The FTC says: "Both natural and man-made fibers must be identified by their generic names." Its rules at 16 CFR 303.7 set those names and define each one.

Nylon and polyester

The rules define nylon, in part, as a manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide. They define polyester as a manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long chain synthetic polymer of at least 85% by weight of an ester of a substituted aromatic carboxylic acid.

Olefin and polypropylene

The rules define olefin as a manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long chain synthetic polymer of at least 85 percent by weight of ethylene, propylene, or other olefin units. The FTC lists polypropylene among the ISO fiber names permitted on labels.

Rayon and viscose

The rules define rayon as a manufactured fiber composed of regenerated cellulose. The FTC says the ISO standard uses the name viscose for the predominant form of rayon, and either name may be used.

How synthetics came into rugs

CCI says modern carpets and rugs are usually constructed from synthetic fibres. The New Georgia Encyclopedia says bulked continuous filament nylon was introduced to the carpet industry in 1957.

Read the label

The fiber content label names the fibers in each rug. We do not compare how synthetic fibers wear, clean, or hold color, because we have no neutral source for that.

Synthetic fiber names. Per the FTC Textile rules.

Sources: FTC, Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts; eCFR, 16 CFR Part 303, Rules and Regulations Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act; Canadian Conservation Institute, Basic care: Carpets and rugs; New Georgia Encyclopedia, Carpet Industry.

FAQ

Is polypropylene the same as olefin?

The FTC rules use olefin as the generic name, and the FTC also permits the ISO name polypropylene on labels.

Is viscose a synthetic fiber?

The FTC rules define rayon, which the ISO calls viscose, as a manufactured fiber composed of regenerated cellulose. We describe it by that definition.

General information only. Keep walking paths clear. The CDC's home fall prevention checklist for older adults says to remove throw rugs, or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won't slip. Follow the maker's label and instructions for any rug, rug pad, tape, or cleaning product. If someone falls and is hurt, get medical help. In an emergency, call 911.

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