What to look for when purchasing a Hearth Rug

Look for a hearth rug to complement your décor – for a colonial look, braided throw rugs are ideal. If you are protecting an Oriental rug, find either a very plain hearth rug in a single, complementary color, or one that carries through the Oriental theme. Sisal and jute rugs are rugged and attractive, but make sure they are truly flame-retardant before using them as hearth rugs.

Look for flame-retardant materials. Treated wool can be used in the manufacture of hearth rugs that will not only not catch fire when a live coal lands on it, but actually allow the coal to burn out. The rug will be singed, of course, but the singed portion will simply brush off, leaving no black mark to show that the hearth rug had done its duty.

Fiberglass
Fiberglass is the highest protection you can put in front of your fireplace. The face (top side) of the rug is fire resistant fiberglass material with a heavy vinyl back to assure that the rug lays flat and does not allow tripping.

Wool
Wool is the highest protection other than fiberglass. Being a natural fiber, wool will not melt like the synthetic fibers. Natural fibers may char but often brush clean.

Nylon
Nylon is the highest melting point of any synthetic fiber. Embers may produce a small melt spot on the rug, but will not burn. Nylon will provide protection to the underlying surface.

Olefin Polyester & Polypropylene
Olefin polyester and polypropylene have a slightly lower melting point than nylon hearth rugs. Embers may produce a small melt spot on the rug, but will not burn. They provide protection to the underlying surface.

Hearth rugs are made in a wide variety of styles, colors, patterns, materials, and prices. At prices ranging from $50 to $1,000.