Toxic Chemicals Found in Rugs
According to the American Lung Association, synthetic rugs like those made of nylon, are known for releasing toxic gases. These chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are often found in the materials used to manufacture rugs, such as synthetic fibers, dyes, adhesives, and treatments for stain resistance or fire retardancy. When rugs are exposed to factors like heat, moisture, or wear and tear, these chemicals can be released into the air, leading to indoor air pollution.
The Environmental Protection Agency classifies some VOCs as harmful, and some have been linked to cancers. In addition, VOCs can react with other gases and form other air pollutants after they are in the air.
Opting for non-toxic rugs made from natural fibers and dyes or certified by labels such as OEKO-TEX or Global Organic Textile Standard, ensures a safer home environment.
Read also our article about Non-Toxic Couches And Sofas For An Eco-Friendly Home or Organic Pillows Without Toxic Chemicals.
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How To Pick Non-Toxic Rugs?
Looking for a non-toxic rug can be a difficult task, especially with all the different materials and certifications available. At The Conscious Insider, we’ve done the work for you and narrowed it down.
We’ve analyzed dozens of brands based on three key criteria: the quality of the materials used, the labels, and the users reviews for the quality of the product.
- When choosing non-toxic home decor, consider the materials used in both the products and packaging. Look for organic and non-toxic materials or natural fibers and dyes.
- Trust the Certifications and Labels. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a simplified glossary of the best eco-friendly certifications to look out for:
- CertiPUR-US: For non-toxic foam.
- GREENGUARD Gold certified: For products with low chemical emissions.
- FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified: For wood sourced in responsibly managed forests.
- OEKO-Tex certified: For non-toxic textiles.
- GOTS or Global Organic Textile Standard certified: For organic textiles.
- GOLS or Global Organic Latex Standard certified: For organic latex.
- Made Safe and EWG certified: For non-toxic products.
Note that a company can still be sustainable even if it doesn’t possess these certifications.
- Verified users reviews are also important factors to consider when choosing a non-toxic rug. Look for brands that have a high rating and positive reviews from verified customers who have purchased and used the products.
10 Non-Toxic Rugs For Nursery and Kid Room
1. Lorena Canals – Play Rug Wildflowers
Materials | 97% cotton & 3% other fibers. Complies with quality and safety regulations for children: ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 certified.
Prices Start At | $95
Why We Love It |
- Embrace safety and style with this non-toxic rug, ideal for allergic kids and asthmatics.
- Handcrafted in India with natural fibers and free from toxic dyes.
- Hypoallergenic design ensures a safe place for sensitive kids to play.
- Washable feature offers convenient spillage cleanup.
- Excellent moisture absorption and heat conductivity for breathability.
- Available in 7 colors: Natural, Ivory, Flowers in Vintage Nude, Lt. Honey, Vintage Blue, Anil Blue, Pink, and Lilac.
2. Lorena Canals – Washable Rug Wheels
Materials | 97% cotton & 3% other fibers. Complies with quality and safety regulations for children: ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 certified.
Prices Start At | $95
Why We Love It |
- Embrace safety and style with this non-toxic rug, ideal for allergic kids and asthmatics.
- Handcrafted in India with natural fibers and free from toxic dyes.
- Hypoallergenic design ensures a safe haven for sensitive individuals.
- Washable feature offers convenient spillage cleanup.
- Excellent moisture absorption and heat conductivity for breathability.
- Available in 7 colors: Natural, Vintage Blue, Light Blue, Petrol Blue, Dark Honey, Olive, Dark red
3. Parachute – Checkered Wool Rug
Materials | 65% New Zealand wool and 35% cotton. OEKO-TEX Non-Toxic Certified .
Prices Start At | $349
Why We Love It |
- Handwoven and non-toxic rug crafted with natural fibers for a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
- OEKO-TEX certification guarantees non-toxic materials and a safe environment for your kids.
- Produced in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, supporting ethical and fair labor practices.
- Available in four sizes to accommodate various spaces and preferences.
4. Leah Singh – Aurelia Round Wool Rug
Materials | Made with wool and AZO-free dyes.
Prices Start At | $220
Why We Love It |
- Crafted with natural materials and AZO-free dyes for a non-toxic and safe choice.
- Handmade using a traditional embroidery technique by skilled artisans in Kashmir, India.
- Each purchase of this handcrafted non-toxic rug contributes to supporting artisans and preserving their traditional craft.
5. Kiliim – Scribbles Wool Rug
Materials | Premium Egyptian cotton and wool
Prices Start At | $95
Why We Love It |
- Wool intricately woven on a cotton base for a blend of comfort and durability.
- Using upcycled parts from Cairo carpet factories, Kiliim’s rugs and pillows are all about sustainability and creativity.
- Kiliim, an Egyptian social enterprise and lifestyle brand, is dedicated to revitalizing and preserving the traditional craft of handmade kilim making in Egypt.
- Choose from a range of eight sizes to find the perfect fit for your space.
6. Ruggable – Jungle Safari Multicolor Rug
Materials | Made from polyester
Prices Start At | $89
Why We Love It |
- Add a wildly whimsical touch to your child’s space with these charming rugs.
- Custom-made to order and offered in various sizes and comfort levels to suit your needs.
- Enjoy the convenience of washable and non-slip features for easy maintenance and safety.
- Crafted from spill-proof material and designed to be stain-resistant, ensuring durability and longevity.
- Rated 4.8/5 stars over 323 reviews such as “This one is versatile! We’re currently using it for our little one’s play area and then plan to move it to her bathroom when she’s older. The design isn’t too busy and she loves pointing at and naming the animals.” Michael
- Free shipping within the US
7. Rug Exclusive – Mushrooms Snails Ultra Soft Kids Rug
Materials | Cotton & Polyester
Prices Start At | $39.99
Why We Love It |
- These non-toxic rugs are dyed using dyes certified with the OEKO-TEX® 100 standard, ensuring safety and quality.
- Designed with a non-slip sole for added stability and safety.
- Free from harmful substances.
- With dust and stain-resistant properties, and a heat insulation feature.
- Rated 4.8/5 stars over 959 reviews such as “TI ordered 3 of them and my kids love them! They are so soft, beautiful, and good quality! I highly recommend!” Alice
8. Jazba – Handwoven Jute Area Rug
Materials | Natural Jute & Oeko-Tex® non-toxic certified
Prices Start At | $319
Why We Love It |
- Elevate your space with the timeless appeal of traditional and durable jute rugs.
- Handwoven by a collective of 200 skilled weavers in Panipat.
- Oeko-Tex® certified and sustainably made in a fair trade environment.
- Choose from a selection of five sizes to find the perfect fit for your home.
More Brands
9. Organic Weave – Erica Rug
Made from GOTS-certified materials and dyes.
10. Hook & Loom – Cotton Rugs
100% pure GOTS Certified organic cotton Rugs – Free from VOCS.
All photos credits belong to respective brands. The prices are the ones at the time of the article publication.
