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How to make sustainable flooring choices at home in 2024

By: Samantha, Published: August 18, 2022 Open Living Area with Elegant Grey Carpey

Selecting new flooring is an exciting time, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. What colour, style, and material will best suit your home? How much will it cost? And in today’s world, sustainability is another key factor for many homeowners. Are there eco-friendly options available, and what should you consider to make the best choice for your home and the environment? Here’s an in-depth guide to sustainable flooring options, covering everything from timber flooring to floor rugs, and tips on how to care for them to ensure longevity.

Timber Flooring: A Natural, Sustainable Choice

Timber flooring stands out as one of the most sustainable flooring options available. It’s not only timeless and elegant but also incredibly durable, often lasting decades with proper care. A key benefit of timber floor boards is their ability to be repaired and restored, which means you won’t need to replace them entirely if it sustains damage.

Many Australian species are celebrated for their unique grain patterns and natural beauty. Additionally, the production of timber flooring requires less energy compared to synthetic alternatives, further enhancing its eco-friendly credentials. To keep your timber floors looking their best, regular maintenance is essential. Sweeping and vacuuming to remove dirt and grit will help prevent scratches. For deeper cleaning, use a damp (not wet) mop, and avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.

Quick-Step Massimo Frozen Oak Extra Matt MAS3562H_612x420 Quick-Step Massimo in “Frozen Oak Extra Matt”

Wool Carpet: Luxurious and Eco-Friendly

If you’re considering carpet, wool is an excellent sustainable option. Wool carpet is a natural, renewable, and biodegradable resource that offers numerous benefits. Its natural fire resistance and insulating properties make it ideal for cosy spaces like bedrooms and living areas. Wool is also a great choice for those looking for a softer, luxurious feel underfoot. In addition to being environmentally friendly, wool carpet is durable, with a long lifespan when properly maintained. This longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a smarter choice for both your wallet and the planet.

Safari Wool Carpeted Lounge with Coffee Table & Sheer Curtains Safari Hotel in “Ripples”

Floor Rugs: Adding Style and Sustainability

Floor rugs are a versatile way to enhance your home’s aesthetic while also being mindful of the environment. Wool rugs, much like wool carpets, are an eco-conscious choice that offers durability and comfort. For a textured, natural look, jute rugs are an excellent option. Jute is a fast-growing, biodegradable material that adds warmth and a rustic charm to your interiors.

Rugs are not just decorative—they can also help protect underlying flooring, reducing wear and tear on timber or tiles. This can extend the lifespan of your primary flooring and enhance your home’s overall sustainability. To keep your rugs in great condition, regular cleaning is essential. Vacuum them weekly, paying attention to both sides of the rug to remove dust and allergens. For spills, blot the affected area immediately with a clean cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Avoid soaking the rug, as excess moisture can weaken the fibres.

Atrium jute floor rug round coastal house Atrium Rug in “Natural Shapes Pilu”

Underlay: The Unsung Hero of Sustainable Flooring

Carpet underlay plays a critical role in sustainability. It not only improves the comfort and acoustics of your carpet but also protects it from wear and tear, significantly extending its lifespan. Flooring Xtra uses Dunlop’s Envirotred, a high-performance underlay made from 90% recycled materials and 100% recyclable. By choosing a sustainable underlay, you’re making an environmentally responsible decision while enhancing the performance of your carpet.

Envirotred carpet underlay Dunlop Envirotred

Buy once buy well

Sustainability isn’t just about the materials used—it’s about how long your flooring lasts and how often it needs to be replaced. Choosing high-quality, durable products and maintaining them properly reduces waste and saves you money in the long run. Flooring Xtra’s team of experts can help you select flooring that suits your lifestyle and needs, ensuring you invest in a product that stands the test of time.

timber floors with sheer curtains, brick wall and modern furniture Oak Collection Newport Oak Brushed

Care and Cleaning

Maintaining your flooring—whether it’s timber flooring, carpet, or rugs—is vital to extending its life. Dirt and debris can scratch hard floors and wear down carpet fibres. Adopt a “shoes-off” policy at home to reduce the transfer of outdoor dirt. Regular vacuuming and cleaning will keep your flooring looking fresh and prevent premature damage.

For more specific care tips, consult Flooring Xtra’s comprehensive guides on Carpet Care and Hard Flooring Guide and Care. 

By making thoughtful choices and prioritising sustainability, you can create a home that is stylish, durable, and environmentally friendly. Visit your nearest Flooring Xtra store to explore a wide range of timber flooring, wool carpets, and floor rugs, all designed with sustainability in mind.

FAQs

Are timber floors high maintenance?

Timber floors sit higher on the maintenance scale in the hard flooring world. But while laminate flooring, vinyl and hybrid flooring might require less maintenance, all flooring requires some level of care to keep it looking like new for longer. The look and feel of real timber is also aspirational, authentic and full of genuine character which can last for years if cared for. It also has the ability to be repaired in many cases, which is why we see beautiful old homes with original (restored, often) flooring.

Where is there a rug store near me?

The Flooring Xtra rug store means you can choose a rug online and have it sent directly to you! With so many options to select from and free delivery, it’s a great way to shop.

What are the benefits of professional flooring installers?

Deciding what new flooring you will install at home is a big deal! There is a lot to consider and it’s an investment which is why it’s important to get the installation done by the professionals- they know what they are doing and are incredibly knowledgable. They have all the right tools, they can problem solve, drawing on years of experience and get things done promptly. Each Flooring Xtra store has its own professional installers so you can relax while the experts get the job done!

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Samantha

Product Coordinator

Our Product Coordinator Sam knows a thing or two about carpet and hard flooring. Her expert knowledge ranges from specific material details, product technology and trends to what products work best and where. In other words, Sam’s practical advice and insights are worth their weight in gold! Sam’s favourite product is Misty Cove carpet because it’s like stepping onto a plush haven of softness. It’s also elegant and luxurious underfoot!

Want some expert advice?

From inspiration to installation and beyond, Flooring Xtra are here to help. If you’re uncertain what product will work best in your home or fit your budget the team are delighted to assist. Choosing new flooring is a big decision so whether it’s hard flooring or carpet you’re looking for, know that Flooring Xtra will have the perfect option for you! VISIT your nearest store

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