It’s no secret that choosing rugs when you have pets around can be a challenge. Whether you’re searching for a welcome mat, runner, or large area rug, you want something that stands up to everything your pet can dish out. Jute rugs have gained lots of popularity recently in homes with pets thanks to their durability, eco-friendly material, and easy upkeep.
For these reasons, jute is also a favorite pick for litter mats. But what is it exactly about a jute mat that makes it so popular? Why should you get one for your home?
What Are the Benefits of Jute Mats?
What’s the big deal about jute rugs? What are they exactly? The fibers in these rugs come from the jute plant which is native to certain areas of Bangladesh and India. It seems it’s everywhere these days when it comes to floor coverings, whether a simple bath mat or a massive area rug. But there’s a good reason for the growing popularity.
Jute has lots of things going for it when it comes to pets, which is why it’s become a go-to choice for pet-specific products, like litter mats. You’ll also find it in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles, making it easy to match any home design.
Whether you’re shopping for a new rug or a litter-trapping mat, here are six reasons to consider a jute mat when you’re pet-proofing your home.
1. Jute Is Very Durable
The thick fibers in jute rugs make them extremely durable. Jute is one of the strongest vegetable fibers, used for many different purposes, especially those requiring lots of strength, like rope and burlap. The other places jute often ends up are in various floor coverings.
These sturdy rugs hold up well against tough paws and scratching, making them a great pick for dogs and cats. And since they’re so durable, you can expect to have your jute mat for a long time, saving you money in the long run.
2. Jute Mats Are Easy to Clean
Who likes to spend hours and hours cleaning? Nobody! So if you have pets, you undoubtedly want home accessories and pet products that are easy to clean and have little upkeep. Jute mats fit the bill.
They have minimal shedding, and regular vacuuming is pretty much all these rugs need to stay clean and tidy. It’s also easy to remove pet hairs from the fibers.
Depending on the foot (and paw) traffic in the area, vacuum your jute mat once or twice a week. For a small litter mat, shake it out regularly and vacuum it weekly.
If you end up with a spill, use dry methods for stain removal. It’s best to avoid getting jute wet as much as possible to avoid potential discoloration. Instead, use a dry carpet shampoo or baking soda for absorbing stains and deodorizing.
3. It's an Eco-Friendly Option
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), “Jute fibre is 100% biodegradable and recyclable.” These qualities make it extremely environmentally friendly and the perfect choice for eco-conscious consumers who strive for sustainable homes.
When it is time to bid farewell to your jute rug, recycle it to maintain your eco-friendly footprint. If your local recycling program doesn’t accept rugs, check the Carpet America Recovery Effort to find locations near you that take rugs.
4. Jute Is Comfortable
Some natural fiber rugs can feel scratchy or coarse, but jute rugs tend to be much softer than other natural picks, like sisal. The 100% natural fibers in jute rugs make them soft and comfy on human feet and pet paws.
In addition, the fibers used in jute rugs come from the jute plant’s stem, not the leaves, contributing to the softness. Therefore, your pup or kitty will love to take a snooze on a cozy jute rug.
5. No Stray Threads That Tangle and Catch
Jute rugs don’t have fringe, shaggy fabrics, or other materials that pull, snag, or catch. Plus, natural fiber rugs are tightly woven together to make them extra durable and snag-proof.
You don’t have to worry about your furry friend getting caught in an uncomfortable predicament. No more fretting about a stray thread twisting around a claw or paw. Your fur baby can play, roll, scoot, and lounge to their heart's content both comfortably and safely.
6. Jute Rugs Are Aesthetically Pleasing
Jute is a great addition to any home design, providing a warm, inviting element to your space. The natural material also provides a very textural component to the room, adding an extra layer of visual interest. It’s easy to incorporate a jute rug into many different design styles.
A Closer Look at Neater Pet’s Jute Litter Trapping Mat
The Neater Pets Jute Litter Trapping Mat features maximum durability and easy maintenance so it’s a breeze to keep your feline friend’s litter area clean. The tightly woven fibers catch the litter your cat kicks off their paws, instead of it ending up all over your floors (and the bottom of your feet).
This quality makes it easy for you to shake litter back into the box instead of letting it go to waste. Recycling clean litter this way allows you to save money, which is always a big bonus.
The mat measures 24 inches by 36 inches and is available in beige, a checkered pattern, or a cute paw print pattern. Anti-slip backing on the bottom of the mat keeps it in place so your kitty won’t slip and slide as they enter and exit their litter box.
Not just for litter, this mat can also be used as a doormat to collect dirt and debris from your pet's paws when they come back inside after a walk.
Two Paws Up for Jute Mats
Jute is an overall excellent choice for your rugs if you have pets. It’s comfortable, beautiful, durable, and easy to clean.
Choosing a jute mat for your cat’s litter area protects your floors and keeps your cat’s litter area tidy. And it does all this while staying soft and comfy on your cat’s paws. You don’t have to worry about your cat pulling or snagging the mat as they claw and kick litter off their feet thanks to the durable fibers.
For more helpful tips on great products for your pets and how to take the very best care of your furry friends, check out the rest of the Neater Pets blog. We’re always adding more ways for you to become a phenomenal pet parent and help you raise happy, healthy fur babies.