8 Common Myths About Berber Rugs (And the Truth You Need to Know)

Table of Contents

• 1. Myth: All Moroccan Rugs Look the Same
• 2. Myth: Berber Rugs Are Difficult to Maintain
• 3. Myth: Handmade Rugs Are Beyond the Reach of the Average Person
• 4. Myth: Synthetic Rugs Are as Good as Wool Rugs
• 5. Myth: You Can’t Use Berber Rugs in Busy Homes
• 6. Myth: Only Vintage Rugs Are Better Than New Rugs
• 7. Myth: Berber Wool Rugs Are Only Appropriate for Bohemian Interiors
• 8. Myth: Cleaning Berber Rugs Is Complicated
• In Conclusion

1. Myth: All Moroccan Rugs Look the Same

It is believed by many that all Berber rugs, including Berber rugs, are similar in design.

Reality:

The Moroccan rugs are very many and diverse in design. For instance, Beni Ourain rugs are usually white with geometric designs, whereas Azilal rugs are more colorful and expressive. Every rug is a piece of art and is created by an artisan, and even within the same region, each rug will have its own story and artistry.

Pro Tip: Check out the different types and styles; you will be amazed at the variety that is available.

2. Myth: Berber Rugs Are Difficult to Maintain

Some people think that because Berber rugs are luxurious, then they must also be delicate or require a lot of maintenance.

Reality:

They’re surprisingly practical. Berber rugs are made of tightly woven wool, hence they are resistant to dirt and spills. With a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner and occasional use of a mild detergent to clean specific stains, most of the time will be sufficient. Due to their durability they tend to improve with age.

Pro Tip: Turn your rug over once in a while, especially in the areas with much traffic.

3. Myth: Handmade Rugs Are Beyond the Reach of the Average Person

Most people have the perception that handmade products are expensive.

Reality:

Although handmade rugs can be costly in the first place, they are worth the money in the long run. Unlike the factory made rugs that can only last for a short time, a Berber rug made by hand can be used for many years or even passed on to generations. Also, buying from direct ethical sources such as Berber Handicraft, you get to save on retail markups while helping support the artisans.

Pro Tip: Quality lasts. A well-made rug can serve your home for many years and may even be passed down from one generation to the next.

4. Myth: Synthetic Rugs Are as Good as Wool Rugs

The availability of synthetic rugs makes it rather tempting to believe that they are the same in quality.

Reality:

Not quite. Synthetic rugs may fade, shed or lose their shape and the worst part is that they release micro plastics and are not eco-friendly. On the other hand, wool rugs are eco-friendly, stain resistant, breathable and non-combustible. They bring character, warmth and texture that cannot be achieved with synthetics.

Pro Tip: If you are concerned about the quality and the impact on the environment, then wool is the way to go.

5. Myth: You Can’t Use Berber Rugs in Busy Homes

Do you have children, pets or heavy foot traffic? Some people think that Berber rugs are not suitable for families with kids or active lifestyle.

Reality:

They are. Berber rugs were created to be used in daily life in the houses located in the mountains. Their woolen fabric is quite dense and can withstand the pressure. Just put a rug pad under it to prevent slipping and damage to your floors.

Pro Tip: Try to go for darker colors or patterned rugs in high traffic areas as they are easier to hide marks and stains.

6. Myth: Only Vintage Rugs Are Better Than New Rugs

There is a notion that only vintage rugs are worth purchasing.

Reality:

However, new Berber rugs are no different from vintage ones; they are also made in the same way using the same techniques that have been learned through generations. They also provide more versatility in terms of size, style, and color which makes them more suitable for the current interior design.

Pro Tip: Look for quality rather than the age of the rug. A well made rug, new or old will always make a statement.

7. Myth: Berber Wool Rugs Are Only Appropriate for Bohemian Interiors

Some people have the impression that Berber wool rugs are only suitable for boho or eclectic decor.

Reality:

Berber rugs are very versatile. Their natural textures and neutral palettes make them suitable for modern, Scandinavian, rustic or even minimalist interiors. For instance, a classic Beni Ourain rug can add coziness and elegance to any room. Berber rugs work well across multiple design aesthetics because they do not belong to any particular design style.

8. Myth: Cleaning Berber Rugs Is Complicated

People would naturally assume that handmade wool rugs present cleaning difficulties.

Reality:

The maintenance process is easy to perform. Regular vacuuming combined with immediate spill blotting is necessary for proper care. Wool contains natural oils which give it resistance to dirt and odors. Use only gentle cleaning products and stay away from steam cleaners. Professional deep cleaning services should be scheduled every couple of years for the best results.

Before applying a cleaning solution to a stain test it by mixing soap with water in an area that will remain hidden.

Read more on how to clean your Berber rug

In Conclusion

Many people hold false beliefs about Berber rugs yet the facts prove they are functional and strong while being attractive and holding significant cultural value. These handmade wool rugs carry both historical significance and artistic value beyond their functional use as decorative elements.

Berber Handicraft exists to educate people about the exceptional qualities of these rugs. Our team stands ready to assist you from your initial rug purchase through to your final purchase whether you are new to rugs or experienced.

Check out our collection right now to find your perfect Moroccan rug.