The Beauty, Durability and Warmth of Deer Hide Rugs for Home Decor

The Beauty and Warmth of Deer Hide Rugs

Deer hide rugs add a rustic, natural element to any space. Made from the hides of deer, these rugs are not only beautiful but also extremely durable and long-lasting. Deer hides have a wonderful texture that feels great underfoot and provides insulation and warmth. The natural colors and patterns of deer hides create an organic, earthy look that complements many design styles. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of deer hide rugs and give tips on how to use them in your home decor.

The Natural Beauty of Deer Hides

Deer hides have a gorgeous, natural appearance that makes them stand out. Since no two deer have the exact same markings, each hide rug will be completely unique. The hides display subtle variations in color from rich browns to soft tans. They may be speckled or have distinctive streaks that add visual interest. When made into rugs, the hides are often kept whole with the hair still attached. This maintains their natural shape and shows off the beautiful markings.

Beyond just colors and patterns, deer hides have a distinct texture. The soft, nubby hairs give tactile appeal. Deer hide rugs are wonderfully textured underfoot, providing a feeling of comfort and warmth. When placed in a living space, they bring an organic, cozy element reminiscent of the natural world. For those wanting to add a rustic accent to their home, deer hides make an excellent choice.

The Durability and Longevity of Deer Hides

In addition to their visual beauty, deer hides also make incredibly durable rugs. The hides are naturally tough and resistant to wear. Deer regularly traverse rough terrain and their hides are able to withstand scrapes, scratches, and exposure to the elements. This makes them ideal for turning into long-lasting rugs that can handle regular use.

Properly cared for, deer hide rugs can last for many years. The hides do not fray or shed and hold up well to foot traffic. Deer hide rugs work especially nicely in high traffic areas like hallways, entryways, and family rooms. A rug made from deer hide adds beauty to a space while also standing up to constant use.

For those wanting an eco-friendly floor covering, deer hide rugs are a great choice. Since they can last for decades, they don't need to be replaced as often as synthetic rugs. Their longevity makes them a more sustainable option.

Adding Warmth with Deer Hide Rugs

Deer hide rugs make an excellent addition for adding warmth to a space. The hides provide natural insulation, perfect for placing in rooms with cold, hard flooring. In the winter, the rugs help retain heat while also feeling wonderful underfoot. Deer hair has air pockets that trap warm air close to the floor. The result is a noticeably warmer space that is still stylish.

For bedrooms, living rooms, and dens, a deer hide rug can make the room much cozier. The subtle, natural colors along with the soft texture and warmth are perfect for relaxing spaces. Along with their decorative appeal, the rugs have a very practical use helping to keep a room more comfortable.

Deer hides work great as accent rugs in front of fireplaces or heating vents. They spread warmth to the surrounding floor space. A rug made of sturdy and insulating deer hide is an excellent way to make a seating area more enjoyable.

Tips for Decorating With Deer Hide Rugs

Here are some helpful tips on incorporating deer hide rugs into home decor:

Choose the Right Size Rug

Deer hides come in a range of sizes from small accent rugs to large, room-spanning rugs. Decide what purpose you want the rug to serve before selecting a size. Smaller rugs work nicely in front of fireplaces or next to beds. For dining rooms or living spaces, a rug large enough for furniture works best. Measure the room and purchase a rug scaled to fit the space.

Find a Rug with an Appealing Color and Pattern

Deer hides have gorgeous natural variation that adds to their beauty. Look for a rug with coloring and markings that appeal to your style sensibility. Richer brown hues with minimal spotting offer a classic look. If you want more visual interest, seek out hides with bolder streaks or speckles. Lay out a few options to compare before deciding on a rug.

Pair with Rustic, Lodge Style Decor

The organic textures and earthy colors of deer hide rugs pair beautifully with rustic and lodge aesthetics. Use your deer hide rug alongside elements like solid wood furniture, leather seating, antler accents, and stone fireplaces. This type of decor helps accentuate the cozy, handcrafted look of the rug.

Care for the Hide Properly

While durable, deer hide rugs still require some care. Keep them out of direct sunlight to avoid fading. Gently vacuum on a low setting to remove dust and dirt. Every so often, reshape the rug by hand to maintain its look. With occasional cleaning and reshaping, a quality deer hide rug will provide beauty and enjoyment for years.

The Unique Beauty of Deer Hide Rugs

Deer hide rugs provide unmatched beauty, durability, warmth, and style. Made from the hides of deer, these rugs boast gorgeous natural color variations, a wonderful texture, and lasting strength. They bring warmth and coziness to any space while also standing up well to regular use. With some tips on properly incorporating them, deer hide rugs make an excellent addition to many different decor styles. Their organic look and sturdy nature give them wide appeal.

FAQs

How are deer hide rugs made?

Deer hides are tanned and treated to create durable leather. The hides are then cut and stitched to the desired size and shape. Many rugs use the whole deer skin so the natural shape is maintained. The hide's hair is left in place for softness and appearance.

What's the best way to clean a deer hide rug?

Use a soft brush or gentle vacuum setting to regularly remove dust and dirt from the rug. Every so often, reshape and smooth out the hide by hand to keep its look. For deeper cleaning, use a small amount of mild soap and water applied gently with a sponge or cloth. Let the hide air dry.

How long do deer hide rugs last?

With proper care and maintenance, a quality deer hide rug can last upwards of 20-30 years. The hides are naturally durable and resistant to wear and tear. Place the rug in an area without direct sunlight and care for it regularly for maximum longevity.

Are deer hide rugs eco-friendly?

Yes, deer hide rugs are considered an environmentally friendly floor covering option. Since they last for decades, they don't need replacing as often as synthetic rugs. The hides make use of material that would otherwise go to waste.

Can deer hide rugs be used in high traffic areas?

Definitely. The durable nature of deer hides makes them ideal for placement in high traffic areas. They hold up extremely well to consistent foot traffic from people and pets. Use them in entryways, hallways, family rooms and other busy spaces.