Authentic cowhide rugs can be a stylish and practical addition to any space. Unlike those made from faux leather, they are hypoallergenic, highly durable, and easy to clean. They are unique enough to give you a one-of-a-kind piece due to their variations in color and pattern, but also versatile enough to fit into a wide range of styles that go beyond rustic décor.
As the demand for a reduction in animal products continues to grow, more people are objecting to the manufacture and sale of these products by retailers. One big petition in 2018 called on IKEA to stop its processing and selling of animal products. When dealing with a natural material like cowhide, it's important to know if it's real or fake, where it comes from, and how it is transformed into its final form as a décor piece.
Understanding IKEA's Cowhide Rugs
On every cowhide rug product page, IKEA provides information about where the materials are sourced and why. Cowhide as a material is produced during the manufacture and processing of beef, which is huge in the food industry. This means that IKEA takes a portion of the many "leftovers" and uses them to create something new.
While some regions have laws against primarily farming animals to make leather, it isn't always certain all over the world. Therefore, it helps when retailers can disclose where they get their products from. This is likely why the uniform sections on all the product pages also clarify IKEA's commitment to animal welfare.
The Processing and Treatment of Cowhide
The treatment and preparation of the cowhide for household use is also an important part of the process to be knowledgeable about. From the tanning to the dyeing, chemicals are involved for various purposes, such as removing the hair, softening the hide, and preserving it. However, these chemicals can be toxic, which is why IKEA shares information about their treatment process.
IKEA states: "Rest assured that our processing doesn't use chemicals or heavy metals that are harmful to humans or the environment."
Luxury Cattle Hide Rugs – Durable, Natural, & Elegantly Stylish
Product Details and Versatility
IKEA offers cowhide rugs that are designed to be versatile and easy to mix with different styles. They can be placed under a table, on their own in an open space, on a bench, or even hung on a wall. The expression on the textiles in this series is inspired by natural cowhides, adding a natural aesthetic to any decor, regardless of style and room.
Specific Product Information: Article Number 105.766.95 (Printed Cowhide Pattern)
This particular rug features a printed cowhide pattern, blending into both modern and rustic settings.
- Article Number: 105.766.95
- Materials and Care:
- Surface/Backing: 100% polyester (100% recycled)
- Inner layer: 100% Synthetic rubber
- Machine wash cold, durable-press cycle.
- Do not bleach.
- Do not tumble dry.
- Do not iron.
- Do not dry clean.
- Safety and Compliance:
- Tested for domestic use.
- Use STOPP FILT anti-slip rug underlay under the entire rug for increased safety.
- Measurements:
- Length: 6' 11"
- Width: 5' 11"
- Area: 27.56 sq feet
- Surface density: 3.74 oz/sq ft
- Packaging:
- Article Number: 105.766.95
- Width: 14"
- Height: 3"
- Length: 20"
- Weight: 7 lb 1 oz
- Package(s): 1
Specific Product Information: Genuine Cowhide Rugs (Various Article Numbers)
Genuine cowhide rugs from IKEA are characterized by their natural variations, making each piece unique. Marks, color, and size variations are natural characteristics of the leather and ensure that each cowhide is unique. The cowhide is naturally durable and is expected to last for many years.
- Article Numbers: 602.229.32 (Brown/Black/White variations), 402.229.33 (Light/Medium/Dark Brown variations)
- Hide Patterns: Vary in shades of black, dark brown, black/white, or light, medium, and dark brown. May also include smaller spots in white, black, or beige.
- Good to Know:
- All leather and skins found in the IKEA range are sourced as by-products from the food industry, meaning the whole animal is used.
- Skins and hides are treated without harmful chemicals or heavy metals.
- Hides naturally vary in size, typically between 71-78" in width and 78-86" in length. It is recommended to measure your intended floor space before purchasing.
- Use one STOPP anti-slip underlay if using on the floor. Trim if necessary.
- Materials and Care (Genuine Cowhide):
- Do not wash.
- Do not bleach.
- Do not tumble dry.
- Do not iron.
- Do not dry clean.
- Vacuum, shake, and rotate the rug regularly.
- Remove dried spots immediately by scraping carefully towards the middle of the spot.
- Do not rub wet spots; absorb moisture with paper towels and clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Professional carpet cleaning when needed.
- Always use the standard floorhead, never the rotating brush, when vacuuming the rug.
- Safety and Compliance:
- This product has been tested for domestic use.
- Measurements (Example for Article 602.229.32):
- Min. area: 32.29 sq feet
- Packaging (Example for Article 602.229.32):
- Article Number: 602.229.32
- Width: 21"
- Height: 3 ¼"
- Length: 28 ¼"
- Weight: 8 lb 7 oz
- Package(s): 1
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Customer feedback highlights the value and aesthetic appeal of IKEA cowhide rugs. Many appreciate the authentic look and feel, especially when compared to more expensive genuine leather options. The rugs are often described as comfortable, with pets frequently enjoying them.
Positive Feedback Highlights:
- Value for Money: Customers frequently mention the reasonable price, especially when compared to genuine leather alternatives.
- Appearance: The rugs are praised for their perfect bright colors and ability to enhance living spaces.
- Comfort: Many reviewers note the comfort of the rugs, with pets often found relaxing on them.
- Ease of Cleaning: Some reviews mention the ease of cleaning, with one user noting they can be machine washed (though caution is advised with pets).
- Versatility: The rugs are seen as suitable for various areas, including living rooms, master bathrooms, and even as backdrops for photos.
- Animal-Friendly Option: The rugs are appreciated as a beautiful animal-friendly alternative.
Areas for Consideration:
- Thickness: Some users found the rugs thinner than expected.
- Quality Concerns: A few reviews mention rugs looking worn or cheap after some use, suggesting they might be better suited for areas with less foot traffic.
- Wrinkling: One customer reported the rug arriving very wrinkled, with the creases not coming out easily.
- Color Variation: While natural variation is expected, some customers desired specific color patterns and found it challenging to select the perfect one in-store due to how they were folded.
Overall, the reviews suggest that IKEA cowhide rugs offer a good balance of style, quality, and affordability for many consumers.