Skip to content Rugs play a major role in grounding a space, adding texture, and enhancing the overall design aesthetic. While wool and woven textiles have long been popular choices, leather rugs have become a favorite among designers seeking elevated, durable, and sustainable leather for interior design.
Below, we compare leather rugs to traditional textile rugs—highlighting key differences that matter in hospitality and residential interiors alike.
Leather rugs come in several high-end styles:
Because leather is sourced through a leather hide supplier or wholesale leather distributor, it is considered an upcycled material — aligning with green-building design goals.
Leather rugs outperform traditional rugs in high-traffic areas. Unlike textile fibers, leather doesn’t fray or pill and retains its structure far longer.
This makes leather particularly valuable for:
Leather rugs are significantly easier to clean. Liquids wipe off quickly, and leather does not absorb odors like textiles can.
Hotels looking for long-lasting, easy-to-maintain materials often partner with a best leather supplier for this reason.
Leather provides a one-of-a-kind look thanks to natural grain, color depth, unique hide patterns, and optional hair-on texture. Textile rugs can mimic the look—but never truly match its richness.
Leather is a by-product of the food industry. When sourced from a responsible leather hide supplier, it supports eco-conscious interior design goals.
Traditional synthetic rugs, by contrast, often rely on petroleum-based fibers.
Textile rugs (especially wool or shag) feel softer than smooth leather rugs. For spaces needing maximum plushness, shearling rugs provide the best compromise.
Keleen’s ultrasonic-cut ENVISION technology allows designers to create rugs in virtually any shape. Textile rugs are more limited.
Leather rugs are frequently used in:
Designers sourcing leather for interior design often choose leather rugs to complement leather seating, leather walls, or other custom elements.
This is a common question. Vinyl can imitate the look of leather, but the performance, breathability, and luxury feel of genuine leather cannot be replicated.
The same applies when comparing leather vs bonded leather — real leather is far superior for rugs, durability, and longevity.
Leather rugs provide unmatched durability, elegance, and sustainability. While textile rugs offer softness and lower cost, they cannot compete with the longevity, richness, and timeless luxury of genuine leather.
For designers, architects, and hospitality professionals sourcing materials from a leather supplier NYC, leather supplier Chicago, or leather supplier Los Angeles, Keleen Leathers offers world-class options in both rugs and hides.
If you’re exploring interior design leather products or comparing wholesale leather sources, leather rugs are a standout choice for both form and function.
