Discover the Beauty and Durability of Faux Sisal Rugs

At first glance, faux sisal rugs look nearly identical to their natural counterparts. Their tight flatweave, subtle sheen and beautiful woven texture closely mimic the appearance of real plant-based fibers. But faux sisal rugs are actually made from high-performance materials like UV-stabilized polypropylene, which makes them not only durable but incredibly versatile.

Unlike traditional sisal, which is made from agave plant fibers, faux sisal is designed to stand up to life’s messier moments. It resists moisture, stains and fading, making it a perfect pick for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

One of the main drawbacks of natural sisal rugs is their sensitivity to moisture. Because they’re made from dried plant materials, they tend to absorb liquids quickly, making spills difficult to clean and often leaving behind watermarks. That’s why it’s typically recommended to keep natural sisal out of bathrooms, kitchens and any other area prone to humidity or spills.

Faux sisal removes that limitation entirely. You get the same refined, woven look—without any of the worry. These rugs are ideal for patios, porches and entryways, but they also shine inside the home in high-traffic areas like hallways, mudrooms and family rooms. They’re resistant to fading in the sun and easy to clean, all while maintaining a soft, natural feel underfoot.

Why we love them:

- UV-resistant and fade-proof

-Mold- and mildew-resistant

-Comfortable texture with a natural look

-Incredibly durable in both indoor and outdoor settings

-Low-profile and easy to layer with other rugs

If you’ve ever flipped through a design magazine and admired the breezy, layered look of a room, there’s a good chance a natural-fiber rug played a role in creating the look. Faux sisal lets you recreate that designer style—without any of the maintenance concerns.

Faux sisal rugs blend effortlessly into a range of decor styles, from coastal chic to modern minimalist. Their neutral tones and subtle texture make them a versatile base for layering or a grounding element in a more vibrant space.

Here are some decorating ideas to get inspired: 

-In the living room, pair with wood furniture and linen textiles for a relaxed, natural vibe.

-Try them out in a dining area, where the low pile will make it easy to pull out chairs without catching.

-Try it in hallways or the entryway, which will add an extra layer of warmth, all while standing up to foot traffic.

-Outdoors, use a faux sisal rug under your patio furniture to define the space and give it that “finished” indoor-outdoor look.

-Layer a smaller patterned or colorful rug on top to create visual depth and dimension.

Keeping your faux sisal rug looking great is simple. A little bit of regular care goes a long way. This low-maintenance upkeep is one of the biggest reasons people fall in love with them! Here are a few easy tips for maintaining your rug.

Routine care:

-Vacuum often. Aim for once or twice a week in busy areas to keep dirt and debris from embedding in the weave.

-Rotate regularly. Every few months, turn your rug to ensure even wear and prevent fading in one area.

-Act fast on spills. The sooner you treat a stain, the better your results.

Spot cleaning 101:

1. Gently remove solids with a spoon or dull utensil—always work from the outside in.

2. Blot liquids immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, which can set stains.

3. Use a mild cleaner on a damp cloth to dab the area gently. Test any cleaner in an inconspicuous spot first.

4. Rinse lightly with water and blot until dry. Make sure the rug dries completely before placing furniture back on it.

For an occasional refresh, use a wet vacuum or bring in a professional cleaning service. With consistent, light care, your faux sisal rug will stay beautiful and functional for years to come.

Need help choosing a design? Here are a few of the most-loved faux sisal styles from our custom rug collection:

Humphrey

A timeless flatweave with subtle tonal shifts that add rich dimension. Available in soft neutrals, Humphrey is a chameleon—equally at home in contemporary or traditional spaces.

Jude

Jude brings a crisp, tailored look with a tight weave and small-scale striped pattern. Its neutral-toned palette offers warmth without overpowering your space.

Cordelia

Cordelia pairs a classic diamond pattern with a sleek flatweave for a look that’s simple yet striking. Durable and easy to clean, this versatile style brings timeless charm indoors and out.

Marci Salt

If you love understated elegance, Marci Salt delivers. Its tightly woven fibers and soft, warm coloring make it a standout choice for high-traffic areas.

Think faux sisal might be the right fit for your space? Here at Ernesta, we make it easy to bring your vision to life with custom-sized rugs designed to fit your lifestyle—and your room—perfectly.

Here’s how to get started:

Order samples. Choose from over 200 styles, and get 12" x 12" samples delivered straight to your door. See how the color and texture look in different lighting and against your existing furniture.

Get credit. When you order 5 samples, you’ll receive a $50 credit toward your final rug purchase.

Take your time. There’s no rush! Live with the samples for a few days to make sure you love your choice.

Measure and order. Once you’ve found the perfect style, we’ll help you take accurate measurements and finalize your custom order. (Need tips? Click here for our rug measuring guide.)

Your custom faux sisal rug will arrive in as little as two weeks—made to order, just for you.