At Knot n’ Co, we know how important a statement rug for your home is.

One of the largest global retailers out there is IKEA, and its selection of ‘Persian rugs’ continues to be one of the most popular in Australia for modern homeowners seeking style on a budget.  

As providers of Persian rugs in Australia, the care and ingenuity of a traditional Persian rug have been lauded for centuries.

Whether it be their quality, durability and investment potential, or the cultural history and stories each piece holds, it’s no wonder these timeless rugs have earned a spot in homes around the world.

In this article, we will break down the pros and cons of both IKEA Persian-style rugs and traditional Persian rugs, so you can be fully informed before choosing which makes the most sense for you, your home, and your budget.

What Are IKEA Persian Rugs?

While IKEA stocks a range of rugs in the ‘Persian Rug’ style, they are not Persian Rugs.

Why can’t they be considered as such?

Well, they aren’t handwoven, often do not use natural materials, are mostly machine-made, and do not originate from what was the Persian Empire (modern-day Iran). 

A traditional Persian rug is meticulously crafted from natural materials, including silk and wool.

It often boasts an array of vibrant colours that are also derived from natural sources such as vegetable dyes.

Each rug is a labour of love and is handwoven using ancient techniques passed down through generations.

IKEA Rugs : Pros & Cons

At its core, IKEA has become one of the most popular retailers of rugs in Australia due to their affordability, range of styles, and easy-to-clean materials that make it perfect for the everyday budget-conscious homeowner. 

Their range of Persian-style rugs does, however, come at an attractive price point, compared to many other authentic Persian rug retailers in Australia. 

However, with lower costs come a set of considerations that you’ll also need to account for when weighing up the right choice for you and your family. 

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of IKEA Persian rugs.

Pros of IKEA Persian-Style Rugs Cons of IKEA Persian-Style Rugs
Affordability : Offers tremendous value for money with a range of designs Not Persian Rugs : Mass-produced and machine-made, not hand-knotted or authentic
Aesthetics : A wide range of designs to suit various tastes and home layouts Quality Fluctuation : Lower overall quality compared to traditional handmade Persian rugs, due to the use of synthetic materials and dyes
Easy to Source : Available both online and in-store, making them easy to locate and purchase No Appreciation : Unlike traditional rugs, IKEA Persian rugs do not appreciate in value
Easy to Look After : Simple care instructions, like absorbing liquids with a paper towel and using mild detergent Long-Term Durability : Mass-produced with synthetic fibres, leading to less durability and longevity
Easy to Replace : Low cost makes replacing worn, or stained rugs very easy One of Many : Lacks the uniqueness of traditional Persian rugs, which are often considered individual artworks


Traditional Persian Rugs : Pros & Cons

Guaranteed Original Vintage Beige Persian Kashan Wool Rug 405cm x 290cm in the city of Kashan, Iran Beautiful traditional design with centre medallion Rare colour mix of green, olive, blues and beige/white Having a light and dark side is a trademark of Handmade Rugs Durable and Wear Resistant Suitable for High Traffic Areas All Colours in This Piece Originate from Natural Vegetable Dyes

Traditional Persian rugs are so highly lauded for a good number of reasons.

The first is that they are a true work of art that many families treasure and pass down from generation to generation.

They are not just something to cover your floor or add a little character to a room.

Instead, they are a rich body of textile skill, mixing significant beauty with both cultural and historical significance. 

These rugs usually take significant time to create, and are pieced together by highly skilled rug weavers and textile artists.

With this comes a higher price tag, making them at times a significant purchase for a family or individual; however, is this price worth it for the true artistic investment you are making?

So, exactly what are the pros and cons of a traditional Persian rug, and is it an investment that you should make for your home?

Pros of Traditional Persian Rugs Cons of Traditional Persian Rugs
A Work of Art : Each rug is unique, hand-knotted, and reflects the artist’s style and cultural heritage The Price Tag : High upfront cost due to the craftsmanship and materials involved
As Durable As They Come : Hand-made using high-quality materials (wood, cotton, silk), ensuring longevity and durability Feel and Texture : Can feel less soft compared to machine-made rugs; a rug pad may be needed for added comfort
Valuable Investment : Persian rugs increase in value over time, especially if well-maintained, offering long-term financial gains Slight Imperfections : Minor imperfections in colours, shapes, or designs due to the handmade process
Environmentally Friendly : Made with natural materials, including natural dyes, making them eco-friendly and free of synthetic chemicals Placement Sensitivity : Sensitive to light, humidity, and heavy traffic, which can lead to fading or mould growth
Appropriate For All Settings : Versatile in design, size, and colour, adding elegance to any space, from minimalist to vibrant rooms Size Constraints : Because they are handmade, finding a specific large or unusual size can be difficult and expensive

 

Traditional Rugs vs IKEA Rugs in Australia : How to Choose the Right Option

There is no clear-cut answer to which is the right choice between an IKEA rug or a traditional Persian rug; it comes down to what it is that you value most.

Each serves a different purpose, and each has its own set of strengths, weaknesses, and budgetary considerations.

You need to think really hard about what it is that you truly want out of your Persian rug. 

At Knot n’ Co, we value the timeless elegance and creative ingenuity that traditional hand-made Persian rugs bring, but also understand that it isn’t always in the budget for an individual or a family. 

If you are looking for long-term value, authentic craftsmanship, and timeless, high-quality pieces of art that can be passed down through multiple generations, then a traditional Persian rug is exactly what you’re looking for.

But be prepared that there will be a higher price tag involved; it’s an investment that many see as worthwhile. 

We are also not discounting the Persian-style rugs that IKEA has to offer, as they definitely serve a purpose, and their high volume of sales is evidence of this.

If you are looking for an accessible price point, simplified patterns that suit almost any environment and a rug that requires little to no maintenance, then IKEA’s range of Persian-style rugs is a fantastic choice.

However, keep in the back of your mind that these rugs do not carry the depth, value, and timelessness of genuine traditional Persian rugs.

At the end of the day, you need to pick the Persian rug that fits your set of goals, whether that be budgetary, aesthetic, or investing, and remember, you can always choose to have both.

Persian Rug Care Guide : How to Maintain and Protect Your Rug

Traditional Persian rugs and IKEA Persian rugs both require levels and methods of maintenance and care; we have broken it down into two easy tables to follow.

Best Practices for Traditional and IKEA Persian Rugs :

Traditional Persian Rug IKEA Rug
Vacuum very gently one to twice a week on low suction Vacuum regularly using whatever setting you prefer
Rotate your Persian rug every 6 to 12 months to ensure even wear over time Spot clean the rug using mild detergent and water
If possible, keep the rug out of direct sunlight to prevent the colours from fading over time You can use rug pads when necessary to prevent rug slippage and wear over time
If spillages occur, blot them immediately with a clean, dry cloth and never rub the spot Follow the instructions provided by IKEA, whether with the product when you bought it or online
Book a professional cleaner every 3 to 5 years Machine wash every once in awhile, if possible according to IKEA

 

Avoid These Practices for Traditional and IKEA Persian Rugs :

Traditional Persian Rug IKEA Persian Rug
Never steam clean or use harsh chemicals on a traditional Persian rug Never wash or dry an IKEA rug on high heat settings
Hire a professional to clean the rug, and avoid DIY washing or soaking As the materials are often synthetic it is better to avoid harsh stain removers that could damage fibres
Avoid placing your Persian rug in damp or humid areas that have little to no airflow Never leave a spill or stain untreated as it will become incredibly difficult to remove

 

Why Choose Knot n’ Co for Your Persian Rug?

At Knot n’ Co, we pride ourselves on delivering Australia’s best Persian rugs.

Whether it’s a timeless classic or a contemporary masterpiece, our range of premium quality rugs will help to transform any space into a work of art.

Shop our range of Persian rugs, Afghan rugs, and Kilim rugs today.

If you wish to ask a question or enquire about a product, you can click here or call us on 0420 940 400.