Vintage floor rug - Pleasure Blue/Black Vertou

Viscose is derived from wood pulp and processed into a fibre with a subtle sheen, giving the surface a refined finish, though the same production process leaves the fibre vulnerable to water and friction. Viscose is also naturally hypoallergenic.

Blot a spill with a dry cloth, avoid soft soap, this damages the glossy fibre. Do not walk on the rug in shoes, and always use a nonslip rug underlay: it keeps the rug in place and extends its lifespan.

The chenille weave gives the yarn a soft, slightly textured feel with a subtle sheen that shifts depending on the viewing angle, giving the rug a dense, soft feel underfoot.

Vacuum regularly on low suction and blot a spill immediately with a damp cloth, so the soft weave stays intact. With a cotton or rayon base fibre, blot sooner rather than later: these absorb moisture faster, so a spill would otherwise work further in.

Cotton is a natural plant fibre with a matte, understated look that may shed slightly in the first few weeks; this is normal and settles down with regular vacuuming. Cotton naturally absorbs a little more dirt and moisture than a synthetic rug, part of its natural character, which is also why the strong fibre is often used as a backing on other rugs.

Regular vacuuming reduces shedding on a new cotton rug. Blot a spill immediately with a damp cloth: cotton absorbs moisture quickly, so a spill would otherwise work further in. Keep the rug out of direct sunlight to slow down fading. A nonslip rug underlay keeps the rug in place and extends its lifespan.