Looking for the best cowhide rugs? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve rounded up our top recommendations, complete with a buying guide to help you make the best choice for your home.
Like many, you might think of cowhide rugs as something that your grandpa would have in his den. But the truth is, cowhide rugs have not and won’t go out of place.
They’re stylish and versatile, and they add a touch of luxury to any space. Additionally, they’re easy to care for and can last for years, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas. They are also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them a good option for people with allergies.
We’ve clocked up research hours for you and rounded up our top picks based on considerations such as material, purpose, texture and color.
So whether you’re looking for something to cozy up your living room or bring some flair to your bedroom, there’s a cowhide rug out there that’s udderly perfect for your home!
Keep reading for:
- Top 9 Picks
- Materials used in cowhide rugs
- Care of cowhide rugs
- Size of cowhide rugs
- Patterns of cowhide rugs
- FAQ
Top 9 Picks
When you’re looking for the best cowhide rug for your home, there are a few things to consider. First, does the rug fit with your aesthetic and match the decor in the room? Second, is it responsibly sourced and produced? Third, is it durable enough to stand up to daily wear and tear? Based on these criteria, here’s our list of the best cowhide rugs.
- Best overall
- Best value
- Best modern solid
- Best spotted
- Best patterned
- Best patch work
- Best tri color
- Best zebra
- Best for small spaces or bath room
Best Overall: Arogan Oversized Faux Cow Hides Rug
The Arogan Oversized Faux Cow Hides Rug oozes a premium feel with its rich colors and smooth velvety texture. Whether to make a statement or add old world appeal to your living space, the rug is the perfect accent for any theme. Due to its shed free and waterproof properties, this faux hide rug is easy to care for and suitable for busy households. It comes in 3 different colors and sizes.
Specs:
- Material: Suede
- Pile: High
- Size: Various
Pros:
- Versatile style for any theme
- Unique speckled design that look realistic
- Easy to clean and long lasting
- Comes with waterproof non-slip backing, suitable for busy households
Cons:
- Reviews indicate white patches need regular maintenance as it attracts dirt
- Though the rug states a high pile, reviews indicate it feels thin underfoot. Consider a rug pad for anti slip or cushion for extra padding.
Reviews:
- “Have gotten so many compliments on this rug. It looks like real cowhide and is the perfect texture. Honestly does look real. I would buy this rug for every room in my house.” Miranda Nicol
- “The white spots can attract dirt easily, so make sure you take your shoes off in the house if you don’t already. I’ve noticed that it does well with my cats’ claws too which is a plus. I may buy a rug mat to go under it and cut it to the right shape to make it squishy—this is by no means a “comfortable” rug; it’s very thin. I did my best to make sure the close-up photo was the “truest” to color in person.” Kimberly
Best Value: Iraida Contemporary Faux Cowhide Area Rug
The nuLOOM Iraida Contemporary Faux Cowhide Area Rug teases sophistication with its gold flakes while maintaining its rustic charm. It is constructed with toxic-free synthetic fibers and is made to be highly resilient against wear and tear. With its medium pile, It is easy to clean and offers a soft fur-like texture.
Specs:
- Material: Polyester and acrylic
- Pile: Medium
- Size: Various
Pros:
- Easy care and only requires shaking off the dirt and spot-treating mild stains
- Built to last
- Sleek and stylish with a contemporary style
- Affordable prices
Cons:
- Reviewed to be a little thin underfoot
- Creases take time to flatten as it is made of synthetic fibers
Reviews:
- “I love this rug. Just as described and the colors are beautiful.” Mommyof2
- “Very Nice rug. It’s a bit thin and weightless so needs to be under coffee table or something to keep it from losing its shape. Especially if placed on wood or vinyl floors. My dogs love it so I had to place it under furniture to keep it from sliding across the floor.” Gina4OSU
Best Modern: CB2 Cowhide Light Brown Rug
This genuine Cowhide Light Brown Cowhide Area Rug from CB2 is sustainably sourced from Argentina and offers a beautiful texture that is unique. Each hide is one of a kind in its shape, size and tones. Perfect for layering and bringing magazine worthy looks to your home, it is no wonder that this cowhide rug is one of the most popular on CB2!
Specs:
- Material: 100% cowhide
- Pile: Zero
- Size: 5’ x 8’ (approximate)
Pros:
- One of a kind texture and tone
- Long lasting natural material
- Sustainably sourced
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Delivery expected to take longer as design is highly popular
- Recommended to have all surface rug pad as it is thin underfoot
Reviews:
- “Looks Great. I bought this a month ago. Needed an asymmetrical rug in the master bedroom and this one is the perfect accent.” Toddeindc
- “I love it! It’s totally perfect and makes the room feel like a pulled-together room in a magazine instead of where I hang out on the couch. I was nervous about online ordering but the color was as expected.” Meg K
Best Spotted: Pottery Barn Speckled Cowhide Rug
Hand-selected from Brazil’s most notable tanneries, the Speckled Cowhide Rug from Pottery Barn is guaranteed to give your home a soft rich feel. As with handcrafted rugs from natural cowhide, you can also be sure that the rug design is exclusive to you. Maintenance is easy as real cow hides are naturally resistant to stains and spills. With proper care, this fine hide will offer many years of luster and warmth.
Specs:
- Material: 100% cowhide
- Pile: Zero
- Size: 5’ x 7’ (approximate)
Pros:
- Markings and natural tones add character, making each rug one-of-a-kind.
- Naturally resistant to any spills and stains
- Sustainably sourced and expertly tanned
Cons:
- Recommended rug pad for non slip and extra cushioning
- More expensive than faux hide option
Reviews:
- None indicated on website
Best Patterned: Mandovi Cowhide Herringbone Area Rug
This handmade Mandovi Silver Cowhide Herringbone Area Rug from Rugs USA gives a refined modern design that blends in with any color scheme. Underfoot, it feels soothing and smooth thanks to its mix of viscose and leather. The materials are also child and pet friendly. No matter your room proportion or layout, the wide array of sizes and shapes provide you with sure fit options.
Specs:
- Material: Viscose and cowhide
- Pile: Low
- Size: Various
Pros:
- Refined cosmopolitan design
- Pet and child friendly material
- Durable and easy to clean
- 30 day return
Cons:
- Reviews have indicated faster wear and tear when placed in high traffic areas.
- Its low pile may feel thin underfoot, especially on hard floors.
Reviews:
- “Highly recommended! A beautiful modern rug that will lay flat and is a perfect neutral color for any decor.” Chris
- “Contemporary expensive-looking design with soothing colors and a wonderful feel for bare feet.” Shelia E,
Best Patchwork: Pottery Barn Block Leather Rug
This beautiful Block Leather Rug from Pottery Barn is classic patchwork made contemporary. Handmade from real cowhide with individually cut blocks bound together, the resulting geometric pattern exudes a balanced yet striking palette of black, brown, and ivory neutrals. It comes in one size (4 x 6 foot) and two color variations, multi or gray. The higher pile provides a softer feel underfoot.
Specs:
- Material: 100% cowhide
- Pile: High
- Size: 4’ x 6’ (approximate)
Pros:
- Striking modern pattern perfect for defining living spaces
- Responsibly made and safe with only water-based adhesives used
- Softer underfoot
- Easy-care with light vacuuming
Cons:
- Pricier than synthetic options
- A rug pad recommended for non-slip purpose.
Reviews:
- None indicated on website
Best Tri-Color: NativeSkins Faux Cowhide Rug
The NativeSkins Faux Cowhide Rug is exceptional with its rich and true-to-color cow prints. Made from premium polyester, the rug not only offers a luxurious touch but is easy to care for and durable. Unlike real cowhide, the plus point is this rug is machine washable (gentle cycle) and quick drying! It also comes in larger sizes as compared to other brands, giving those seeking larger sizes or with bigger rooms a great alternative.
Specs:
- Material: Polyester
- Pile: Low
- Size: Various
Pros:
- Rich colors that stand out
- Large and versatile sizes
- Easy to care for
- Affordable option for the size
- Machine washable (rare!)
Cons:
- Reviews indicate that it moves around and feel thin underfoot
- Recommended rug pad for anti slip and extra cushioning.
Reviews:
- “This rug is easy to clean and so soft! I love everything about it and it cleans up beautifully (even with two dogs) and looks modern, elegant, and rustic at the same time.” Damian2015
- “Beautiful, with gorgeous very realistic coloring plush washing is a breeze.” Littlebullbates
- “Like the thinness of the rug as it will be used under desk area and will allow chair to roll easily. Colors are bright and ends of rug are sewn well as not to fray.” Kindle Customer
Best Zebra: Rugs USA Zebra Cowhide Area Rug
This Zebra Cowhide Area Rug from Rugs USA is sure to add character and comfort to any home space with its distinctive zebra pattern. Made from genuine cowhide and a medium pile, it makes a statement while pampering your feet with a much needed soothing touch. It comes in a metallic gold (yes gold) option which is highly popular so grab it while it is available!
Specs:
- Material: 100% cowhide
- Pile: Medium
- Size: 5’ x 7’ (approximate)
Pros
- Distinctive pattern gives texture and an opulent touch
- Child and pet friendly with its natural material and medium pile
- Easy to clean
- White and gold combination is rare
Cons:
- Some buyers indicate the white tones are more cream-colored than the pictures on the website
- Imperfections in the zebra skin, including a brown tint
Reviews:
- “Absolutely love it. Exactly what it is pictured as and feels luxurious.” Harb
- This rug is a MUST BUY!!! I purchased the one with the metallic gold coloring and it was worth the money. If you are contemplating buying this rug… Don’t think anymore. BUY IT!! I placed it in my study. I must admit… It looks AMAZING!!! Anonymous
Best for Small Spaces or Bathroom: Urban Outfitters Cow Print Tufted Shaggy Rug
If you’re looking to give your small space a playful chic touch, this pelt-shaped Cow Print Tufted Shaggy Rug from Urban Outfitters will make you fall in love. Made of a blend of cotton and polyester, it provides ample fluffiness for small areas and is suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms.
Specs:
- Material: Cotton and polyester
- Pile: Low
Pros:
- Cute playful look
- Suitable for wet areas
- Easily spot-cleaned
Cons:
- Rug pad recommended for anti slip and extra cushioning
Reviews:
- None indicated on website
Materials used in best cowhide rugs
When it comes to cowhide rugs, there are two main types: faux and real. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Faux cowhide rugs are typically made from synthetic materials like polyester or acrylic. They’re more affordable than real cowhide rugs and are easier to care for since they’re not susceptible to staining or shedding. However, they may not look as realistic as real cowhide rugs and may not be as durable. They can be used for damp areas like bathrooms since they’re resistant to water.
Real cowhide rugs are made from, well, real cowhide! They tend to be more expensive than faux cowhide rugs, but they’re also more durable and realistic-looking. However, they require more care than faux cowhide rugs since they can stain and shed.
Care of cowhide rugs
Both real and faux cowhide rugs require regular vacuuming and spot cleaning.
To clean a cowhide rug, start by vacuuming on the lowest setting or shaking it to remove dust and dirt. Next, spot clean any stains with a mild soap and water solution or a water based cleaner.
Be sure to test the soap or cleaner in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the material.
It’s also important to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent fading. Lastly, it is recommended to rotate real hides in high traffic areas every 3 months to prevent wear and tear.
Size of cowhide rugs
Cowhide rugs come in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to choose a size that best fits your space and needs. For example, if you have a large living room, you’ll want a bigger cowhide rug than if you have a smaller space like a bathroom or bedroom.
Most cowhide rugs come in these sizes: 2×3 feet, 3×5 feet, 5×8 feet, 6×7 feet, 8×10 feet.
Bear in mind that bigger sizes will cost more, especially for real cowhide rugs. Try using the retailers’ “View In Room” tool to ensure the rug’s match to the theme and proportions to other furniture in the room.
Patterns of best cowhide rugs
There are a variety of patterns to choose from when it comes to cowhide rugs. From classic designs to more modern prints, there’s sure to be a pattern for your theme.
Some of the most popular patterns include: zebra, spots, brindle, salt and pepper (black and white), piebald (white with spots), line back (dark brown or black),
When choosing a pattern, it’s important to consider the overall design of your space. For example, a zebra print rug would look best in a more adventurous space, while a salt and pepper rug would be better suited for a classic or minimalist room.
FAQ
Where do the best cowhide rugs come from?
Cowhide rugs can come from all over the world, but they’re most commonly sourced from Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Rugs from these counties are the creme de la creme of the industry with their expertise in breeding cows and tanning cow hides.
How can you tell the quality of a cowhide rug?
The quality of a real cowhide rug can be determined by 2 things: the bunch test and genuine smell. The bunch test is easy – bunch up the rug and let it unroll. A high quality rug will unfurl quickly without any wrinkles.
As for the smell, real cowhide should have a faint musky smell aka ‘the leather smell’. Furthermore, a good quality real cowhide will look healthy with a nice sheen to it.
Are cowhide rugs out of style 2022?
No, cowhide rugs are not out of style in 2022. They continue to be a popular choice for home décor due to their comfort, longevity, are easy to care for, hypoallergenic properties, and variety of patterns and sizes (panting…need we say more?).
What are the best uses for cowhide rugs?
Cowhide rugs can be used in a variety of ways, including as floor rugs, wall hangings, or even upholstery.
Wrap Up
So there you have it! Our best recommendations for cowhide rugs, complete with a buying guide to help you make the best choice for your home. Whether you’re in the market for a new rug for your home or just curious about what all the fuss is about, we hope this guide has been helpful.
And don’t forget, if you have any questions at all (or just want some advice on which one of these beauties to buy), our team is always happy to help. Happy shopping!