Say Goodbye To Traditional Carpet: This Versatile Alternative Is On Trend For 2026

Throughout the years, traditional carpet — commonly made of wool or a combination of wool and synthetic materials — has been a staple in home design. Adding a touch of warmth and comfort to any room, this style of carpet has plenty of reasons to love it. However, it's not without its disadvantages. For example, wool carpets are extremely absorbent, leaving them prone to mildew in areas with high moisture. They are also prone to stains and are sensitive to sunlight. Wool carpets and rugs have another major drawback — high price points. Luckily, there's a trending, natural carpet material that's primed for a takeover, and it combines the comfort of carpet with the clean appeal of wood floors. That material is sisal.

With sisal's recent rise in popularity, you've probably seen sisal carpet used in various social media posts. Influencers and designers alike are turning to the natural material for its various benefits, which include durability, resistance to static electricity and pet hair, comfortable feel, and low maintenance needs. Moreover, sisal offers a beautiful, natural look that's perfect for coastal, boho, and historical homes. 

In a recent post on the Martha Stewart website, Tennille Burnup, founder of Tennille Joy Interiors, raves about the trending material: "It's practical as well as stylish—anti-static, low-dust, and sustainable. What's not to love?"

When trying to decide if a trend is right for you or just right for now, you need to consider the pros and cons of the trend. With sisal carpet, there are several pros. For example, if you're hoping to capitalize on patterned carpet trends, sisal has a variety of options, from herringbone to unique geometric shapes. Additionally, sisal is made from a sustainable, plant-based material, so you don't have to worry about having a negative impact on the environment. When it comes to styling, sisal's natural, textured look fits in well with just about anything and is perfect for layering other rugs on top. To maintain this carpet, all you need to do is the occasional vacuum. Dirt and pet hair are unlikely to stick to or stain this carpet either.

Sisal rugs are loved for their natural, earthy tones. However, if you're worried that beige floors are a once-massive flooring trend that will now cause your home to look outdated, you can also find dyed sisal carpet. Another alternative that works best on stair runners is to add a colorful trim to help the sisal's natural tones really pop. 

As for the cons, sisal cannot be cleaned with anything wet. This means if you spill a glass of red wine, for example, it will be next to impossible to clean. To get around that issue, opt for faux sisal carpet, which offers the same aesthetic benefits but can be cleaned with water and bleach without worry.