Poly Silk
Poly silk is a manmade polyester or nylon fiber with a soft texture and, depending on the color, a silk-like sheen. This shimmering quality adds a radiant dimension to woven poly silk rugs. Poly silk is also called poly silk or faux silk. It is not the same as “art silk,” or artificial silk, which is a fiber obtained by chemically treating wood pulp (or cellulose). Since poly silk is a synthetic fiber, it does not absorb moisture and is mold and mildew-resistant, making it an optimal material for outdoor rugs.
If you want to learn which rug material is right for your lifestyle, how to select the right size rug for your space, or how to buy a rug online, head over to our blog post Rug Buying Guide - Everything You Need to Know for a deep dive.
Most, but not all, poly silk rugs can go outside—check the weave’s Specification tab for more information. Rugs that are blends of poly silk and another material like wool, or rugs that don’t have an acceptable outdoor backing, are for indoor use only.
Our wool-like Muir Beach is an indoor-only weave, but Akoya rates for both indoor and outdoor applications. Since poly silk is UV-stabilized and colorfast, a poly silk rug resists fading and maintains its saturated colors. For best results over time, we recommend a covered area for outdoor poly silk rugs. Store your rug indoors when not in use for extended periods or during inclement weather.
Poly silk is a durable synthetic fiber that makes soft and easy-to-clean rugs and carpets. Poly silk’s resumé includes UV-stabilized fibers that resist fading, waterproof fibers that inhibit mold and mildew growth, richly dyed colors, and the ability to retain softness and vibrancy over time. The lifespan of any rug depends on the care it receives, so follow the recommended care guidelines that come with your rug.
Proper maintenance protects your investment for years to come. Thankfully, poly silk rugs are stain-resistant and easy to maintain.
Walk-off entry mats and regular vacuuming (without a beater bar) act as the first lines of defense against dust and dirt penetrating poly silk weave fibers.
If the rug is outdoors, vacuum or shake it out regularly.
If a spill or accident occurs, immediately blot up the excess moisture with a clean cloth or scoop up any solids. Treat any residual stains with either just water or a mild soap. Use gentle motions when dabbing your rug—excess pressure may cause the fibers to fuzz.
All our weaves come with detailed care guidelines that are accessible on the weave’s web page under the Care tab.
The soothing colors and vibrant patterns found in our poly silk rug collection provide inspiring options for many different decors. Gold Coast’s large-scale grid pattern adds a modern visual to transitional-style living rooms or homes rich in coastal comfort. Indio has a timeless chevron pattern in multi-tones for that perfect finish to a screened-in porch or sunroom. All of our poly silk weaves are extra wide and therefore ideal for creating an extra-large custom rug.