What Is a Hide Carpet? Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

What Is a Hide Carpet? Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

If you’re browsing for a bold, natural statement piece to elevate your home, you’ve likely come across the term hide carpet. But what exactly is a hide carpet? Is it made from real animal hide? Is it ethical? Is it practical?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hide carpets—covering what they are, the difference between real and faux versions, design styles, cleaning tips, and how to choose the right one for your space.

1. What Exactly Is a Hide Carpet?

A hide carpet—also called a cowhide rug or leather area rug—is a floor covering made from the preserved hide of an animal, typically a cow. These rugs maintain the natural shape and texture of the hide, creating a rustic yet elegant look that fits in a variety of interiors.

Today, you’ll find two main types:

• Real hide carpet: Made from actual tanned animal hides (usually cow).

• Faux hide carpet: Crafted from synthetic materials like polyester or PU leather, mimicking the look and feel of real cowhide.

Both types have distinct pros and cons, which we’ll cover below.

2. Real vs. Faux Hide Carpet: What’s the Difference?

Real Hide Carpet

• Pros:

  • 100% natural material

  • Unique, one-of-a-kind patterns

  • Long-lasting with proper care

• Cons:

  • More expensive

  • Not vegan-friendly

  • May require special care to avoid drying or cracking

Faux Hide Carpet

• Pros:

  • Affordable and cruelty-free

  • Easy to clean

  • Lightweight and easy to move or fold

• Cons:

  • Less variation in texture

  • May not feel as luxurious as real leather

3. Why Choose a Hide Carpet for Your Home?

Hide carpets are both decorative and functional. Their organic shapes and textures break the monotony of straight-edged furniture and add warmth to a space.

Common benefits include:

• Timeless appeal: Suitable for rustic, modern, farmhouse, bohemian, or eclectic decor.

• Easy layering: Great for layering over large area rugs.

• Natural insulation: Real and faux versions both offer some degree of softness and warmth underfoot.

• Conversation starter: Each piece—especially real hide—is visually unique.

4. Where to Use a Hide Carpet

Whether you go for real or faux, hide carpets can work in nearly any room:

• Living Room: Use it under a coffee table or sofa to define the space.

• Bedroom: Place one beside or under the bed for added warmth.

• Entryway: Welcome guests with a bold natural accent.

• Home Office: Use under a reading chair to soften the look.

5. Styling Tips for Hide Carpets

To get the most out of your hide rug:

• Let it breathe: Don’t hide your hide carpet under heavy furniture—allow its organic shape to be visible.

• Layer it: Pair with flatweave rugs for added texture.

• Contrast it: Use light hides on dark flooring and vice versa.

• Balance boldness: Match with neutral tones for a more cohesive look.

6. How to Care for Your Hide Carpet

Even though they look high-end, hide carpets are relatively low maintenance if you follow a few simple rules:

• Vacuum lightly (no beater bar)

• Shake out dust and debris

• Spot-clean spills with mild soap and water

• Avoid soaking or machine washing

• Keep away from direct heat or sunlight to prevent fading or curling

For more on floor covering maintenance, see the World Floor Covering Association’s care guide.

Ethical Considerations: Is a Hide Carpet Right for You?

If animal welfare is important to you, faux hide carpets offer a guilt-free alternative without sacrificing style. Many faux options today are made with recycled materials and designed to replicate real hide patterns.

At CowKobe, we specialize in faux cowhide rugs that give you the best of both worlds: the natural look you love, with sustainability and compassion built in.

See our blog on the sustainability of faux cowhide rugs to learn more. 

 What to Remember Before You Buy

Before purchasing a hide carpet, ask yourself:

• Do you prefer real or faux materials?

• What room will the rug go in?

• What colors or textures match your existing decor?

• Are you prepared to care for it long-term?

A hide carpet is more than a rug—it’s a bold design choice that combines nature, texture, and elegance. Whether you go real or faux, it’s a timeless investment in your space’s atmosphere.