One of my biggest headaches with rugs 'used to be' to find one that "ticks all the boxes"...
First and above all, a rug has to be stunning { and/or different/original, depending on my clients: some would only care about the beauty of the design, others about how cool and innovative it is...}
My customers can omit to think about practicality too! { Which is also why you hire me so I can remind you about it hi hi } Now think maintenance: wine spills, pets and kids, allergies or even "worse" rugs mites (ie in some wool rugs, it happens, despite the "chemical treatment of the wool...) Yes "other" rugs will attract a high amount of dust and retain pollen, absorb liquid and be a lovely nest for tiny visitors.
I am sure that after reading all of the above, you must be thinking, is there a way to avoid all those troubles? It is not called a miracle, no :-) I am talking about cowhide rugs and full cowhides! The durability and comfort of the cowskin rugs is equaled by the beauty they bring to a room or your property overall!
I thought it would be interesting to list a serie of Q&A to tell you more about the beautiful products (which we have in stock here by the way :D !)
How ethical it is to use cowhides?
Our products are made out of skins that come from meat processing plants. Considering that you’re using something that would otherwise be thrown away, you’re actually helping the environment. All our accessories have been made by the finest of craftsmen in our supplier’s factory, which are certified AND that I am inspecting twice a year: leathers that we use are of the highest quality and sourced from Europe’s most prestigious tanneries based in Switzerland, France, Italy and UK. Note we never (and will NEVER) use China, Brazil, India, Pakistan or any other countries employing children or cheap labour, nor do we use any country using unethical or dangerous working environments or trading standards.
I personally pledge to only use European leathers, skins and any other materials, ethically sourced and beautifully produced.
So when you buy from Fifi de Lyon, you become a 'consum-actor': yes, your purchase makes a difference.
If you have never used a cowhide product before...
A full cowhide or a hide rug will be an impressive addition to your property. We will have all the time in the world to discuss all the details when I come to visit you of course. For now, remember that the durability and comfort of the cowskin rugs is equaled by the beauty they bring to your entrance, to your room, to your property! Forget about only being able to choose between a "black and white cowhide" and a "brown and white" cowhide... It is amazing how, nowadays, we have rugs available in so many many many colors and shapes that can enhance any area they are used in. The natural shapes combined with the natural black and white colors can significantly enhance a room with country themed interiors. The black and white colours can also be used in modern rooms where furnishings are either white or black. It is also very trendy to do natural cowhides with a design that replicates the hides of other animals. For example, the cheetah or zebra print cowhide rug is a classic style which can be used in a any room of the house. It all depends on the look you want for your interiors! And the latest technology of laser-burning allows me to create some incredible patterns on the hides (as you can see further down!)
Finally remember that cowhides are extremely versatile: we use them for upholstery, turn them into superb cushions, hang them as they are on the wall or wrap them around a canvas to be used as a piece of art. Of course one of the most popular uses is as a cowhide rug!
Durability of a cowhide product
Cowhide is a resistant material, 100 times yes! As a parent, I am very pleased to have a cowhide rug and a few hide cushions at home. I am "not scared" of the (daily!!!?) spills and harsh treatments my boy reserves to them!... Cowhide doesn’t soak in and hold stains the way that normal rugs do, so it can take a massive beating without losing any of its durability. Rest assured that it is an ideal rug to use in high traffic areas: the natural hide is extremely durable. The skin will not shed or wear thin from extended use.
I invite you to read more about the care and maintenance of cowhide products in the "private zone".
NB: I have a big Maine Coon cat and a Moggy too and the girls looooove being on the rug! Cowhides are perfect for kids AND pets :-)
Ideal on hard floor surfaces
Yes, yes, please yes use it on hard floor surfaces: the cowskin is great for rooms which have hard floor surfaces! It creates a barrier between the surface of the floor and bare feet. This barrier creates warmth and comfort for the floor: it benefits the utility usage of the home.
Cowhide products are hypoallergenic
Rugs made of natural cow skin are 100% hypoallergenic.
They don’t trap pollen and dust the way any average rug would. They will not irritate the skin or lungs of people who suffer from allergies. As natural animal skins the rugs are not constructed from synthetic fibers which can become airborne and irritate people who have allergies to pollen, dust and other small particles.
Easy maintenance
The cowhide products are easy to maintain: with routine vacuuming or take it outside and give it a few good shakes, it’ll be dust-free.
For me, there’s absolutely no question that a cowhide product is a sound decision to create glamorous interiors. Alternatively, it can be a remarkable solution for a family looking for an hypoallergenic product to create a cosy and safe place!
If you would like to share with me your experience with cowhide products, feel free to write more below!
Have a good week,
U x
