With Old Man Winter within striking distance in many parts of the country, a few area rugs scattered around the house can certainly help to warm up cold floors.  I particularly like wool area rugs for two reasons:  they will last for years, and they’re made from a renewable resource. My husband’s grandmother has had the same wool are rugs for 40 years, and they still look great! Wool rugs are more expensive than some other materials, but since you should only have to buy them once, maybe that’s a savings in the long run.

The area rug above is a Fair Isle hooked wool rug from Garnet Hill.  It is available in 3 sizes:  3 feet, 5 feet, and 7 feet. They range in price from $98-$258.

If you’re worried about area rugs sliding around on hardwood or ceramic tile floors, you should check into purchasing organic rug pads. Rug pads will also protect your area rugs from signs of heavy wear, and help them last longer. The rug pad above is made from plant-based materials rather than petroleum-based plastics.

It’s not just for socks anymore! Wool is often overlooked as a natural resource, but it’s making a comeback as a green living option. If you’re building a green home, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is how to insulate it.  Here are some of the benefits of wool insulation:

1) Non-Toxic:  Wool insulation is non toxic, in fact, it’s sometimes used to to clean up toxic buildings because it absorbs toxins. And, since wool fibers are naturally larger than those used in synthetic insulation, they don’t pose a threat to those with asthma or other respiratory problems.

2) Efficient:  Wool insulation has a higher R-Value than fiberglass insulation, and can absorb more than it’s weight in water without becoming wet to the touch.

3) Reusable/Biodegradable:  Wool insulation can be reused, and if discarded, it’s biodegradable.

You can find more information at Good Shepherd Wool, a manufacturer of wool insulation.

Don’t forget about the other ways you can use wool to create a green home, including wool blankets, wool area rugs, and wool upholstered furniture.