8. How to Source Non-Toxic Rugs: What Every Interior Designer Needs to Know — Design with Impact

Episode 8. How to Source Non-Toxic Rugs: What Every Interior Designer Needs to Know

Description:

In this episode of Design with Impact, Alex sits down with Sandy Wong, founder of Rugs by Roo and the Healthy Home Summit, to talk about one of the most overlooked pieces of a healthy home: the rug.

Sandy shares how her journey as a mom led her to discover how difficult it is to find rugs that are truly safe, natural, and free from harmful chemicals. Together, they unpack what’s really inside most conventional rugs, why 80% of rugs on the market are synthetic, and how materials like polypropylene and polyester are often treated with chemicals like PFAS to make them stain resistant.

From red flags to certifications to pricing and durability, this episode is packed with practical advice for interior designers who want to confidently specify rugs that support indoor air quality, long-term health, and sustainability—without sacrificing style.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Sandy’s story behind founding Rugs by Roo and why she started sourcing healthier rugs
Why the Healthy Home Summit was created and why consumer education matters
The surprising statistic: 80% of rugs on the market are synthetic
Why synthetic rugs often contain chemical treatments like PFAS
The most important things to look for when sourcing a healthier rug
Key rug components designers should evaluate: fibers, dyes, backing, and adhesives
Red flags like “stain resistant,” “water repellent,” “UV protected,” and “antibacterial” claims
The simple “smell test” designers can use when shopping for rugs
What to look for on the back of the rug (and why stitched backing matters)
The importance of ethical sourcing and avoiding child labor in the rug industry
Why healthy rugs cost more upfront—but often cost the same over time

Connect with Sandy Wong:

Free Workshop for Interior Designers: Healthy Rugs, Decoded (June 12th – recorded if you can’t attend live)

Website: www.rugsbyroo.com & www.healthyhomesummit.com

Instagram: @rugsbyroo & @healthyhomesummit

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