The Ultimate Cowhiderug Buying Guide 2026

Cowhide Rugs Buying Guide 2026

A good cowhide rug can last 10–20 years, is easy to maintain, and works well in most Australian homes — but only if you choose the right one.
This guide covers size, colour, quality, and what to avoid so you get it right the first time.

Why This Guide Matters

We’ve spoken with customers for many years, and the same questions always come up.
A cowhide rug is something you live with every day — so it has to be right.

This guide answers the key questions so you can choose with confidence.

What Size Cowhide Rug Is Right?

Size is the most important decision — and the most common mistake.

Some people find it hard to visualise size. A simple trick is to measure the rug and mark it out on the floor using newspaper or paper. This shows you exactly how it will sit in the room.

You may tuck edges under a lounge or coffee table, or in larger spaces, overlap two hides.

  • A rug that is too small looks cheap

  • Too large gets in the way

  • Ideally, leave some floor visible around the edges — like a frame around a painting

? Not sure on sizing? See our Cowhide Rug Size Guide

What Colour Should You Choose?

Colour should work with your existing space — floor, walls, and furniture all matter.

  • Dark rugs can make a room feel smaller

  • Lighter rugs open up a space

  • Neutral tones create a softer, blended look

  • Black & white or tri-colour hides create contrast and impact

Take your time — every hide is different.

How Price Affects Quality

In cowhide rugs, price usually reflects quality.

Lower-priced hides are often thinner and may not last as long.

  • Craft-grade cowhides → lighter, more affordable

  • Brazilian hides → thicker, softer, longer lasting (often 10+ years)

The biggest mistake is buying purely on price.

We generally recommend:

  • Premium hides → living and high-use areas

  • Mid-range hides → bedrooms or lighter-use spaces

How to Choose a Good Supplier

Buying online can be difficult — you’re relying on a supplier you may never meet.

Experience matters.

We have been in furniture retail in Sydney for over 40 years and supplying cowhide rugs online across Australia for over 15 years.

Time in business and genuine customer reviews are strong indicators of reliability.

Cowhides vary naturally, and while we aim to match expectations closely, we always work to resolve any issues quickly if they arise.

Are Cowhide Rugs Ethical?

Cowhide rugs are a by-product of the meat industry.
The cattle are not raised for hides alone — the hides would otherwise go to waste.

They are widely used in shoes, upholstery, and rugs.

If you prefer not to use animal products, they may not be suitable — but cowhide has been used for centuries and remains a durable, natural material.

How Cowhide Rugs Are Made

The tanning process is complex. Hides are cleaned and treated in large rotating drums so tanning agents are fully absorbed.

This process makes the hide both durable and soft.

What to look for:

  • Soft and flexible feel

  • Natural leather smell (not chemical)

If a hide feels stiff like cardboard, avoid it.

Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cowhide Rug

  • Buying the wrong size

  • Choosing price over quality

  • Not considering your room’s colour scheme

  • Buying from unknown or unproven suppliers

These mistakes are common — and avoidable.

Final Buying Advice

Take your time, measure properly, and choose quality over price.

A well-chosen cowhide rug will last for years and become part of your home.

Ready to Choose a Cowhide Rug?

We curate our cowhide rugs based on quality, finish, and size — not volume.

? Browse our Cowhide Rugs Collection to find the right piece for your space

Related Guides

  • Cowhide Rug Size Guide

  • How to Clean a Cowhide Rug

  • Are Cowhide Rugs Worth It?

Browse our  Cowhide Rugs Collection

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