I like to describe Flokati area rugs as “feet candy”. Your toes will be in heaven when you sink them into the luxuriously soft and deep pile on a Flokati rug. Traditionally, the finest Flokati area rugs are made by rug makers in Greece and contain 100% New Zealand natural sheep wool, from the fiber to the backing. Flokati wool rugs are distinctly known for their long, very plush piles that are created using a very unique method.

The pile on an authentic Flokati rug starts with wool fibers that are hand–woven into long loops that are then cut by hand, creating a cut–looped area rug with a very long pile when compared to most other area rugs. Once the Flokati rug has been woven it is placed into deep vats under mountain waterfalls. The waterfalls pound into the vats for hours, swirling water around and puffing the wool rug fibers, making them extremely plush.

In addition to pleasing your toes, wool fibers are known for retaining their shape well once being crushed and are also anti–static and flame resistant. Flokati area rugs come in different weights, generally ranging from 1000g–4000g per square meter, with higher weights resulting in thicker, plusher rugs. For most settings that will receive any level of traffic, Flokati rugs that are 2000g or higher are recommend. Authentic Flokati area rugs that weigh 4000g per square meter can cost well over $1500.

When it comes to caring for Flokatis, you should vacuum with suction only as a beater bar can catch its long pile. From time to time, the long pile can be brushed with a stiff bristle hair brush to comb out your rug. Some Flokati area rugs can be machine washed, in which case, only cold water and a mild detergent should be used then the rug should air dry. Other Flokatis will recommend a professional cleaning. Also check with and follow the manufacturer’s care recommendations.

To learn more about Flokati area rugs and other popular rugs, visit FindAnyFloor’s Area Rug Glossary.