Carpets are coming back in fashion as a way to pad up one’s floors without losing style or aesthetic. But many people are hesitant because of the environmental impact often associated with them. It’s no secret that a lot of work, energy and raw material go into carpet production. And in this age of environmental consciousness, it’s not exactly the greenest choice. Thankfully, there’s an efficient alternative: area rugs. By shopping for rugs instead, you reduce your carbon footprint, warm up your home, and keep it in style for years to come.

But what really makes rugs a greener choice? For one thing, they come in a wider range of materials, so you have more control over how natural or organic your rug is. Second, they’re also cheaper—while there are some luxury carpets out there, you can usually find a decent piece for under $100. And since they’re smaller, they’re also a lot easier to maintain—no need to take them to the dry cleaners or spend days waiting for them to dry. To help you find the greenest rugs, here’s a quick buying guide worth looking into.

Know your natural materials.

The word “natural” can mean a lot. In many states, a rug only has to have a pinch of natural fiber for it to earn the label. That’s why you should check the tags carefully before buying. Choose only materials that come from all-natural sources, such as wool. Wool can last for years without any chemical treatments. If you’re on a budget, look into braided wool rugs—they’re made from lighter wool and won’t cost you as much as a regular rug would.

Another good reason to choose wool is that the production process is very eco-friendly. Wool production is very stable worldwide, since sheep have to be sheared regularly to keep them comfortable in hotter seasons. The process doesn’t hurt the animal, and the fur grows back fast. And since sheepskin has natural protective abilities, wool rugs can remain soft and durable over the years, even with very little maintenance.

Consider plant-based fibers.

Some people don’t approve of animal skins because they take a fair amount of energy to produce. If you want to further reduce your environmental footprint, you can choose plant-based materials such as bamboo and seagrass. Bamboo is especially popular because it grows abundantly and can be treated without using synthetics. You can even get the same softness and quality as wool, as with Anji Mountain bamboo shag rugs. This company gets its bamboo from the well-preserved Anji Mountains of China, where the cold climate toughens up the fibers and the shoots grow up to a hundred feet a year.

Bamboo isn’t the only plant fiber you can use, of course. Designers are also discovering a number of indigenous plants that fit very well into rug design. Jute and mountain grass, for example, create a very smooth, subtle material that’s surprisingly durable for their price. Look around and compare different fibers to see which ones best suit your needs.

Keep an eye on quality.

Most people associate eco-friendly with low quality, but that’s not always the case. Sure, going natural may mean giving up treatments that would make rugs last longer. But it really depends on the materials you use in the first place. There are lots of natural materials that last just as long as their synthetic counterparts. Sisal area rugs are a good example. Made from a type of cactus known as agave, sisal fiber is used for industrial ropes, dart boards, and other heavy-duty items that can withstand regular abuse.

Knowing your sources can also help you ensure lasting quality from your area rug. There are literally thousands of rug manufacturers out there, but not all of them will give you good value for your money. Ask around for recommendations on good shops, brands, and manufacturers, and make sure to compare your sources before making your purchase.

Buy locally.

Finally, as much as possible, try to limit your purchase to local manufacturers and dealers. Besides supporting local industry, it also reduces your rug’s total carbon footprint because it doesn’t have to travel far to reach your home. Most states have at least a few rug manufacturers offering online and offline sales. Consult a forum or blog on area rug decorating to see what people in your area recommend.

Another advantage to buying locally is that you can always come back if you need after-sales assistance. For example, if you want the rug replaced under warranty, it’s easier to just drive to the store than have to call or write an email, where you may have to wait days for a reply. You can also get personalized tips on cleaning, maintenance and design. And if you decide to change or add more rugs in the future, you’ll know where to go to get the best deals.