Dear Donna,

I have recently been told by a carpet superstore that they no longer stock seagrass because it stains easily, is hard to lay and is highly flammable. Is that true or are they trying to fob me off with their fake lookalike products? If it's not true, where is a good place for me to buy it?

Thanks for your help,
Jane.

Our Homes And Property Expert replies:

Dear Jane,

The correct installation of natural floor coverings is essential to guarantee maximum performance through their long life. But with the right care and attention, you shouldn't have any problems with it. Flooring experts Crucial Trading recommend that their plant fibre floorcoverings require more specialist installation.

Using a barrier mat at the doorways will reduce the amount of dirt being walked into an area. Plant fibre, sisal, coir, seagrass, jute, and paper floorcoverings all have a natural latex backing which helps to prevent dust and dirt build-up beneath the floorcovering. A light cleaning with a non-beater bar suction cleaner will remove surface dirt before it becomes embedded in the floorcovering. In areas where the floor covering is likely to be contaminated with dirt, it should be allowed to dry and then brushed along the grain. After brushing it should then be vacuumed. Depending on the circumstances the natural floorcovering will need a periodic all-over clean using the Floor Care for Natural Fibres.

Most natural plant fibre floorcoverings have a degree of resistance to stains, for example seagrass is smooth fibre and surprisingly impermeable to moisture. In the event of a spillage you must blot up as much moisture with a kitchen towel (without colour dyes) immediately as this then minimises moisture penetration into the fibres. Once you have removed the moisture you then need to ascertain the type of spillage and the best method to remove it.

For peace of mind Crucial Trading offer a stain protector solution called Intec, which is designed especially for natural floorcoverings. Intec acts by coating every fibre with a polymer shield so that the floorcovering resists the absorption of stains and dirt, which in turn helps your floorcovering look good for longer. Intec is also completely safe and does not affect the colour or texture of the floorcoverings. It's suitable for all floor coverings and is available from all Crucial Trading shops.

Hope that helps you choose!
Donna.