Natural fibers used with carpet are produced either by insects, animals, or even plants.  Protein fibers refer to materials by from animals or insects.  Those that are made by plants are known as vegetable fibers.  The are great but you need to be aware that they absorb liquids and therefore take longer to dry out – which can lead to mildew, shrinkage, and even dry rot.  These are important points when installing floors.

Wool

Wool fiber is produced from the fleece of lambs or sheep.  Wool of carpet is imported from countries such as England, Australia, and New Zealand.  The most expensive carpeting is made from wool however it’s normally suggested you buy a wool mix for extra durability.

Cotton

Cotton is a vegetable seed fiber that is produced from the cotton plant.  Basically the cotton is turned into yarn and woven to create the carpeting.

The biggest disadvantages to cotton is the fact that is the most absorbent of all fibers and requires extended drying times after being wet cleaned.  It is also easily damaged by acids, stains easily,  mats down, soils quickly, and is subject to mildew, dry rot, and shrinkage.

Jute

The jute plant is grown in Pakistan, India and also in South America.  Jute is an inexpensive material that also serves other uses than just carpet.  Again, as with the other natural materials there are disadvantages when it comes to moisture.

Sisal

Sisal carpeting is made from leaves that come from the agave plant.  Sisal is very strong and primarily used for making rugs, sacking, rope, and even carpet.

It might be that carpeting is perhaps not the best choice for flooring for your personal needs, so you could think about installing natural cork flooring or bamboo flooring instead.