I was kind of nervous buying a jute rug after the things I've read (scratchy, stinky, rough, etc.) But this rug is awesome. Didn't have any smell and it uncurled quickly. It's surprisingly soft too! Not cotton soft, but it almost feels like wool. The color and design are beautiful and subtle - my husband and I love it! It is a bit thicker than I was anticipating, but it's not a huge deal. It's just really thick on the two shorter sides where they finish it off by folding it under and binding it. I would absolutely recommended this rug!