I love the rug, but am disappointed that it has a strong, chemical smell. I asked Wayfair before purchasing if it was treated with anything and they were great at contacting the manufacturer who assured me that it wasn't. They also said they was no backing - which there is, even in their own photo! When it arrived it really smelled bad. Been airing it out for a week, still bad. I like the smell of jute, and need a natural product without chemicals for health reasons. This smells like chemicals, likely the backing. I emailed Wayfair with the address they gave me if there were any problems and never heard back. Too bad, because the rug is otherwise great.