I am completely in love with this rug! Received it last week and put it down immediately. The edges and ends flattened out really quickly, and I havent noticed a smell, as some other reviews have noted. The rug is soft underfoot, the braiding is tight, and because theres a backing on it, it doesnt require an underpad. And so far it hasnt shed much at all. The varying tones of cream, beige and tan are lovely and it looks amazing with my living room furniture. I just hope it holds up. My previous rug, a jute basketweave, shredded in places within a year and a half.