What Type of Carpet Material is Best?

If you are considering replacing the carpet in your home, consider a few things before making your final decision. There are several carpet materials you can choose from.

Before deciding which material to purchase, closely examine where the carpet will be installed. Each type of material has benefits and drawbacks that make it better for certain environments. Know the characteristics of your environment and find the carpet material that best suits those parameters.

Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers

Two types of fibers comprise all types of carpet material; natural and synthetic. Natural fibers are found in nature. Cotton and wool are natural fibers often found in carpets. Wool is much more durable than cotton. Natural fibers are much more expensive than man-made fibers. Natural fibers may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to wool or cotton.

Synthetic fibers are machine-made and can be mass-produced, making them much more affordable and practical than natural fibers. Carpets made from synthetic fibers are much easier to clean and maintain than those made with natural fibers. They are also more resistant to stains. Synthetic fibers are stronger and more durable, which increases a carpet’s longevity.

Different Types of Materials

There are different types of materials used in carpeting. Each is unique and has specific characteristics that make it a good choice for carpeting. Some fibers are more durable than others, while some are more resistant to dirt, stains, and moisture.

The environment where you install the carpet will determine your chosen material. Working with the professionals at Valley Carpet Cleaning can help you make the right decision.

Nylon

Nylon is the most popular carpet material available. It is a strong, synthetic fiber that is extremely durable. It has a soft texture resistant to mold, stains, and insects. It is less likely to be matted down when placed in high-traffic areas.

Nylon is also known to be colorfast. It is less likely to lose its color over the years or if it is in direct sunlight. Nylon is in the middle range in price and has a longevity of anywhere from 12 to 15 years or longer if properly maintained. Professionally cleaning nylon carpets at least once a year is recommended and will keep the fibers looking new.

Polyester

Although polyester fibers are durable and easy to keep clean, they are more likely to lose their height and resiliency when installed in high-traffic areas. Polyester fibers are synthetic, which makes them less likely to stain.

If installed in areas where it will be in direct sunlight for long periods, the fibers may start to fade. It is incredibly soft and easy on the wallet. Because it is synthetic, it is a safe option for people with allergies or sensitivities to certain types of fibers.

Wool

Wool is a natural fiber that is harvested from sheep. It is more expensive than other types of carpet fibers. It’s soft and comfortable to the touch. In most cases, it is one of the stronger, longer-lasting fibers and is stain resistant. It can be dyed in a variety of colors and will hide soil more efficiently than synthetic materials.

Wool is quite sturdy and will hold its fiber height longer than other types of fibers. It can begin to fade if placed in direct sunlight for extended periods. Insects can be drawn to wool, and it is easily damaged. Since wool is a natural fiber, it can also produce allergens.

Polypropylene (Olefin)

Polypropylene is a synthetic fiber that looks and feels like wool. Also known as Olefin, polypropylene is incredibly strong and resistant to moisture, mildew, and abrasive wear and tear. It is also less likely to fade when exposed to direct sunlight.

Polypropylene is easy to clean and less likely to hold dirt. It is stain resistant but will capture oils that can attract dirt and debris. Olefin is less durable than nylon but will do fine in low-traffic areas. It’s much less expensive than other carpet materials but may wear out faster.

Triexta

Triexta is a synthetic material that falls somewhere between polyester and nylon. It is eco-friendly, incredibly strong, and durable. It is stain resistant and easy to keep clean and maintain. With yearly professional cleaning, Triexta is ideal for active families with children and pets.

Triexta is hypo-allergenic and will not hold allergens, dirt, or debris like other carpet materials. The SmartStrand technology helps the fibers maintain shape and hold the carpet’s volume. The stain protection is in the fibers, making it more uniform throughout the entire carpet.

Durability

Nylon and wool are your best choices for durability and longevity without signs of wear and tear. They will wear well in higher traffic areas and maintain their volume and pleasing appearance.

Hypo-allergenic

Avoid wool and wool blends if you have someone sensitive to natural fibers. Nylon, Olefin, and polyester should be your top choices.

Easiest to Clean

Of all the carpet materials available, nylon is the easiest to clean. A mild detergent and water can be used in an emergency if you have a stain.

Easiest to Maintain

Nylon and polyester are the easiest to maintain in the long run. Remember that having your carpets cleaned professionally at least once a year by the professionals at Valley Carpet Cleaning and regular vacuuming (at least once or twice a week) will extend the life of your carpet for several more years.

Longevity

Nylon and wool are close in comparison when you are looking for the longest-lasting carpets. They are more expensive to buy, but when you divide the cost over their entire lifespan, they are more affordable than other carpet materials.

Before buying your next carpet, talk to the professionals who clean and maintain it. At Valley Carpet Cleaning, our years of experience maintaining different types of carpeting will help you get the most out of your money. Call today and let our professionals help you get the most out of your money!

Categorised in: Carpet Cleaning

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