Fiber Content

Your carpet can be many different types of fibers. The type of fiber you choose will have a major impact on the durability and appearance of your carpet. Most carpet is made of synthetic fibers that provide an attractive appearance while requiring minimum maintenance.

Here are some of the types of carpet fibers:

Wool

This natural fiber is beautiful and highly sought after for its warmth and luxurious feel, however it is the most expensive fiber and is not as stain resistant as synthetic fibers.

Nylon

This synthetic fiber is the most popular choice because it is available in a variety of vibrant colors and it is easy to maintain because it resists stains and is durable in the face frequent use.

Olefin (Polypropylene)

Another synthetic fiber, it is a cheaper option than nylon and it is good for outdoor use due to its moisture resistant properties. It resists mildew and maintains its color in sunlight, however it requires consistent vacuuming because dirt will not stay on top of the carpeting, but will lay at the backing. It also melts at low temperatures which can cause permanent marks by friction from moving pieces of furniture.

Polyester

This synthetic can be soft and luxurious as a plush carpet, but is not a good choice for high traffic areas because it has a low melting point that can show wear quickly and it tends to fade in sunlight and lose height. Polyester resists water based spills and is easy to clean. Consider a polyester/nylon blend to maximize the benefits of each.

Acrylic

This synthetic fiber can resist mildew, stains, fading, and static electricity while providing the look of wool. However, it is not the best choice to stand up against heavy traffic