Types of Carpet Fibers

Synthetic and natural fibers are both used in making carpets. How each room is used or lived in is the best way to determine what type of fiber you should choose. There are five basic types of carpet fiber:

Wool

As one of the leading fiber options, wool is the only natural fiber used to make carpets. Preferred for its natural beauty, wool does have natural soil resistance qualities, but is not stain resistant as synthetic fibers. It is durable and when well cared for can last for a long time. It is also considered an eco-friendly floor covering.

Nylon

Of all the fibers, nylon is the most stain resistant carpet fiber available, when treated. Homes with pets and children can benefit from this carpet fiber as well as those who entertain frequently. Nylon is commonly used in high traffic areas like hallways and stairs.

Polyester

If you have a more normal level of traffic in your home, polyester provides a luxurious look and feel. It also offers a wide selection of colors and styles to choose from.

Olefin

While not as durable nylon or polyester, olefin is resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew. It’s not as comfortable to walk on making it best suited for basements and outdoors.

Acrylic

Though not as widely available, acrylic is less expensive than wool and could be used as a synthetic alternative.

Textures of Carpeting

Carpet texture is defined as how the fibers of the carpet are attached to the backing of the carpet. Generally speaking, there are three different types of carpet texture: Loop, cut-pile and cut-loop

Loop

As the name suggests, the fibers in loop pile are bent into little loops that are uncut on the carpet surface. Durable and stain-resistant, this texture usually has a low profile and limited cushioning and is considered ideal for heavy traffic areas. Within the loop pile family are:

Cut Pile

Cut pile carpet consists of yarns that are cut at the ends giving them a soft feel that makes them perfect for bedrooms, living rooms and family rooms. The amount of twist in the yarns is the main variance among the styles giving them different levels of durability. There are five basic styles of cut pile carpet:

Cut-loop

Cut and loop is yet another type of carpet that has a combination of high cut tufts and lower loops in a variety of patterns. Cut-loop carpets offer good performance and are good for hiding dirt and stains but are slightly less durable than loop carpets.

Tufted Carpet Construction

A tufting machine works like an over sized sewing machine with hundreds of needles that insert loops of fiber into the carpet’s backing to form the face pile of the carpet. The majority of residential carpet is manufactured as tufted carpet. The quality and durability of the carpet is most influenced by the twist of the fibers and the density of the tufts. Below is a list of components that go into the construction of a carpet:

Twist

Twist refers to how tightly the fiber has been twisted. The tighter the twist, the better the carpet will resist crushing and matting. Most cut pile carpet styles have between 3-6 twists per inch.

Density

The amount, and how tightly packed together the fibers are within the carpet is called density. The closer together the fibers are placed, the denser the carpet will be, and the better it will wear and perform.

Stain Resistant Carpet

The primary factor in determining stain resistance is carpet fiber type: nylon, polyester, olefin or wool. Most manufacturers also apply post-production stain protection treatments to enhance each fiber’s natural stain resistant properties.

Dye Methods

There are two popular methods for dying carpet:

Solution Dyed – In order to give the carpet stronger stain and fade resistance, the fiber is dyed before the fiber are woven.

Continuous Dyed – When the post-tufting process is completed, this process is what will achieve solid colors.

Color Selection

When choosing a color scheme for your carpet, consider the walls, window treatments and other furnishings. Bring fabric and color with you when talking to the flooring installation experts.

Once you have your new carpet installed, remember that keeping it looking beautiful will require regular professional cleaning. When you are ready for that first cleaning, give Neato Carpet Care in Phoenix a call!