What Kind of Fibers are in My Carpet?

Your choice of carpeting material goes a long way towards determining its durability, feel, ease of maintenance, cost and look. For natural fibers, wall-to-wall carpets use wool and area rugs use wool, cotton, silk, flax, or hemp — just about any fiber can be found in hand-made rugs and some even mix fibers. Just as there are many different types of natural fibers in rugs, there are also many different synthetic fibers used to make carpeting. Since rugs can be brought into our shop for specific testing and care, this article will focus on the types of fibers that Preferred Carpet Care commonly sees during our Redding carpet cleaning and repair visits.

Nylon Carpet

Nylon is by far the most common carpet fiber. It is stronger than other fibers, and thus very durable. Nylon is also easy to clean, mildew resistant and non-allergenic. It does tend to pill (like your favorite sweater) and is great for rubbing your stocking feet and shocking your neighbor! Of course, that static discharge may not be what you’re after.

Olefin Carpet

Olefin is made of polypropylene and is the most durable fiber. It has the feel of wool, is moisture resistant and very colorfast, but sunlight will eventually cause its colors to fade. Originally designed for outdoor carpeting, it is suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.

Polyester Carpet

Polyester shares the same benefits of nylon, but also its deficiencies. Pilling and shedding eventually accompany this fabric, but a skilled carpet technician can handle these problems. Available in a variety of colors and styles, it is less durable than either of the previous fibers.

Triexta Carpet

Triexta is generally less expensive than nylon, but offers similar durability and stain resistance. It’s a newer form of fiber and includes varieties that are partly constructed with natural products, like corn glucose, instead of petroleum (oil, that is). So this fiber, like wool, can claim to be more environmentally friendly than the others.

Acrylic Carpet

If you want wool, but don’t want to pay for wool, acrylic is the closest synthetic fiber to the feel of wool. It resists static and all of the typical destroyers of carpeting, like mildew, soil and stains. It is the least likely fabric to fade in bright sunlight, a plus for homes with lots of exposure. Plus, like all synthetic fabrics, it is not subject to invasion by moths!

Wool Carpet

For natural carpet fibers there is wool. Nothing feels quite like wool, but nearly ever fiber tries to copy its luxuriousness. Naturally resilient and durable (after all, it takes care of sheep quite well), wool resists stains and dirt. This is fortunate, because wool requires very careful cleaning care and it is also more expensive to purchase than the synthetic options. If you have a wool carpet or choose one, getting professional help for your carpet cleaning is critical, and Preferred Carpet Care is here to assist you.

For more information about carpets, carpet care and to arrange an inspection, estimate, or consultation, contact Preferred Carpet Care of Redding via our website or by calling 530-243-8400.