How to choose the right type of carpet

When it comes to choosing the right carpet type, there's a lot to think about. From the type of cut to the material used, different carpet types have different pros and cons. You'll also need to consider what room you are choosing a carpet for, as this may affect, and even limit, your choice of carpet type. In this guide we'll go through everything you need to consider when deciding which type of carpet is best for you.

The Different Types of Carpet

Carpet types tend to be split into two main groups, cut pile and loop pile, and these are then split further into types. Each carpet type has its own benefits and downsides, so it's important to not only have a feel of the different carpets but to also think about the setting where they are going to be placed. You will also need to consider the material of the carpet, and how deep you want the pile. Here we'll go through the different carpet types and everything you need to know about them.

Twist Carpet

Twist carpet is one of the most popular choices. This type of carpet is made by twisting strands of yarn tightly together, creating a dense pile of material that gives a firm feel underfoot. The fibres can either be coarse for a relaxed look or tufted to add softness.

As this carpet type has its fibres densely packed, there's less chance of it flattening, so you don't need to worry about vacuum lines. This also makes twist carpets a great choice for high-traffic areas, such as hallways, as they are very durable. Some of the twist carpets available combine yarns of complementary shades, this creates a multicoloured, flecked look which can help to hide marks and dirt.

However, higher twist levels are the best in this carpet type, but the higher the twist level, the more expensive these carpets can be. They can also be a little harsher underfoot than other carpets.

Saxony Carpet

A type of cut pile carpet, Saxony carpets have long, fine, densely packed fibres, which are cut in a smooth and even way. This gives a rich and luxurious feel underfoot, and a beautiful visual appearance. Not only are Saxony carpets luxuriously soft, but they are durable too, though they may not be as good for very high-traffic rooms. For bedrooms and living rooms they have the perfect blend of comfort and durability. This carpet type is available in a variety of colours and decorative styles, so you'll have plenty of choice with this carpet.

On the other side of the coin, there are some downsides that you need to think about when looking at Saxony carpets. Firstly, although they are durable, they show indentations due to the lightness of the pile. Even regular vacuuming can leave indentations, so if you're planning to place heavy furniture on this type of carpet, don't plan on moving it! Because of the denseness of the fibres, Saxony carpets can also act like a sponge, soaking up any spills, which can make them more prone to stains. There's also a risk of watermarking with plush carpets. This is caused by permanent pile reversal which makes areas of the carpet look darker, and so appear wet.

Loop Pile Carpet

If you're looking for a hardwearing carpet for a room with heavy footfall, a loop pile carpet is a good choice. This type of carpet is made from heavy and wide fibres that are left uncut and simply looped. This creates a textured look and feel.

Loop carpets are available in many colours and patterns, which make them a popular choice. A patterned carpet in this type can help to hide stains, so is a good choice if you have pets or children. You also have a choice of material with loop pile carpets, as these can be made from natural materials like wool, or synthetic.

On the other hand, this carpet isn't always good for pets, as long claws can snag on longer loops. This carpet type also isn't as luxurious and soft underfoot as others, though it does have a cosier feel than Berber.

Berber Carpet

Berber is a type of loop pile carpet; so, the yarns are looped and not cut. These loops make the carpet more durable than cut pile options and give a distinctive knot effect. Berber uses thick yarn to make these loops and is a very durable and smooth carpet. This type of carpet is designed to last and is even stain resistant. Berber carpets are available in a wide variety of colours, patterns and designs that can be made through various levels of the loop. The natural flecks found in this type of carpet helps to hide dirt too. Because of the amount of choice, and durability, this is a very popular type of carpet. Berber carpets also tend to be cheaper than other carpet types, making them great for family homes.

On the other hand, Berber carpets are prone to snags, so may not be the best idea if you have pets running around, as claws can get caught. Another downside is that, despite their durability, they can stain easily, especially if you don't clean spills quickly. They also aren't as soft on the feet as other carpet types.

Cut and Loop Carpet

Cut and loop pile carpets, sometimes called sculpted pile, are a mixture of both cut and loop styles, usually used to create patterned carpets. This creates height and texture variations in the carpet and can give a three-dimensional texture. The pattern on these carpets is made from the construction, and not the use of dyes. The biggest advantage of this carpet is the range of patterns you can find. How durable and stain-resistant the carpet is, however, will depend on the types of cut and loop styles used.

On the other hand because some of the longer cut fibres in cut and loop carpets can bend or untwist over the top of shorter looped fibres, they can quickly look worn. Therefore, it's best not to put this type of carpet in high-traffic areas. These carpets can also be more expensive, especially if you are looking at intricate patterns.

Velvet Carpet

Velvet carpets are super soft and luxurious, as the name suggests. Created by having straighter fibres densely packed, with the ends cut at the top, this carpet type has a velvety feel that adds an elegance to the room.

Because the pile on this type of carpet is short but dense, it requires less maintenance than other carpet types. It can also be a durable carpet even in rooms with high footfall.

However, even though velvet carpet is durable, it can be indented if you put heavy furniture on it. So, if you are placing this carpet in a room with furniture, be sure you want the furniture to remain in the same place. Another downside to this carpet type is that it is prone to staining by water.

Carpet Materials

Once you have chosen the type of carpet cut or loop, you'll have to decide on the material, as this can play a big role too. Some styles are only available in certain materials, and the material you choose will affect the softness and durability. So, it's important to consider the style of pile and the material together.

There are a range of carpet materials available, including manmade and even eco-friendly carpets. There are also combinations of materials that can give you the best of both worlds.

For the pros and cons of various materials, check out our Best Carpet Materials Guide.

Tips on Choosing the Best Carpet Type

It's hard to say which is the best carpet type, as it depends on so many factors. Here are some tips for when it comes to choosing your new type of carpet:

• Think about your budget: your budget will play a big part in which type of carpet is best for you, as different styles and materials have very different price ranges. But this doesn't mean you can't get a soft, luxurious carpet with a small budget, check out different combinations of styles and materials within your budget, and you'll be surprised at the variety.
• Consider what's important for the room: different rooms will have different needs, so it's important to look at the different pros and cons of each carpet type and material. For a bathroom or kitchen, you'll want a carpet that is waterproof, a living area or bedroom may require a softer carpet, whereas for hallways and stairs durability is vital. If you have young children, stain resistance and ease of cleaning will be important too. You'll also need to think about the furniture in the room, as some carpet types can be damaged by heavy furniture.
• Look at warranties: various carpets and brands can have different warranties, from 5 to 10-year options, and may even include a guarantee against stains. So, when you're looking have a glance at the warranty too, but don't base your choice solely on this.
• Contemplate footfall: the amount of footfall can seriously affect a carpet. If you're looking for a new carpet for a high footfall room, you'll need to consider how the type and material will deal with high traffic.
• Check the density: when it comes to the density of the pile, as a general rule of thumb, the denser the carpet the better the quality and more durable. So, when choosing between similar styles, compare the density, which you should be able to find on the sample. But if you can't locate the density, simply fold the sample backwards, if you can easily see the backing, it is a low-density carpet. It's especially important to check this on carpets that look like a "great deal", as they may look hardwearing, but actually be low density.
• Remember the underlay: a good underlay can make all the difference to a new carpet, so be sure to check the quality and wear of your current underlay. Underlay can help increase the durability of your new carpet, and the enhance the feel of the carpet under-foot.

If you're choosing a new carpet, it's a good idea to order some carpet samples of your favourites. That way you can see what they'll look like in the room, and get a feel of the different types and materials.