Carpets: types of materials, features, how to choose

Carpets are elements of the interior, which create a special comfort. A soft covering makes the floor warmer and the footsteps quieter. The design of the carpet decorates the design of the room: complements it or serves as a color accent. There are many kinds of carpets. Consider the characteristics of materials and a few tips on the choice.

The main differences of materials of carpets

Carpets are classified according to the composition of the fibers:

• Natural threads of cotton, wool are used in expensive carpets. Such materials require proper care, then they last a long time and retain an attractive appearance. They can burn in the sun, deteriorate from moisture, shrink in size after washing.
• Synthetic fibers that do not burn out or deteriorate from moisture make carpets practical. These materials are light in weight, easy to clean, do not burn out in the sun.
• The combination of synthetic and natural threads increases the wear resistance of products.

Carpets are produced in two ways:

• Machine-made carpets - the most common technology. Machines quickly and qualitatively produce many products from synthetic and natural fibers.
• Handmade carpets are a time-consuming, labor-intensive process. Such things are considered exclusive and are expensive. They are most often made from natural materials.

Carpets made of natural or synthetic threads may have low or high pile. It may be soft or dense. Also lint-free carpets with smooth surface are made.

Types of materials for carpets

The most common materials from which carpets are made:

• Wool - most often, camel, sheep. Materials vary in softness. Wool is impregnated with moisture-proof and antiseptic additives to protect the carpet from moisture and from moths. Quality wool rugs can last more than 30 years if care recommendations are followed.
• Viscose is a synthetic material made from cellulose products. The threads are slightly shiny, shimmering in the light. The material is dyed in a variety of persistent colors.
• Polyester gives a dense, soft and warm touch pile.
• Acrylic does not deteriorate from moisture, so carpets made of it are suitable for use in bathrooms and kitchens. However, they do wear out quickly.
• Cotton is a lightweight natural material that makes stylish rugs. Synthetic threads are added to increase durability.
• Silk looks rich and costs more than wool. Carpets made of it are smooth, iridescent, with detailed ornaments. They are hung on the wall as a decoration and are rarely used as a floor covering.

How to choose a carpet material

A few tips for choosing carpets:

• The material of the product is chosen in accordance with where the carpet will be located. For the bathroom and kitchen choose synthetic rugs. For the living room, the office will be a decoration coverings on the floor of natural wool. For the bedroom, any material is fine.
• Wool requires proper care. Carpets made of it are not washed, and regularly vacuumed in the direction of the pile. For wet cleaning, use cold water and mild detergents. It is desirable to use a vacuum cleaner with a dryer.
• If you are allergic to wool, choose carpets made of acrylic or other synthetic material. It is important that the dyes do not exude a chemical odor.

Modern carpets are made so that the pile retains its shape, the colors do not burn, and the weave was strong. Even wool products retain their attractive appearance for years.