Nylon is the most popular of the carpet fibers, and is our best-seller. It is very soft, durable, and stain-resistant resistant. Because of this, it is estimated that about 90% of all homes have nylon carpet. It is also pretty affordably priced. If cared for well, and properly, nylon carpet can last about 12 to 15 years.

Polypropylene (often called Olefin) is the second best-selling carpet fiber. It’s used in about 80% of commercial applications. It is becoming increasingly popular for use in homes, since it wears well and is almost as soft as nylon. Polypropylene is highly stain-resistant but is prone to soiling. It also holds onto oils, which in turn, collect dirt. However, it is still relatively easy to clean. It is important to note that polypropylene is not as resilient as nylon. Price wise, polypropylene is slightly less than most nylon carpets, but more than both polyester and acrylic.

Polyester is best known for being the non-allergenic carpet fiber. One type of polyester carpet, known as polyester/PET, is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it also eco-friendly. It also is known for being fade-resistant, even when it comes to bright or bold colors. Unfortunately though, polyester is prone to flattening under weight, making it a poor choice for high-traffic areas. It can also be prone to oil stains, which are very difficult to remove from polyester.

Acrylic carpet is sometimes referred to as "synthetic wool" because it mimics the feel and appearance of wool, but costs a fraction of the price. While acrylic has a good resistance to moisture, fading, and staining, it’s not very durable, and doesn't hold up well in high-traffic areas. Additionally, acrylic carpet can turn brown if stained with certain alkaline chemicals, often found in cleaning products.

Wool is by far the softest carpet fiber you can buy. Unfortunately though, the luxurious feel does come at a price, as high-grade wool is extremely expensive. While low-grade wool is more affordable than high-grade, it is susceptible to staining. Some manufacturers will combine wool and synthetic fibers to create a carpet with the benefits of both (with wool/acrylic blends being especially common.) Pure wool carpet is made with no chemicals or additives, which makes it an excellent choice for those with allergies or sensitivities. However, being a natural material, wool can be prone to damage from mold and mildew, which feed on organic substances. Wool is therefore not an ideal choice for areas where high humidity and moisture are an issue.