Not all carpets are created equal. You know that’s true in terms of softness, durability and (if you’ve ever shopped at Home Depot) price point.
But what about cleanliness?
In this post, we’ll take a look at the different types of carpet, how easy they are to clean, and what to do if yours could use some help.
What Types of Carpet Are Easiest to Clean?
How easy (or hard) your carpet is to clean depends on two primary factors:
- The carpet loop
- The carpet fabric
Carpet Loop
In general, the bigger the carpet loop, the easier the carpet is to clean. That’s because soil isn’t able to penetrate much deeper than the loops it touches.
Carpet types with smaller loops may not look as dirty, but they can actually conceal quite a bit more dirt.
Here are some of the most common carpet loop types and their durability:
- Loop pile (level, Berber, multi-level): Very durable, stain resistant
- Cut pile (plush, textured, saxony, frieze, cable): Denser, softer, easier to appear clean but more difficult to keep clean
Carpet Fabric
Generally, the stronger the carpet fabric, the easier the carpet is to clean. Like most things in life, the more you pay for something, the longer it will last.
Here are some of the most common carpet fabric types and their durability:
- Nylon: Strong, long-lasting, very easy to clean
- Polypropylene: Less expensive, easy to maintain
- Wool: Thick, dense, hides dirt, more fragile, less stain resistant
Does the Carpet Pad Matter?
Short answer: yes.
A high-quality, heavyweight carpet pad does more than just make your carpet feel soft. It also extends its lifespan.
While foam-based padding can absorb and show stains, padding made of foam chips and recycled rubber can repel stains, making your carpet easier to clean. So, as we’ve said before, don’t skimp on the underpad!
What About Rugs?
Yes, rugs can (and should!) be cleaned as well.
Rugs can be more finicky than carpets, but many can be cleaned with the same hot water extraction process that professionals (like INTEK) use on carpets. Be sure to check the tag on your rug (or consult the business where you bought it) to be sure you’re caring for your rug appropriately.
What’s the Best Way to Clean My Carpet?
We wouldn’t be a good cleaning company if we didn’t say, “Hire us!” 😉
In truth, professional carpet cleaning is the best way to clean your carpet — no matter what type it is. After all, a household vacuum can only do so much. Learn more about our carpet cleaning process and products to see how we use only the safest, most effective methods for all carpet types.
Then, check out our carpet cleaning packages in Sioux Falls and Yankton to find the right one for your home!
