Which Carpet is Best for Pets
Looking for pet proof carpeting? Read on to learn which carpets are best at withstanding damage from our four legged friends.
We know that you love your furry friends, but sometimes they can be a bit hard on carpets. Not only do they track in dirt and mud, but their nails can also cause a lot of damage. Finding a carpet that will stand up to your pets is essential.
So, what is the best carpet for pets? In this guide by the Virgin Carpets and Flooring team, we’ll discuss which carpeting features to look for as a pet owner, so your home can be both stylish and pet-friendly.
Durability
Durability is key when it comes to pet-friendly carpets, and not all carpets are created equal in this regard. You’ll want to find a carpet that’s resistant to scratches and stains, as well as one that can withstand high traffic, pawing, and scratching.
Here’s some factors that affect the durability of your carpet:
Pile Height
The higher the pile height, the more likely your carpet is to become matted and stained. So if you have a pet that likes to lie down on the floor, go for a low-pile option instead.
Looped vs. Cut Pile
Looped pile carpets (also known as Berber) are more durable than cut pile carpets, as they’re less likely to snag and pull. So if your pet is a chewer or likes to scratch at the carpet, a looped pile option may be best for you.
Texture
The texture of your carpet can also affect its durability. A rougher surface will be less susceptible to scratches and tears, while a smoother surface will show dirt and paw prints more easily.
Face Weight
The face weight of your carpet is another important consideration when it comes to durability. Face weight refers to the density of fibers on the top surface. The higher the face weight, the more resilient the carpet will be against wear and tear.
Material Type
Carpet material is also a key factor to consider when it comes to pet-friendliness as each material type has advantages and disadvantages.
Here’s the best material types for your pet:
Nylon
Nylon is a very durable material that’s resistant to scratches and tears. It’s also easy to clean, making it a good choice for pet owners.
Polyester
Polyester carpets are also fairly durable, though not quite as scratch-resistant as nylon carpets. They’re still a good option for pet owners, however, as they’re relatively easy to clean and resist staining.
Olefin
Olefin carpets are made from a synthetic fiber that’s resistant to water, which makes them ideal for pet owners. They’re also easy to clean and relatively durable.
Carpet Padding
Finally, don’t forget about the carpet padding! This layer of insulation between your floor and carpet helps protect your flooring from scratches and wear-and-tear, so make sure you choose high-grade padding that can withstand your pet’s activity.
Cleanability
In addition to durability, you’ll also want to consider the cleanability of your chosen carpet. Pet accidents happen, and having a hard-to clean carpet can lead to nasty pet odors that are not good for your health. Some carpets are easier to clean than others, which is important to keep in mind if you have a pet that likes to track in mud and dirt!
One important factor that affects a carpet’s cleanability its stain resistance. You’ll want to look for a carpet that’s resistant to both water-based and oil-based stains, as these are the most common types of stains caused by pets.
Color
When it comes to pet-friendliness, the color of your carpet is another factor to consider.
Here’s which colors are ideal for pet owners:
Dark Colors
Dark-colored carpets hide stains better than light-colored ones, so if you want something that’ll resist staining, go for a darker option. Black and dark gray can be good choices in this regard.
Speckled Carpets
Speckled carpets are also a good choice for pet owners, as they hide dirt and stains better than solid-colored options. These carpets have flecks of different colors which help to conceal dirt and other imperfections.
Low VOCs
Lastly, you’ll want to find a carpet that’s low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are released from carpets over time which can have negative health effects on your pet.
To make sure the carpet you choose is safe for your pet, look for one that meets or exceeds Green Label Plus standards set by the Carpet and Rug Institute. This will ensure it has low VOC emissions which will keep your home safer for both you and your pet.
Too Long Didn’t Read? Here’s the Pet Friendly Carpet Rundown
- Choose a loop pile carpet with a denser face weight
- Choose a nylon or polyester material
- Choose a stain resistant carpet for easier cleaning
- Choose a darker or speckled color that hides stains and dirt more easily
- Choose a carpet with low VOCs to protect your pets
Virgin Carpets and Flooring Can Install Pet Friendly Carpet
Pets can be a part of the family, and your home should reflect that. As a pet owner, it’s our responsibility to choose the right carpeting that will be both beautiful and safe for our four legged friends.
At Virgin Carpets and Flooring, we can help you find the best carpet for your home, complete with all of the features you need to make sure your pet is comfortable too. We have a wide variety of carpets in stock, as well as expert installation services.