How to Identify & Separate Carpet Materials

Locate the padding, also called carpet cushion, which is the lowest layer of carpet. The padding may be waffle rubber, urethane foam or some other component.

Locate the carpet backing, which is stapled or glued to the padding and is the middle layer of the carpet. Backing may be of any color and is usually made of polypropylene, with a layer of latex.

Identify the carpet fibers. This is the part commonly referred to as the "carpet." It's the most visible layer and is usually made of synthetic fiber like nylon.

Separate the padding from the backing by pulling and tearing at the seams until it comes loose.

Separate the carpet fibers from the backing. This is the most difficult part, since the fibers are looped into the backing so as to be durable and hard to remove. Tear the lower layer of the fibers from the backing layer and pull apart until they are separated.