Wool Vs. Synthetic Carpeting

Wool Advantages

• Wool is made from a natural, renewable resource, which makes the fiber environmentally friendly. It is flame retardant and resists crushing and wear, which extends a carpet's longevity. Wool's natural oils make it softer to the touch than synthetic carpeting.

Wool Disadvantages

• Its inherently short fibers make wool prone to shedding. Wool is also a food for pests such as moths. Because it holds many times its weight in water, it is susceptible to mold and mildew.

Synthetic Varieties

• Approximately 65 percent of carpeting manufactured in the United States is made of nylon, which is the most durable synthetic fiber. Other synthetic fibers are polypropylene, also known as olefin, and polyester. Olefin is growing in popularity because it is economical. Polyester carpeting is available in a wide variety of colors. Acrylic fibers are used in a small segment of the market

Synthetic Characteristics

• All synthetic carpeting is resistant to mold and mildew and is stain resistant. None are considered environmentally friendly as manufacture involves the use of oil products.