Carpet Fibers
Nylon - Polyester - Olefin - Wool
Nylon (Polyamide)
Nylon, which is a manufactured fiber, is the most commonly used carpet fiber. Basically, nylon is incredible fiber because treated nylon is ranked 1st in durability, stain resistance, and resilience. In 1939, the original commercial production of it was by the Du Pont De Nemours Company (Du Pont).
Identifying Nylon
Nylon requires burning to identify. The method would be the “Burn test”. Use a lighter to burn a separate piece of unknown fiber away from the carpet. When the flame approaches, it melts and shrinks. While in the flame, it melts and burns slowly and is smoky. Removed from the flame, it slowly burns and self-smothers. After it is smothered, it forms in to a shiny brown or gray hard bead.
Polyester
Polyester is naturally stain and fade resistant and exceptional soft. This fiber was established in the carpet world in the 60’s. It wears well and durable against abrasion. It is easily cleaned with a resistance to water-soluble stains. On the other hand, polyester is not as resilient as nylon. Also it is less resistant to flattening than other fibers
Identifying Polyester
Also requires burning to identify is Polyester. The method would be the “Burn test”. Use a lighter to burn a separate piece of unknown fiber away from the carpet. Polyester melts and burns in the flame. When extracted from the flame, it slowly melts and drips. After burned, it forms in to a tough, shine black or brown bead. Burning polyester has a slightly sweet odor.
Olefin (Polypropylene)
Olefin has grown since the 90’s due to the popularity of Berber style loop carpet. The low level of static electricity could also have a reason to the grown popularity. The extreme resistance from moisture and mildew makes it good choice for outdoors. This fiber is used for synthetic turf for sport surfaces. Olefin, which quickly dries, will not absorb water.
Identifying Olefin
Olefin is simple to identify. The effortless method would be the “Float test”. Place the unknown fiber in a glass of water while under the surface squeeze the excess air out. Now, release the unknown fiber under the surface if it floats, the fiber is Olefin.
Wool
Wool is the most popular and oldest of the natural carpet fibers; however, it is the most expensive fiber. The soft, warm, and comfortable feel makes up for the expensive cost. It is highly resilient and earth friendly. In contrast, Wool has high static, low resistance to abrasion, and difficult to remove stains. In general, Wool is the luxury carpet fiber.
Identifying Wool
Also simple to identify is Wool. The simple method would be the “Wet test”. When the carpet fiber smells similar to a wet dog when being cleaned, it is Wool. Another method would be the “Burn test”. Use a lighter to burn a separate piece of unknown fiber away from the carpet. Burning Wool smells similar to burning hair. The last method would be the “Bleach test”. Wool will dissolve in undiluted chlorine bleach.
Carpet Care
Vacuum regularly
You should vacuum once a week but more often in heavy traffic areas.