Nylon vs Polyester Carpet – Which is Best for Your Home?

COMPOSITION 

Nylon fibre carpet is a synthetic material that results in strong and resilient fibres, making it one of the most reliable carpet materials available. Solution Dyed Nylon (or, SDN) is a popular product as it is innately stain-resistant and easy to clean and live with. It’s a suitable fibre for homes with kids and pets.

Nylon is considered a durable synthetic carpet fibre. Its yarn memory makes it ideal for high-traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms, and offices as they hold their twist and appearance for longer. Nylon retains its shape and appearance even after years of use. Additionally, nylon carpet is especially well-suited for areas that experience significant foot traffic, as it maintains its integrity over time.

SDN carpets have superior anti-stain characteristics that significantly enhance their performance. Solution-dyed nylon is particularly effective in maintaining its colour and resisting discolouration. Stain resistance and ease of care are very high priorities for busy homes- so this might be the perfect product if you’re looking for a new carpet with similar features.

Within all areas of flooring and carpet, there are options to suit different budgets. Talk to your local Flooring Xtra store so they can help point you in the right direction with your particular needs and budget.

Nylon carpets are available in different structures and designs. Textured loop piles and loop piles are very popular and suit both modern and classic homes. They are durable and can feature both linear and more organic patterns. There are also twist piles which are soft and comfortable underfoot. A great option for bedrooms and cosy spaces. We have a thorough blog post on bedroom flooring if you are on the hunt for this room in particular!

Polyester carpets are another popular fibre in the synthetic category. They often feature a rich and deep colour and luxurious feeling, a beautiful characteristic.

Polyester carpet flooring is generally a good option for homes where durability is key. They are not complicated to care for which is another win! They tend to hold their appearance for longer than other fibres, making them look new for an extended time.

Polyester carpets are an excellent choice for households prone to spills. They are resistant to water-soluble stains that are so common in homes with children and pets.

There are many styles and designs of polyester carpets and within this, differing price points. To understand how much installing new flooring might cost, visit our Setting a Budget page to learn more.

Polyester carpets are often praised for their softness. They provide a plush, cushioned feel underfoot, making them a preferred choice for bedrooms and other areas where comfort is a priority. If a luxurious, velvety texture is a top priority, polyester carpets may be the best option for your home- particularly in a cut (twist) pile.

Regular cleaning is essential to maintain an allergy-friendly environment, as dust and pet dander can still accumulate over time regardless of the material. Polyester is a fibre recognised as being great for asthma sufferers. Vacuuming often and professional steam cleaning can help keep carpets allergen-free.

Choosing between nylon and polyester carpeting depends on your specific needs and priorities:

• Choose nylon fibre carpet if you need a highly durable, resilient carpet that will withstand heavy foot traffic and maintain its shape over time. It is ideal for long-term use and areas that require extra durability, such as hallways and living spaces.
• Choose polyester carpet flooring if you want a budget-friendly, softer carpet with excellent stain resistance, particularly against water-based spills. It is a great choice for bedrooms and areas where comfort and affordability are top priorities.

Ultimately, both carpet types have their advantages, and the best choice will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Whether you opt for the resilience of nylon loop pile carpet or the plush comfort of polyester carpets, selecting the right flooring will enhance your home’s style and functionality for years to come.

How often should you vacuum carpet?

Vacuuming frequently will help reduce wear and tear on your carpet by removing dirt and grit from fibres. Vacuum frequently, weekly if possible and book in a yearly professional clean too.

What are carpet beetles?

Carpet beetles are pesky critters that can cause havoc on your beautiful flooring. They can come inside hiding on fresh flowers or through open windows and doors. The larvae feed on animal fibres meaning your wool carpet or rugs can be in serious trouble. There are ways to avoid and tread carpet beetles and you can read our blog to learn more.

Can I install carpet myself?

Flooring Xtra stores have dedicated professional installation teams who are passionate about their job! It’s advised to use professional installers to ensure the correct laying of the carpet but also any pre-installation preparation work that might be needed. Relax and let them do the hard work!