Wuxi Diamond Carpet--Comparing Nylon & Wool Carpets

When you need new carpeting, comparing nylon and wool carpet can help you make an informed decision. The major difference between the two is the fiber source. Wool carpets are constructed from natural fibers, free of toxins and chemicals unless they\'re added later. Conversely, nylon is a synthetic, man-made fiber created from chemicals. Your choice of wool or nylon carpet should be determined by your specific needs, personal preference and allocated flooring budget.
Durability and Cost
Wool carpet is often considered the premier carpet. Its natural fibers make it extremely strong and durable, so wool carpets typically keep their appearance longer than synthetics. Wool carpets need to be protected from direct sunlight; ultraviolet rays can cause gradual fiber degradation. In addition, wool is flame retardant, burning very slowly and often self-extinguishing. However, the hefty price tag of wool carpets keeps them out of reach for many consumers; they can cost up to twice as much as nylon carpets. Nylon is used in about 65 percent of the carpets sold in the United States, according to the Carpet Buyers Handbook. Nylon carpets are considered the most durable of any synthetic carpet; they are also the most expensive of the synthetics. Special dyes can make nylon carpets resistant to sun damage from UV rays. Similar to wool, nylon carpets tend to burn slowly when in contact with direct flames and are often self-extinguishing.
Mildew and Static
Because wool is porous, it can hold up to 10 times its weight in moisture. Consequently, when wool carpets get wet, they are susceptible to mold and mildew growth. Steam cleaning a wool carpet may saturate the fibers with excessive wet steam, creating an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Also, static tends to build up in wool carpets when humidity levels are low, whereas nylon carpets are often treated with an antistatic treatment to reduce the static. Unlike their wool counterparts, nylon fibers are nonporous and tend to be mold and mildew resistant.
Resiliency and Comfort
Wool carpet are known for long-lasting resiliency. However, wool fibers can wear down when subjected to heavy traffic, which may create bald spots in the carpet. Wool carpets come in a variety of types -- plush pile, twist, modulated or level loop -- to provide cushy comfort. Nylon carpets are typically used for residential and commercial floors. The resiliency of a nylon carpet is determined by its construction, with assorted varieties available to accommodate average, heavy or extremely active traffic areas. Nylon carpets can also be very soft and comfortable.
Cleaning and Care

Wool carpets are stain-resistant and clean well with regular vacuuming. Lanolin, a natural oil present in wool, makes its fibers naturally stain-resistant. Wool is also naturally porous, so avoid spraying any additional soil-resistant protectants on wool carpet -- the product will penetrate rather than protect. Dry foam is the preferred cleaning method for wool rugs. In addition, wool rugs are very susceptible to moth damage, and wool carpets manufactured in the United States are typically moth-proofed. Nylon carpets also clean well with regular vacuuming. Nylon is a nonporous fiber that resists spills and stains. These carpets also have a very high tolerance for moisture absorbency and cleaning chemicals, making almost any professional carpet cleaning method effective.

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