Nylon is the most popular carpet fiber — and our best-seller for a reason. It’s soft underfoot, highly durable, and naturally stain-resistant, making it a great choice for busy households. In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 90% of homes have nylon carpet. It’s also reasonably priced, offering excellent value. With proper care, nylon carpet can last 12 to 15 years.

Polypropylene (also known as Olefin) is the second most popular carpet fiber, especially in commercial settings. It's used in roughly 80% of commercial installations thanks to its durability and affordability. In residential spaces, it’s becoming more common due to its softness — nearly comparable to nylon — and excellent stain resistance.

However, polypropylene has a few trade-offs. While it resists staining well, it tends to attract oils, which can hold onto dirt and lead to soiling. It’s also less resilient than nylon, meaning it may show wear more quickly in high-traffic areas. That said, it remains relatively easy to clean and maintain.

In terms of cost, polypropylene is typically priced below nylon but above polyester and acrylic, making it a solid mid-range option.

Polyester is best known as a non-allergenic carpet fiber — and one of the most eco-friendly options available. Some types, like PET polyester, are made from recycled plastic bottles, making them a sustainable choice. Polyester also offers excellent fade resistance, which makes it ideal for bold colors and sunny spaces.

However, polyester has its limitations. It tends to flatten under heavy furniture or foot traffic, making it less suitable for high-traffic areas. It's also prone to oil-based stains, which can be difficult to remove. Still, for bedrooms, guest rooms, or low-traffic areas, polyester can be a soft, affordable, and environmentally conscious choice.

Acrylic carpet is often called “synthetic wool” for its soft feel and wool-like appearance — at a much lower price point. It offers good resistance to moisture, fading, and staining, which makes it appealing for certain spaces.

However, acrylic isn’t as durable as other fibers and doesn't perform well in high-traffic areas. It’s best suited for low-use spaces where comfort and appearance matter more than long-term wear. One important caution: acrylic can discolor (often turning brown) when exposed to certain alkaline cleaning products, so careful maintenance is key.

Wool is the softest and most luxurious carpet fiber available — and it shows in both feel and price. High-grade wool carpets offer unmatched comfort and natural beauty, but they come at a premium. Lower-grade wool is more affordable but tends to be more susceptible to staining.

To strike a balance, some manufacturers blend wool with synthetic fibers (wool/acrylic blends are especially common) to improve durability and reduce cost. Pure wool, however, is chemical-free and naturally hypoallergenic, making it an excellent option for those with allergies or sensitivities.

As a natural material, wool does have a few vulnerabilities. It can be prone to mold and mildew in humid or damp environments, as these organisms feed on organic matter. For that reason, wool is best suited for dry, well-ventilated spaces.