How to Choose Carpeting That Doesn't Show Footprints

How to Choose Carpeting That Doesn't Show Footprints

While the idea of creating a lasting impression is a good thing, it does not work so well when that impression is left in the center of your living room carpet. Footprints and mating are usually caused by soft carpeting, but that is not the only thing to consider when purchasing durable carpet. You can put more spring in your step with the right carpet padding beneath carpets, by viewing carpet ratings based on wear and density, as well as exploring different textures and weaves.

Tightly Wound Frieze

The starting point for buying carpet that does not show footprints begins with looking at carpets that contain tightly twisted fibers such as frieze carpeting. Because of the way it is made, frieze carpeting effectively eliminates traffic patterns and vacuum marks. Offered in many varied designs, frieze is made out of polyester and nylon, which both provide a clean bounce-back for footprints. Make note that nylon offers more durability overall than polyester. While plush carpeting appears velvety, frieze carpeting displays a more casual look while suiting contemporary decor styles. Its heat-set fibers create slightly curved yarns that have a curly textural surface as opposed to shag and plush carpeting that show every footprint.

Resilient Loop Pile Berber

Examine loop-pile carpets such as Berber, which does not show any footprints or marks at all. It makes an ideal choice for dressing all those common areas of your home, and rooms where you may socialize frequently. A loop pile carpet, Berber's yarns are sewn through the back of the carpet. Multilevel loop rugs offer a dimensional appearance unlike cut carpet, which has as a straight, tufted appearance. When choosing carpet for the high-traffic areas of your home, couple your design perspective with a touch of realism. For example, a multi-level or patterned Berber rug stylishly conceals the appearance of footprints when compared to fancy, thick-pile carpeting.

Steer Clear of Soft Plush

Plush carpeting better suits cozy bedrooms and less-trafficked areas of your home. Although plush feels ultra-soft on your feet, it does leave a footprint. Plush carpet is made of cut pile fibers of equal height that readily show footprints, vacuum marks, and deep indents from furniture legs. If your heart is still set on plush carpeting, consider an alternative for concealing footprints called textured plush. The cut-pile fibers, firmly twisted at different angels, reflect light, which also gives the carpet a more rustic feeling. Overall, a looped fiber carpet prevents imprints better.

Naturally Anywhere Rugs

An easy non-plush sectional or durable area rug simply eliminates the worry of carpet impressions. Inspired by the outdoors, natural fiber rugs such as sisal, jute, and sea grass, offer worthy choices for any room. Natural rugs withstand heavy foot traffic and carry tranquil details from leaves to blue swirls. The one downside with natural fibers is a tendency toward fraying along the edges, especially from long-term footwear. You can avoid fraying by purchasing a rug that is made with a sturdy border and heavy stitching. A variety of rugs possess textural and sturdy surfaces for withstanding footprints, so look for rugs made with weave-and-stitch techniques, such as cross-weaving, drop-stitching and double-pointing.