Materials
Carpets are made from the following natural and synthetic fibres, which are often blended together to get the best performance:
Tufted twist pile is a cut-pile carpet, where yarn is given an added twist in the spinning process to make more of a textured surface. It's great for hallways stairs and main rooms
Velvet piles have a smooth, luxurious appearance like suede. There isn't much difference in performance between a twist pile and a velvet pile, but their appearance is softer and uses a shorter pile that looks good in formal rooms
Saxony has a sensuous feel with a deep pile and yarn tufts that are packed closely together to form a smooth surface, making it a very popular choice for bedrooms. Saxony carpets do flatten so aren't practical in high traffic areas
Loop or cord piles has a rugged appearance similar to natural flooring, such as coir and sisal and typically they come in natural shades. It looks good in hallways and stairs. However, if you have pets, this style isn't a good option as long claws can catch the loops
Subscribe to Ideal Home for just £20.50 for 12 issues instead of £41 - that's just half price!
Subscribe to Ideal Home Magazine
Take a sneak peek inside our September issue
Upgrade key rooms on a downturn budget with Linda Barker's quick-fix dos and - Read more...
Fill your home with quirky, mid-century furniture Read more...
Add character with wood-effect Timberstone slabs Read more...