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Pets love the comfort of carpets just as much as their owners, and pet-friendly carpets make it easier than ever to maintain a clean home. Browse more pet photos. iStockphoto/ThinkstockPet owners seeking the top carpet for their furry friends often prioritize stain resistance and durability. With pet accidents and the wear and tear caused by active pets, carpets can wear out faster—but it's a small price to pay for the joy and health pets bring into our lives.
More consumers today are considering health and environmental factors when choosing flooring, and finding a carpet that meets these needs is becoming increasingly easier. But first, let's explore why pets are naturally drawn to carpets.
Why Pets Prefer Carpet
Why is carpet an ideal flooring choice for homes with pets? Wall-to-wall carpeting offers more comfort for pets, who spend a lot of time lounging on the floor, sometimes making their owners jealous of their relaxation.
Carpet is a slip-resistant surface that provides more safety for animals, whose paws can easily slide on tiles and hardwood floors. Additionally, carpet absorbs sound, contributing to a quieter and more peaceful living space [source: Carpet and Rug Institute]. That is, unless you belong to the minority who enjoys the persistent sound of pet claws on hardwood.
A common worry about carpet is its potential to worsen asthma and allergies by trapping
It turns out that deep pile carpets are the best option for allergy sufferers, provided that you regularly vacuum and deep clean the carpet. However, most allergy specialists still suggest hardwood or tile flooring [source: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America].
Important Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing Carpet
If you're set on carpet, make sure to consider these key factors to help guide your decision-making process.
Materials
Carpets are typically made from wool, a natural fiber, or synthetic fibers like nylon, olefin, and polyester. Wool is the softest and most luxurious, flame-retardant by nature, and breaks down more quickly in landfills. However, wool is pricier than synthetic options and lacks stain resistance.
Polyester and nylon carpets are the most commonly chosen because they're durable, stain-resistant, and more affordable. These materials are also great choices for homes with children and pets. Olefin and polyester are less expensive than nylon but not as durable [source: Bernick; Tremblay and Williams].
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Carpets and other common household materials may release VOCs, which are chemicals that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and may even cause neurological effects [source: Environmental Protection Agency].
Modern carpets have lower VOC levels, and those bearing The Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label are certified as low-VOC. The production of newer carpets also tends to use less water and energy, with many being made from recycled materials [source: The Carpet and Rug Institute: Sustainability Report 2008].
Carpets Designed Specifically for Pets
Certain carpets are specially designed to stop pet stains from penetrating the carpet padding, preventing moisture from promoting the growth of bacteria and mold.
Consider carpet tiles, which make replacing damaged sections of your carpet a breeze. Some colors and patterns are better at concealing pet hair, so keep this in mind when selecting your new carpet.
Proper Carpet Maintenance
After installing your stylish, pet-friendly carpet, make sure to clean it regularly and thoroughly. Keeping the carpet clean and dry will help prevent mold growth [source: Berry].
To properly maintain your carpet, choose a vacuum endorsed by The Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label program, which helps reduce airborne dust by up to 94% [source: Asbury].
