Carpets for beginners

Many homes in the UK have long replaced their carpets with wooden floors or laminates; however, the luxurious deep pile of a high-quality carpet can add a touch of much-needed comfort and warmth, especially in bedrooms and living rooms, or indeed in any space in which you want to relax. Many modern homeowners are choosing to floor their homes with a combination of flooring types to ensure the perfect finish in every room. While laminates or hardwood floors are great in dining rooms and hallways, there is nothing quite like the feeling of sinking your bare feet into a soft, cosy carpet when you step out of bed.

If you are thinking of reintroducing carpet into your home but do not know where to start, here is a quick overview of some of the most popular types you will find on the market today.

Saxony carpets

These are very popular, with a pleasing and elegant appearance that offers a stylish finish. They are perfect in bedrooms or living rooms, as they add a touch of luxury to any space and are soft, warm and comfortable underfoot.

Berber carpets

These are tough and durable carpets, ideal for rooms with a lot of foot traffic or where you do not want anything too soft and decadent. They are hardwearing and can look great in modern homes, as they are generally very minimalist in appearance and go very well with rustic, simple decor in neutral tones.

Shag-pile carpets

While these are often associated with the 1970s and 1980s, they are making something of a comeback due to their retro charm and fun appearance and feel. They are the ultimate in luxury and are ideal in decadent bedrooms where you want everything to be soft, warm and comfortable.

Twist carpets

These are produced using twisted yarns that create an interesting texture. They are often hardwearing, making them ideal for family homes. The twisted fibres and textured appearance gives these carpets a pleasing finish that can look very timeless and classic.

Before you buy any new carpet for your home, it is important you check that it is suitable for the room it is intended for. Deep pile carpets are not generally recommended for very busy rooms of the home, as constant foot traffic can cause visible wear and tear more quickly. Looped pile carpets are often unsuitable for homes with pets, as sharp claws can easily get caught; in addition, your furry friends might be tempted to scratch at your new carpet, quickly causing damage.