Whether it’s laminate panels covering new build floors, polished marble tiles as part of renovations, or restoring genuine timber planks by sanding and staining, the UK has fallen for hard floors. In fact, data from Dyson found that three-quarters of UK households have hard floors, also reported by the Telegraph.
The appeal is obvious: hard floors are much easier to clean, especially if you live in a home with pets or anyone with long hair. Instead of being trapped inside carpet fibres, debris, dust and spills are clear to spot and deal with right away.
Does that mean it’s curtains for carpets? Well, not exactly.
What are the benefits of carpet floors?
Carpets and rugs make sense in many areas of the home, like the bedroom and lounge where the textiles muffle noises from the TV and the clatter of footsteps.
They also add a layer of insulation to homes, a feature that comes in useful the moment the temperature drops. And if you choose a thick pile, the pleasure of burrowing toes into the carpet makes getting out of bed in the mornings much easier.
The trouble with carpet is that it can be pricey to buy and fit, with high-traffic areas such as the hallway, stairs or bedside showing wear quickly.
Choosing a hard-wearing carpet or rug to lay over hard floors means your new purchase will last longer. Amid a cost-of-living crisis, this can only ever be a good thing.
What are the best textiles for long-lasting carpets?
Wool is an incredibly robust fibre and is an excellent starting point if you’re searching for a hard-wearing carpet. Not only is it natural and sustainable, but its natural springs mean it can stand up to high footfall and heavy furniture being placed upon it. There’s also the bonus of a delightful softness underfoot that makes it a joy to pad barefoot over.
Another durable choice is sisal. Ideal for areas like hallways, landings, stairs and kitchens, the woven texture is usually flat and easily vacuumed.
Synthetic anti-stain carpets or rugs are also a solid choice for large family homes where stains and spills are part of daily life. They can be easily banished with carpet cleaner and vacuuming.
Is it hard to fit carpet?
While it’s best to seek out a professional to get a seamless finish, there are plenty of guides and how-to videos online for DIY enthusiasts who fancy giving it a while themselves. If you’ve already got hard floors, adding a rug for extra texture and soundproofing can give you the effect of carpet without the expense or effort of having it fitted.
We’ve rounded up the best hard-wearing carpet below to help inspire your search for the perfect floor covering.