Wool is an excellent natural fibre that has been used in carpets and rugs for centuries. It offers superb resilience to wear because of the inherent ability of the fibre to ‘bounce back’ and recover following the pressure of foot traffic – so retaining its looks over the years. Because of the characteristics of the fibre, it has a natural ability to resist general soiling and responds well to professional cleaning, bouncing back to life. Wool is mainly used on its own in a pure 100% form for loop pile carpets or in 80% wool blends with nylon and polypropylene in cut pile.

If you’re looking to carpet the heavier duty areas of the home such as the hall, stairs or landing then opt for a hard wearing practical carpet – like a wool mix blend – that maintains its appearance. It pays dividends to spend slightly more for heavier pile weight carpet (which incorporates more yarn on the pile surface).

Alternatively, polypropylene is a great ‘family friendly’ fibre, generally costs less per square metre and is ideal for children’s bedrooms or playrooms where sticky fingers and spills are common.

Bedroom carpets do not receive such regular use and therefore carpets with more luxurious qualities can be used.

For living rooms or dining rooms consider either a wool mix or a heavier weight polypropylene.

When looking for a carpet, here’s a handy hint for choosing wool or a polypropylene carpet:

Top benefits of wool carpet:

• Hard wearing and long lasting
• Retains its pile shape and height
• Recovers quickly from furniture compression
• Is naturally flame retardant
• Environmentally friendly and sustainable fibre

Top benefits of polypropylene carpet:

• Highly stain resistant
• Easy to clean
• Durable
• Good colour fastness
• Good value for money

Source: Nouwens Carpets | whats new | So what’s the difference between wool and polypropylene carpets?