Before heading to the home improvement store, it’s important to know which types of carpet are the most plush. With so many styles and piles to choose from, you don’t want to risk feeling overwhelmed. Instead, you should go in prepared with basic knowledge and some idea of what you want.
When it comes to carpet, not everyone has the same taste. However, many people agree that plush is the way to go. Before installing new carpet or replacing your existing floors, you should know the benefits and drawbacks of each type and understand which will work best for your setting. Therefore, we have compiled a list of 12 of the most plush types of carpet available. Check them out below.
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Most Plush Carpet Fibers
Some carpet fibers are softer and more plush than others. See our list of the softest types below.
1. Wool
Wool is the most luxurious carpet on the market. This natural, sustainable product is the softest fiber you will find.
With luxury, however, comes a high price tag. When you purchase high-quality wool carpet, it will resist stains and last a long time. If you go with cheaply made wool, on the other hand, the quality will be lacking, and your floor will be more susceptible to stains.
2. Acrylic
Aside from wool, acrylic is the softest carpet fiber available, mimicking both the look and feel of wool carpet. The price tag isn’t as high as that of wool, but it is more expensive than other synthetic fibers.
Although it resists moisture, mildew, and stains, acrylic carpet is not durable. Therefore, it is not ideal for use in high traffic areas such as living rooms.
3. Polypropylene (Olefin)
Polypropylene, also known as olefin, is another synthetic fiber that mimics the qualities of wool. However, it is not as soft as nylon and will not last as long.
Although olefin is easy to clean, it attracts dirt and oils, so you will spend more time cleaning it than you would carpets made of other fibers. As far as price is concerned, olefin is less expensive than nylon, but you’ll notice that it’s a bit higher than acrylic and polyester style carpets.
4. Nylon
Nylon is the most widely used material for carpets. Not only is it pleasantly soft, but it is also affordable, durable, and resistant to stains.
Its synthetic nature makes it resistant to mold, mildew, and rot. If you properly care for it, nylon carpet will last more than a decade.
5. Polyester
Polyester is typically softer and cheaper than nylon, but it is not as durable. However, the quality of the carpet will depend on the particular product you purchase.
It’s always best to pay a little extra to get a product you will be happy with instead of buying the cheap stuff that doesn’t last.
Smabee Interlocking Carpet Shaggy Soft EVA Foam
Smabee Carpet Squares are an excellent example of quality polyester carpeting. Not only is it shaggy and super soft but it is also incredibly easy to install without the help of a professional. The backs of the interlocking carpet squares are equipped with adhesive, and they snap together.
One of the aspects of carpet that makes it extra plush is the type of padding you choose. This carpet is made with high-density EVA foam padding which is strong and offers plenty of cushioning as well as support against the toughest subfloors.
View these interlocking carpet tiles on Amazon.
6. Triexta
Triexta is fairly new to the carpet industry and offers many desirable qualities. When it comes to plushness, this fiber is softer than both nylon and polyester.
Not only that, but it also does not stain easily. In fact, spills will not absorb into this carpet. Instead, it wicks it away, allowing you to clean most accidents with a cloth and water instead of a spot cleaner and soap.
Additionally, triexta carpet will not fade when exposed to direct sunlight. Below, you will learn that loop pile carpets are notoriously rough to the touch. However, triexta is so soft that even loop piles are plush and comfortable for bare feet.
With all these benefits, you would expect it to be a bit expensive. However, triexta is affordable and costs less than nylon.
Most Plush Carpet Piles
Although there are different fibers from which carpets are made, ultimately, the pile determines the plushness of the carpet. No matter how soft the material is, if it is not constructed properly, you will not achieve that plush feeling when you walk through the room.
1. Cut Pile
If you want plush carpet that is luxuriously soft and comfortable, you want to purchase cut pile.
No matter what fiber is used, with the exception of triexta, loop pile carpets will be rough under your feet. When the loop tops are cut, this is known as cut pile. It creates frayed ends that are soft and easier to clean.
Cut pile, on the other hand, does have its drawbacks. Although you will enjoy the cushioned effect, this type of carpet holds indentations from foot traffic and furniture. It is also not as durable as loop pile carpets, and you will likely have to replace it more often.
2. High Pile
High pile carpet is extremely plush and inviting. Its fuzzy softness makes it perfect for people who spend time doing activities on the floor. The cut fibers are long and offer extra cushion along with heat retention properties.
However, high piles are prone to denting under the pressure of furniture. On the plus side, it is durable and will last a long time, but it attracts dirt and debris, making it more difficult to keep clean.
3. Saxony Cut Pile
Saxony pile carpet belongs in the cut pile category. Soft, dense fibers create a fuzzy effect that makes the carpet extremely inviting.
This luxurious carpet is one of the most expensive on the market, but it is best suited for low-traffic areas such as bedrooms. It is highly prone to stains and regular wear, and any amount of pressure will cause the fibers to lay flat.
4. Plush Pile
Although plush pile is soft and luxurious, it is best for use in extremely low-traffic settings. It belongs in the cut pile category, featuring shortly cut, dense fibers. Plush pile is cut shorter than that of Saxony pile and is even more prone to damage and stains.
5. Frieze Cut
Frieze cut carpet, as the name implies, is another type of carpet with cut fibers. However, instead of the fibers being frayed, they are twisted tightly.
The strands are long and have a shaggy appearance. Although this carpet style is plush, it has an informal look that will be best in relaxed settings such as dens, living rooms, or game rooms.
Unlike many other plush carpets, frieze cut will not dent under pressure. This makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. It also conceals dirt and debris very well, but it can be extremely difficult to clean. It is more expensive than other styles, but it will last for a long time if properly maintained.
6. Textured Plush
Textured plush pile is very much similar to plush pile carpet. The fibers are cut, but they are of varying lengths and angles.
This allows it to be thicker than the typical plush pile, and it holds up better to foot traffic. Although textured plush carpet is soft, it is not as soft as regular plush carpet. Generally speaking, it is less expensive than plush, and it is more durable.
Which Carpet is Right for Your Home?
Ultimately, the carpet that is best for your home will depend on your family’s particular needs. If you live alone with no pets, you won’t have to worry as much about stains and foot traffic.
However, if you have children and pets in your home, you will need a carpet that is durable, easy to clean, and withstands spills.
You will also need to take into account the rooms in which you will be installing the carpet. For example, if it will be going in a guest bedroom that rarely gets used, you can feel at ease using a more luxurious carpet that doesn’t clean easily.
However, if you are choosing carpet for your living room that sees a lot of children, pets, and visitors, you will want to choose something more resilient to stains, durable, and easy to clean.
In Closing
When you are ready to install new carpet in your home or office, it’s important to choose the right fibers and pile for your particular needs. For the most plush and comfortable floors on the market, follow the guidelines in the above list, making sure to choose a carpet that fits your budget and style.
For more helpful carpet tips, check out these other posts:
What Types Of Carpet Are Easiest To Clean?
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What Is The Best Color For Bedroom Carpet?