The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Carpet for Kids and Pets
Dirty paws and clumsy little hands can’t keep your floor down
Our children are our joy, and our pets certainly make life brighter. However, our floors take a beating with dogs, cats, and little ones running loose. That’s why choosing the best carpet for kids and pets is crucial. Your flooring needs to withstand the demands of daily life while providing comfort and safety for your loved ones. Explore our top picks for carpeting in homes with kids and pets, and reach out to a local flooring pro for more specifics for your unique situation.
1. Nylon
Nylon is an excellent carpet material for high-traffic areas in homes with kids and pets. Its durability, moisture resistance, stain resistance, and hypoallergenic properties make it ideal for withstanding the demands of daily life in a busy home. However, nylon carpets may have higher VOC levels and can also generate static electricity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly durable | Higher VOCs |
| Stain- and moisture-resistant | Higher cost |
| Hypoallergenic | Static electricity |
Best for: High-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and entryways
2. Wool
Wool carpet is a popular choice for homes with pets and kids because it’s a natural and sustainable type of carpet fiber with inherent stain-repellent properties. It also often has a tight weave that doesn’t snag easily on pets’ claws. However, wool carpets tend to be less durable than stronger fibers like nylon. Wool also requires a high initial investment and may be more susceptible to mold and mildew because it’s very absorbent.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Natural and sustainable | High cost |
| Resists staining | High absorbency |
| Resists snagging | Less durable |
Best for: Low-traffic areas like bedrooms and home offices
3. Polyester
Polyester carpet is an attractive option for families with furry friends because of its incredible softness, stain resistance, and affordability. It resists moisture well, but it may not be as durable as nylon and can show signs of wear faster and become matted when it’s used in high-traffic areas.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Soft and comfortable | Less durable |
| Resists stains and moisture | Becomes matted |
| Affordable | Not as good for high-traffic areas |
Best for: Areas where soft floors are a priority, like bedrooms and kids' playrooms
4. Triexta
Among the newer innovations in carpeting is Triexta, a highly durable and eco-friendly option that’s great for homes with pets and kids. It’s made from natural, environmentally friendly materials that make it stain-resistant, low absorbency, and remarkably soft. However, due to its limited availability, Triexta carpet may have fewer options for colors and styles, and it often comes at a higher price point.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High durability | Limited availability |
| Natural materials | Fewer options |
| Low absorbency | Higher price |
| Stain resistance |
Best for: Areas where moisture and stain resistance are a priority, such as living rooms, entryways, and dining rooms
5. Olefin
Olefin carpeting is prized for its water resistance, stain resistance, and affordability. It’s also highly resistant to claws due to its short, dense pile. However, it may not be as durable as nylon and can feel rougher to the touch. It also doesn’t stand up to extreme wear and tear in high-traffic areas like some other fibers do.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Water- and stain-resistant | Less durable |
| Short, dense pile | Rougher feel |
| Affordable |
Best for: Homes susceptible to messes, such as those with large dogs or multiple young children
Why Your Carpet's Pile Matters
The pile of a carpet refers to the length and density of its fibers, and whether it’s low- or high-pile carpet determines its overall texture and appearance. While high-pile carpets may seem appealing for their softness, they’re not ideal for homes with pets and kids. Pets' claws can tear at the longer carpet loops, and crumbs and pet hair can become deeply embedded, making cleaning difficult.
Medium- or low-pile carpets are better suited to withstand the demands of daily life in these households.
What Features Does the Best Carpet for Kids and Pets Have?
Given the slightly destructive nature of both pets and kids—with pets scratching and clawing at carpets and both leaving stains—it's crucial to choose a carpet material with specific features. This will help you to avoid the cost of carpet repairs and premature replacement.
Durability
The best carpet for pets and kids must be highly durable to withstand the wear and tear of daily life. Look for materials known for their resilience and ability to maintain their appearance over time.
Stain Resistance
Stains are inevitable in a household with pets and kids. Carpets treated with stain-resistant coatings or made from naturally stain-resistant materials are ideal for minimizing the impact of spills and accidents. Decreasing the impact of accidents means you’ll be able to enjoy your carpet for longer before needing to hire a local flooring company to replace it.
Moisture Resistance
Opt for carpets with moisture-resistant properties to prevent mold and mildew growth. Some carpet materials are inherently moisture-resistant, making them suitable choices for homes prone to spills and accidents.
Easy Cleaning
Choose carpets that are easy to clean to maintain a hygienic living environment. Stain-resistant materials like nylon and polyester are easier to clean, requiring simple spot treatments or steam cleaning to remove stains and odors.
Low Volatile Organic Compounds
To ensure the health and safety of your family, opt for carpets with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Many kid- and pet-friendly fibers emit fewer VOCs, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regular vacuuming is essential in homes with animals and children to remove pet hair, dirt, and debris from the carpet's surface. Additionally, prompt cleaning of spills and accidents can prevent stains from setting in. Consider using carpet protectors or area rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear on your new carpeting.
Use carpet deodorizers specifically designed to neutralize pet odors, or opt for enzymatic cleaners to break down odor-causing molecules. For stubborn odors, consider professional carpet cleaning at home to refresh and deodorize your carpet thoroughly. Additionally, maintaining a clean environment and addressing accidents promptly can help prevent odors from becoming entrenched in the carpet fibers.
The life span of carpet in a home with children and animals depends on factors like the carpet material’s quality, how frequently you clean and maintain it, and the level of foot traffic. On average, carpets need to be replaced every five to 15 years. Signs of wear, matting, or persistent odors may indicate that it's time to contact a local flooring company to replace your carpet.