Expert advice on choosing the right carpet

Interior design experts have announced that carpets have made a comeback. If you visit a flooring retailer in North Wales or Cheshire, you may be overwhelmed by the wide choice of carpet materials, colours and patterns. Interior designers have advised consumers on how to choose a carpet that is right for them.

The main carpet decision to make is to choose the material. Should you go for man-made or natural materials? Synthetic materials are good for high footfall areas as they are stain-resistant, and the colours won’t fade. They are also more affordable.

Designer Ann Marie Cousins says that, for those concerned about the environment, wool is a good choice as it is a natural sustainable material that has the feel of luxury.

The next option is the pile, deep or short. Interior designer Laura Short says that a deep-pile carpet is luxurious, but more difficult to clean. Busy households with children, pets or messy teenagers may prefer a short pile carpet.

Pile options include loop or cut. Designer Kelly Collins says that loop pile carpets are better for high-traffic areas. Cut pile carpets are plusher and can create a textured look.

Ann Marie Cousins says that when visiting a carpet retailer, remember that the carpets displayed there will probably look different in the home as the lighting, wall colours, and furnishings affect the appearance of the carpet. Ideally, borrow a few samples and live with them for a few days before choosing the right one for you.