These days, most carpet carries fiber information which includes such tests as the Vetterman drum tests. (Look for it on quality fiber like Stainmaster® carpet with Tactesse® fiber.) These laboratory trials report on the results of 5,000 revolutions of a cleated ball over carpet, which equates to 5 years of residential traffic. Tests like these are very important to ask for as a customer, since they give hard data on the product’s performance.

Changes in fiber technology have also made it possible for us to use lighter- colored fibers and not have to worry as much about the stain resistance. A new fiber, Smartstrand, a joint project between Mohawk Industries and DuPont, offers a new fiber which accepts dye in a way that penetrates the entire fiber, making it virtually stain-resistant to most foods and beverages.

Like a crackling fire in the fireplace, the right carpet color can increase the warm feel of the room.