Why Wool Carpet Is Environmentally Friendly
As winter approaches, there is nothing like the sense of comfort when we think about our cozy, warm homes. It’s the time of year for winter-proofing your home and getting a new carpet is often high on the list.
That being said, choosing the right kind of carpet is an important decision as it not only affects the comfort of our homes, but also has an impact on the environment. One of the best choices that homeowners and landlords can make is wool. Wool is an environmentally friendly material that is perfect for carpets. It has several benefits, from being sustainable to being easy to clean and maintain.
Wool is Sustainable and Biodegradable:
Wool is a natural and renewable resource making it a sustainable choice for carpets. It is produced naturally and requires no artificial chemicals during production. Shearing sheep is part of their care, and they eat grass and drink water, which are both renewable resources. This means that their wool is a renewable resource and despite how hardy it is as a carpet, it is biodegradable.
Natural Wool is Hypoallergenic and VOC Free
For many people, allergies can be a major concern. Choosing wool as a carpet material can reduce allergic reactions in the home, as wool naturally resists bacteria and dust mites. These are a common source of indoor air pollution.
Wool fibres differ from plastic fibres as instead of releasing VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), wool absorbs them. Wool also locks in moisture, dust and the airborne particles of chemicals used in the home. This reduces their impact upon the air quality in the home, and remarkably, the quality of the wool carpet is not impacted despite this process.
Wool Carpets are Durable and Easy to Clean
As a material, wool is brilliantly durable. It can last up to twice as long as synthetic carpets, with proper care and maintenance. Wool naturally repels liquids (otherwise the sheep would get wet!), and oil-based grime, which makes it easy to clean and acts as a natural barrier against stains. Despite the natural ability to absorb VOC’s, wool is less likely to absorb odours or develop mould or mildew. Everyday care for a wool carpet is just regular vacuuming which is no different from a synthetic carpet.
The longevity of wool carpets come from a natural feature of wool. Their molecular structure means they bounce-back easily from pressure. In other words, they are harder to cause structural damage to, making them especially great as carpet in hallways and high traffic areas.
Wool Carpet is an All-Season Material
When it comes to carpets, homeowners want something that will keep their home warm and cozy in winter but also cool in summer. Wool carpets help regulate indoor temperature, keeping homes warm in winters and cooler in summers. Wool fibres have the amazing ability to insulate against the cold, while also allowing for breathability. With a good quality underlay, homeowners can save as much as 8-13% on heating bills with wool carpet.
Wool Carpets are a Stylish Choice
The main feature wool carpets are known for is the luxurious look and feel. For a material that is so durable, it is soft and feels comforting on bare feet. Wool fibres come in a variety of lengths and can be dyed into a wide range of colours. There are also a variety of textures, patterns and designs available, allowing homeowners to create a stylish look that matches their home décor and personal style.
Wool Carpets Are Ideal For Rented Properties
Landlords, you need a carpet that is highly durable, long-lasting and safe. When compared to nylon and polyester, wool is more flame-resistant. The mould repellent, VOC absorption features make it unique amongst carpet choices. The durability makes wool carpet a top choice for turnover of tenants so you won’t have to keep changing the carpet each time someone moves out, plus tenants will be more likely to care for the carpet if they believe it is a luxury feature.
Wool carpets are a smart choice for homeowners and landlords looking for the perfect environmentally friendly carpet. By choosing wool carpets, you’re not just supporting the environment, but also ensuring the comfort and health of your family, friends, and tenants.
We stock a range of beautiful wool carpet choices in our Market Harborough showroom, come and visit to see for yourself and learn more about the amazing properties of wool carpets.