Discover the Beauty of Berber Carpet: Exploring 3 Different Types and Their Unique Attributes

Berber carpets, one of the oldest fabric choices in Western civilization has been around since before recorded history. Originating with the Berber people of Northwestern Africa, these carpets were made of wool or camel hair, and offered a dense, warm floor covering as well as cloaks to protect against the cold desert nights. Today, there are numerous types of Berber carpets made from a wide variety of materials. The most common materials are nylon, olefin fibers, and a combination of both. Here are the three primary types of Berber carpets and how they differentiate from one another to better help you decide which one to purchase.

Olefin is a synthetic fiber that is derived from the polymerization of ethylene and propylene gases. It was developed in the 1950s, making it the oldest type of Berber carpet. This material is non-petroleum based, so it is generally easier and more cost-effective to produce. Also, olefin fibers naturally resist staining and dyeing, so if you prefer a colorfast option, olefin is the way to go. This type of Berber carpet can typically be purchased for anywhere between $5 and $7 per square foot.

Nylon is a synthetic material that has been utilized in countless applications since it was invented by DuPont Chemical in the 1930s. Being petroleum-based, it is slightly more expensive to manufacture than olefin fibers. It is also easier to dye, unlike olefin, and can be used in many different components. Nylon Berber carpets usually cost around $13 per square foot.

The third type of Berber carpet is made from a combination of both olefin and nylon fibers. The blend of these two materials creates a product that is highly durable and stain-resistant, yet also quite easy to dye. It takes some care to get the mix just right, so expect a product that is slightly pricier than an olefin only option—approximately $10 per square foot.

Before deciding which type of Berber carpet to purchase, educate yourself on the different material norms. Based on how you expect to use the carpet—for high-traffic areas, or light use—you can decide on nylon, olefin, or a combination of both. This way, you can get the product that is right for your particular needs and budget!