Stain resistant, soft, and just plain pretty-

what's not to like? -By Amber Dawn Barz

Soft and silky

When it comes to how carpet feels, manufacturers are going soft. Several new yarns feel like silk underfoot and are available in a wide array of colors and patterns. You'll be able to feel the difference simply by touching and standing on the carpet samples.

Stain resistant

In previous years, carpets were treated with a chemical to help prevent stains from permanently soaking into the nylon carpet fibers. A new yarn, called triexta, has stain resistance integrated fibers, making cleanup easier than before. Even difficult food, wine, and pet stains come out with very little effort. Look for the durable and soft triexta yarn under the trade name Sorona or SmartStrand.

Extremely durable

New carpet fibers also stay twisted and spring back better than nylons and polyesters of the past. Because of this new durability, several manufacturers are offering lifetime warranties.

Fresh patterns and colors

Patterns and two-toned motifs are very trendy and much more affordable than before. Today you can purchase a carpet with a repeating design in two colors for the same price as a solid carpet. Prefer something more subtle? Consider a sculpted pattern created by varying the cut and loop lengths. Both option offer another advantage- they disguise footprints.

Allergy and Earth friendly

If allergies are a concern, consider choosing products tagged with the Green Label from the Carpet and Rug Institute. The Green Label ensures that the carpet has a low VOC rating, which means there is minimal off-gassing and what low odor there is should dissipate within 48 to 72 hours. Many new carpet fibers are also considered Earth-friendly. These are made from significant amounts of renewable resources and recyclable materials.