In this article we will cover what an olefin fiber carpet is as well as its advantages and disadvantages in order to help
consumers weigh its pros and cons.
Olefin carpet fibers, also known as polypropylene fibers, are one of the best selling carpet fibers, second only to nylon.
Olefin is most commonly used in residential and commercial carpets. Olefin fibers are available in both staple and bulked
continuous filament (BCF) and are usually solution–dyed during fiber production. Olefin is also commonly used to create
synthetic grass or artificial sports turf as well.
Advantages of Olefin Fiber Carpets
Olefin fibers are very durable and moisture resistant making many olefin carpets suitable for use both indoors and
outdoors. They are also inherently wear, fade, and stain resistant as well as colorfast, meaning the colors will not bleed
or lose color. In addition, olefin carpet fibers also resist build–up of static electricity and are resistant to mold
and mildew growth. Olefin carpet fibers are also easy to clean with water and an approved carpet cleaner and are safe from
damage by most chemicals and acid–based stains.
Olefin (polypropylene) is most commonly used where resistance to sunlight fading and chemicals is the most important
factor when selecting carpet. Olefin carpets are priced at a reasonable price point and as an added benefit, are now
recyclable at the end of their lifecycle at some carpet recycling centers.
Disadvantages of Olefin Fiber Carpets
Olefin fiber carpets and most other synthetic carpet fibers, such as nylon and polyester, are made using petrochemicals
which contributes to our dependence on petroleum–based products and therefore contributes to global warming and other
environmental issues. In addition, synthetic olefin carpet fibers are not biodegradable, which means that millions of pounds
of olefin and other synthetics such as nylon are disposed of in landfills on an annual basis and will pollute our planet for
years to come. However, this problem can be avoided by recycling olefin carpet fibers, as previously mentioned.
Besides the potential environmental concerns, olefin is more flammable than the most commonly sold carpet fiber, nylon.
Additionally, depending on the type of fiber construction, olefin fibers may crush easily, which is why looped carpets, such
as Berber, and other types of carpet that have good resilience, are generally the best choice for olefin fibers.
Overall, olefin fiber carpets are a well–priced carpet that performs well in indoor and outdoor, residential and
commercial applications, making it a good choice for many shopping for carpet.
