Wool, the original fiber used to make textiles of all types, including carpet, is an amazing fiber with incredible characteristics, with a documented history dating back to around 4,000BC. Alexander Smith & Sons, one of the largest carpet manufacturers in the world up to the end of WWII, was at one time the largest employer in Yonkers, New York – producing over 26,000 square yards of woven wool carpets per day. However, the introduction of nylon during the war had a dramatic impact on wool carpet production. As a result, wool carpets today account for only a fraction of the overall carpet production – but they are some of the most beautiful and sought-after carpets in the world!

There are a host of things you’ll love about wool carpets. They hide soil brilliantly, and even when soiled, release dirt easily with most standard commercial cleaning methods available today. Wool carpets, when constructed well and maintained reasonably, will never “ugly out.” Also, because of the fiber’s unique ability to accept dyes, you can find wool carpets in dramatically bright and compelling colors. Lastly, wool is a safe carpet, recognized as non-allergenic and will not burn (it is naturally self-extinguishing).

One of the down sides of wool carpets is that they are expensive.  Another difficulty with wool is its susceptibility to stain. Because wool accepts dyes so readily (giving the deep, rich colors), it will also “accept” stain agents like red wine or fruit drinks. If you have the budget and the discipline to protect against staining agents, you will absolutely love your wool carpet!