Choose carpeting with a thickness of about 8mm or so as thinner a carpet might wear out quickly.

Carpets generally have a backing of jute, rubber or nylon. You could also have vinyl-backed carpet tiles. They are more expensive but last longer.

Most carpet manufacturers don't give you a guarantee. However, with proper care, you can expect your carpeted flooring to last a good eight to ten years.

Careful with the Carpet

Carpets are not easy-to-maintain flooring. However, if you follow these tips, it won't be a problem at all.

• Vacuum or brush the carpet at least once in two days as dust accumulates easily. Do it in the opposite direction of the pile.
• Use a toothbrush to clean stains. Some carpets are removable. They can even be shampooed with a mild detergent or hair shampoo.
• If water seeps in, blow-dry the carpet or leave it to dry on its own.
• Removable carpets must be washed once a year. There is a special way to remove the carpet as it has been stuck to the floor. Have a carpet cleaner do it for you. It helps maintain the carpet well.

Carpets are a No-No If;

• You have a pet. The fur gets caught into the fibres of the carpet.
• Anyone at home suffers from respiratory ailments like asthma etc.
• You have little children. They tend to pull out tufts of fibre from the carpet, which eventually destroy it.

(With inputs from Birla Trans-Asia Carpet Ltd. and Square Foot)