We are getting new carpet for our family room. With three little boys and a cat we're looking for something that's durable, easy to clean, and doesn't show traffic wear. Do any of you have advice on what type of carpet we should get? Are the big chains like Home Depot and Lowes the best place to buy or local stores or wholesalers in Georgia? There are so many options these days! Thanks!

By Hol on Wednesday, September 20, 2006 - 11:32 pm:

Definitely not something with a high pile. The commercial type carpeting that they use in banks, etc. is very durable and easy to clean. It has a very low, dense pile and comes in some pretty colours. And definitely get a dark or milti-colour.

Home Depot and Lowes do have a lot of samples to choose from, but sometimes the local, privately owned carpet stores give you better service.

By Melanie on Wednesday, September 20, 2006 - 11:42 pm:

I would not recommend Berber type carpeting. Although it is supposed to wear really well, the dirt just sits on top of the carpet making it obvious that it is in need of a vacuuming all the time. With three little ones and a cat, you definitely don't need that kind of stress! No matter what you get, be sure you get a really good pad underneath. That makes all the difference in the world!

By Karen~admin on Thursday, September 21, 2006 - 07:24 am:

Ditto Melanie. We rid our home of carpet last year and I am so glad we did!

By Brooke327 on Thursday, September 21, 2006 - 07:51 am:

I have to disagree, I love my berber carpet, it is very durable and easy to keep clean. You need to buy a higher quality berber because they do have some very cheap ones out there. The better grades of berber come with a gurantee not to show a traffic area or stain or the company will replace it for free. Good luck let us know what you choose.

By Debbie on Thursday, September 21, 2006 - 09:26 am:

We had berber carpet in our basement when we lived in Chicago. It was multi-color, so it didn't show dirt. It was so easy to clean. My Dad spilt coffee, and I was able to get it right up.

I was not a fan of berber before we put it in. But, I will say, if you get a good quality and pad, it is really durable.

By Breann on Thursday, September 21, 2006 - 11:21 am:

We have berber in our family room. Though I don't love the look of it, it is definitely the most durable carpet in our house. It doesn't show traffic wear at all. It's super easy to clean and vacuum. We have a light tan color, with some darker flecks throughout. We have a good pad under it and it's very comfy to lay on the floor and play with the kids.

Good luck!
I love the smell of new carpet