Choosing flooring for a child’s bedroom can present with many challenges. Lots of people assume that having a carpet is not a good idea, since children and carpets do not mix all that well. Yet the reality can be a lot different, and there is no reason why this should not be a feature of your child’s bedroom.
Comfort and Warmth
The advantage of having carpet in a child’s bedroom, or any bedroom for that matter, is that it can provide a lot of comfort and warmth — especially important for those cold winter months. Children tend to spend a lot of time in their rooms playing, studying and sleeping, so having a warm and cosy place is ideal. Some experts even argue that carpets can cushion sound, which is perfect for those children who like to make lots of noise.
Colour Choice
How do you go about deciding which type of carpet to choose for your child’s room? You need one that will be able to withstand stains and muck, but won’t break the bank at the same time. There are lots of considerations to think about, and one of the first aspects you might want to ponder over is colour choice. For hiding stains, a good colour to plump for is a marbled medium tone that will make any marks harder to spot. Neutral brown, tan or dark shades, as well as concealing imperfections, can add a sense of space to a room and tend to blend in with most types and colours of furniture and furnishings. You could even add play mats to this colour without it looking out of place. Avoid shades that are very light, as they will show dirt up in an instant.
Nylon
The second biggest consideration when deciding on carpets is to choose the type of material or fibre carefully, as this can impact on ease of removing stains and its durability. Nylon, or a nylon blend, is a good choice for frequently used areas such as a child’s room, as it can withstand a lot of wear and tear, the colour stays well and the fibres tend not to unravel.
Scotchgard or Teflon-Coated
Carpets that have been treated with Scotchgard or Teflon make an ideal choice for a child’s bedroom, as they will prevent stains from setting into the fabric.
Traditional Brands
If you are shopping on a budget, then traditional cut piles or felt backs make for a better choice than luxury brand or style names, especially when fitting out a child’s bedroom, as they will be less fussy about what you choose. Recycled materials can also be a good choice as they are usually water-resistant and are highly durable.
Materials to Avoid
As a general rule, avoid any materials with loops, as these tend to snag and unravel easily, which is a high possibility in a well-used area such as a child’s bedroom.
Velvet, saxony or plush materials may seem very warm and aesthetically pleasing, but they are not a good choice to have in a child’s room. They are hard to keep clean and will not last long. Similarly, if you like the idea of wool, then think again. It may well be natural, but is not suitable for high-traffic areas, as it wears out easily. Wool also tends to be quite expensive, so reserve this as a luxury for your own bedroom.
Polyester and olefin materials are not too costly, but they do not last long and do not resist oils, so if you are looking for a carpet that will last, then avoid these materials. Alternatively, they may be a good option if you do intend to replace your flooring as your child grows.
Anti-Allergens
If your child suffers from allergies, then it will be important to choose a fabric that has the best anti-allergen properties, especially since they will be spending a lot of time in the room. The fact is that allergens that enter a room will settle on the floor, so it is vital to choose a material that does not allow these allergens to stick to them. Synthetic blends that are tightly woven, such as nylon, are constructed of fibres that repel allergens, creating an environment where they have nothing to live off or attach to. On the other hand, wool and shag pile provide a great breeding ground for mould and allergens. Avoid long-pile fabrics if your child suffers from allergies.
Consider materials that have a low VOC (volatile organic compound) label, as these have limited exposure to chemicals that may affect air quality and cause allergic reactions.
Whatever fabric you do choose, always clean it regularly to avoid dirt build-up, and remove stains or marks instantly to keep it in the best condition.
Author: Sarah Middleton – Managing Director at CMS Downs
