Installing a carpet might seem simple — at least when you have a flat surface to work with! However, thanks to their 3-D design, staircases call for some extra planning. We’re about to answer all of your design FAQs, including what type of carpet is best for stairs, and how to choose the right carpet for your staircase. We’ll also cover options that work well with high-traffic stairs, which call for carpeting that is able to resist matting and flattening. 

No matter what type of staircase (or staircases) you’ll be carpeting, this easy-to-follow guide will steer you in the right direction. If you’re ready to learn the basics, let’s jump in and get started!

What's the Best Carpet for Stairs?

Thanks to decades of technological innovation, modern carpets are constructed from sturdier, more resilient, and easier-to-clean fibers than were available to past generations of homeowners. Most carpets are suitable for everyday staircase use.  However, we do recommend that you refer to the design of carpet when making a selection.

How to Choose Carpet for Stairs

When choosing a carpet for your staircase, it’s important to look for textures and materials that will repel soiling and resist flattening.  Also, consider warranty options regarding staircases. Here are a few popular options to consider. 

• Low-pile A low pile carpet refers to the height of carpet fibers. Carpet fibers can be twisted together to create a cut pile or woven in a loop pattern. A low pile carpet is recommended due to how the carpet is laid on a dimensional surface.  A high-pile carpet will not fold over the curve of a stair the same as a dense, low pile carpet. Our brand, Rival by Resista, has an excellent selection of trending designs that are backed by our 5 Star warranty which includes staircases.     

• Carpet Fiber.  With the growth of technology advancement in carpet fibers, a strong selection of carpet can be used for a staircase installation.  This can range from Polyester to Nylon to even natural fibers including wool.  

To learn more about carpet pile, carpet loops, carpet blends, and other style choices, check out our comprehensive guide to carpet types.

Find the Best Carpet for Stairs at a Flooring America Retailer near You

Whether you are in search of a trendy, eye-catching pattern or you’re looking for something simple and functional for everyday use, Flooring America has your carpet needs (and your staircase) covered. 

With a huge assortment of wool carpets, nylon carpets, low-pile carpets, cut-loop carpets, stain-resistant carpets, soil-resistant carpets, and other carpet styles ideal for high-traffic areas, we carry all of today’s most popular brands for every budget and taste. Contact us online to learn more, or visit one of our 500+ locations to try out our luxurious carpeting for yourself!

Visualize Your Flooring Dreams

Want a preview of how new floors will look in your home? Try our room visualizer, My Floor Style. Upload a photo of your room, select your style preferences, and get a virtual look at each different flooring style. With My Floor Style, there are no surprises. Only beautiful new floors.