When homeowners think about sustainable flooring options, hardwood or more niche materials like cork or bamboo are often the first to come to mind. Carpet, on the other hand, has long carried the reputation of being less eco-friendly. However, you might be surprised to learn that the carpet industry has evolved dramatically in recent years. Today, many carpet manufacturers are leading the way with innovative production methods, recycled materials, and greener business practices that are making carpet a far more sustainable option than ever before.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes sustainable carpet possible, and which carpet brands are paving the way toward a cleaner, greener future.
What Makes Carpet Sustainable?
Carpet “sustainability” depends on several factors from the materials used, to how the product is manufactured, transported, and eventually disposed of once its utility has been exhausted. While traditional carpets in the mid to late-20th century were usually made from synthetic fibers with petroleum-based backings, many modern carpets prioritize renewable, recycled, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials, all of which contribute to overall product sustainability. Making sure your carpet is sustainable is important, whether you are carpeting every room in your home, creating a custom area rug for your dining room, or adding carpeting to your stairs.
Here are just a few ways that manufacturers in the carpet industry are improving sustainability:
1. Recycled & Renewable Materials
The vast majority of carpets are made using some synthetic fibers; however, more sustainable carpets are often made using recycled nylon or polyester made from plastic bottles, old fishing nets, or reclaimed carpet fibers. Some other, specifically natural fiber carpets are made with renewable materials such as wool, sisal, or jute. These alternatives reduce reliance on virgin or raw materials and help divert waste from landfills.
2. Improved Manufacturing Processes
Modern carpet manufacturers have implemented cleaner production methods that reduce energy use, water consumption, and carbon emissions. Many also prioritize “closed-loop” recycling systems, where old carpets are reclaimed to create new ones.
3. Healthier Indoor Air Quality
Sustainable carpets are designed to be healthier for your home than cheaply made options. Many meet or exceed low-VOC certifications, which means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, improving overall indoor air quality.
4. Longevity and Recyclability
Finally, there are long-term considerations that determine a product’s overall sustainability. A more durable carpet will last longer, meaning less frequent replacement and less waste over time. Some carpets can also be fully recycled at the end of their lifespan, contributing to a circular economy model within the flooring industry.
Sustainable Carpet Manufacturers
At Floor Concepts, we’re proud to carry several leading sustainable carpet brands that are redefining what eco-friendly floor solutions looks like. Each of these manufacturers combines performance, style, and sustainability in unique ways.
Shaw Floors
Shaw is one of the largest and most well-known sustainable carpet manufacturers in the U.S. The company’s commitment to circularity includes recycling old carpets into new products through its re[TURN]® reclamation program. Also, all Shaw carpet products are Green Label Plus® certified, which means they pass strict standards for low VOC emissions for carpet, adhesive and cushion products. Finally, Shaw also offers many Cradle to Cradle Certified® carpet options, another credential that ensures they meet high standards for material health, product circularity, renewable energy use, and social fairness.
Anderson Tuftex
As a division of Shaw, Anderson Tuftex also emphasizes the quality craftsmanship and sustainable design espoused by its parent company. Their carpets often use responsibly sourced materials and are made with longevity in mind—reducing waste by offering flooring that’s built to last. Many of their products are also Green Label Plus® certified for low VOC emissions.
DreamWeaver
DreamWeaver Carpets, owned by Engineered Floors, focuses on environmentally responsible production with its PureColor® fiber system. This process requires 32% less energy, 87% less water, and 42% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional carpet dyeing methods. The color is built into the fiber itself, which eliminates the need for chemical dyes and significantly reduces waste.
Stanton Carpet
Stanton Carpet combines luxury style with a range of sustainable, natural fiber collections made from wool and other renewable materials. The company also focuses on durability and design, helping customers invest in carpets that remain beautiful and functional for years.
Sustainable Rug Brands
The same eco-friendly principles that carpet manufacturers are using to make their products and processes more sustainable apply to many rug brands as well, with some rug brands standing out.
Loloi Rugs
The popular Loloi Rugs brand takes sustainability to a level that extends beyond its product. Not only are many of their rug products created from recycled plastics, or natural materials like wool or jute, Loloi also partners with GoodWeave, a non-profit organization that audits their factories in India to ensure that their manufacturing processes are being carried out ethically, and with full transparency. Loloi also participates in corporate social responsibility by partnering with organizations in India to plant trees and propel other initiatives that benefit people there.
Oriental Weavers
Cairo-based rug manufacturer Oriental Weavers considers environmental protection to be a main pillar of its business, working to keep its production, energy consumption, and waste management processes efficient and responsible in an effort to reduce its carbon footprint. They have also received awards for their commitment to green initiatives, and many of their products are constructed with materials like recycled PET yarn and cotton.
The Bottom Line: Carpet Can Be Sustainable
So, is carpet sustainable? The answer is increasingly yes, especially when you choose brands that focus on recycled or natural construction, eco-friendly manufacturing, and healthier home environments. Sustainable carpet flooring offers comfort, beauty, and performance without sacrificing environmental responsibility.
At Floor Concepts, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of sustainable carpet and area rug options from trusted brands like Dreamweaver, Shaw, and Loloi. Whether you’re updating a single room or your entire home, our team can help you find an eco-friendly flooring or carpet solution that fits your lifestyle and values.
Visit our showrooms in Pittsburgh and Wexford, PA, or explore our selection online to learn more about our sustainable flooring options. Contact us or stop by our showroom to explore our sustainable carpet and flooring products in person. You can also schedule a free in-home measurement now to get started on a carpet renovation project.
