You’ve just installed a beautiful new carpet, but within days, you notice fibers coming loose and collecting around the room. Is your carpet already falling apart? Not necessarily! Carpet shedding is a common issue, especially with new carpets, and in most cases, it’s completely normal. While it can be a bit annoying, shedding typically doesn’t last forever. Let’s break down why carpets shed, how long it usually lasts, and what you can do to manage it without losing your cool.
Why does carpet shed?
Carpet shedding happens because of the way carpets are made. Most carpets, especially those made from wool or synthetic fibers like polyester, are constructed by twisting and cutting the fibers to form the pile. During manufacturing, some loose fibers don’t get fully secured into the backing. Once the carpet is installed and used, these loose fibers start to come free, causing shedding.
This is especially common with cut-pile carpets like Saxony or plush styles, where the fibers are sheared. It’s completely natural for your carpet to shed initially, so don’t panic—it’s not a sign of poor quality.
How long does shedding last?
The good news is that shedding is usually temporary. For most carpets, shedding can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. It all depends on the type of carpet, the fiber, and how often it’s used. Over time, as the loose fibers are released, the shedding will taper off, and your carpet will settle into its final, fuzz-free form.
Vacuum regularly to control shedding
One of the best ways to manage carpet shedding is regular vacuuming. Vacuuming helps to collect and remove loose fibers before they spread throughout the room. For new carpets, it’s recommended to vacuum two to three times a week for the first month or so. However, make sure you’re using a vacuum with the right settings—a vacuum with a beater bar can be too harsh on certain carpet types, especially during the shedding phase.
Reduce foot traffic
During the early stages of shedding, try to limit foot traffic on the carpet as much as possible. The more you walk on it, the more fibers will come loose. This doesn’t mean you have to avoid the room completely, but minimizing heavy use will help reduce shedding.
When to worry about shedding
While shedding is normal for most carpets, excessive or long-term shedding could indicate an issue with the carpet’s construction. If you notice that your carpet is still shedding heavily after several months or looks visibly worn down, it’s a good idea to contact the manufacturer or installer to ensure everything is as it should be.
Contact our carpet store today
By understanding that shedding is a normal part of the carpet’s settling process, and following a few simple steps, you can easily manage it and enjoy the beauty of your new carpet without worry.
Our carpet store in Cedar Grove, WI, serves Cedar Grove, Mequon, Port Washington, Saukville, Oostburg, and more. Call Claerbout Furniture & Flooring today!
