Whether textured carpet is "better" depends on your specific needs, but it does have several advantages that make it a popular choice for many situations. Here are some key benefits and considerations:

Advantages of Textured Carpet:

  1. Hides Footprints and Vacuum Marks:

    • Textured carpets, such as frieze or cut and loop, have a surface that helps to hide footprints and vacuum cleaner marks, making them great for high-traffic areas like living rooms, hallways, or stairs.

  2. Durability:

    • Textured carpets tend to be more durable than plush or velvet carpets because of their varied fiber heights and twists. They are less prone to showing wear and tear over time, making them ideal for homes with kids or pets.

  3. Stain Resistance:

    • The texture of the carpet can help disguise dirt and stains. Carpets like Berber and cut and loop are particularly good at masking dirt, which can be helpful in busy households.

  4. Versatile Aesthetic:

    • Textured carpets come in a wide range of styles, from modern geometric patterns to more subtle textures. This makes them versatile and capable of fitting in with many different decor styles, from traditional to contemporary.

  5. Comfort and Softness:

    • While not as luxuriously soft as plush carpets, many textured options like frieze still offer a comfortable, soft feel underfoot without being too formal. They're cozy for living spaces and bedrooms, offering a good balance of comfort and functionality.

  6. Less Maintenance:

    • Textured carpets generally require less maintenance in terms of showing wear, stains, or marks. Their irregular surface helps mask imperfections, so they don’t need to be vacuumed as frequently as smoother carpets.

Drawbacks of Textured Carpet:

  1. Less Luxurious Look:

    • If you're looking for a sleek, formal look, textured carpets might not be the best option. Plush or velvet carpets offer a more uniform appearance that’s typically associated with luxury and high-end spaces.

  2. Potential Snagging (for Looped Carpets):

    • Carpets with looped fibers, like Berber, can sometimes snag if pets or sharp objects get caught in them. This can lead to pulls in the carpet over time, although newer materials are more resistant to this.

  3. Not as Soft as Plush:

    • While textured carpets like frieze and cut and loop are comfortable, they won't offer the same ultra-soft feel as a plush or Saxony carpet. This might be a consideration if you're looking for maximum softness underfoot.

Best Uses for Textured Carpet:

  • High-traffic areas: Textured carpets like Berber or cut and loop are great for high-traffic areas where durability and practicality are key.
  • Family homes with kids or pets: Textured carpets hide dirt, stains, and wear, making them a great choice for active households.
  • Modern, casual interiors: The informal, relaxed look of many textured carpets, especially frieze, complements modern or casual decor styles.

Textured carpet can be "better" if you're prioritizing durability, easy maintenance, and hiding marks in high-traffic areas. However, if you prefer a smooth, luxurious look and feel, plush or velvet carpets may be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs for comfort, style, and durability.