Which type of carpet is the least absorbent?

Olefin, also known as polypropylene, is the least absorbent type of carpet among the options listed. This property is due to its molecular structure, which does not allow water to soak into the fibers easily. Instead, when exposed to moisture, olefin tends to repel water rather than absorb it. This characteristic makes olefin carpets highly resistant to staining and excellent for areas prone to spills or high humidity, as they dry quickly and maintain their appearance.

In contrast, nylon is a synthetic fiber that, while strong and durable, has a higher absorbency compared to olefin, meaning it can take in more moisture. Cotton and wool are natural fibers with even greater absorbency; they can hold significant amounts of water, which is beneficial for softness but makes them more prone to staining and mold if not dried properly.