Carpet Shading and "Pile Reversal" Explained

You've just had a beautiful deep pile carpet fitted. A few weeks later, you notice patches that look lighter or darker, or like water has been spilled on them. You brush it, but it doesn't go away. This is likely Shading or Pile Reversal.

What is it? It happens when the carpet pile in certain areas changes direction permanently. Because the side of the yarn reflects light differently to the tip, it looks like a different color. It is like stroking velvet against the grain.

Is it a fault? No. It is an inherent characteristic of cut-pile carpets (especially Saxonies and plush Velvets). Manufacturers classify it as an optical effect, not a manufacturing defect.

Can I fix it? Sadly, not usually. Vacuuming might change it temporarily, but the pile will revert to its new orientation. It is often caused by local airflow patterns or magnetic fields—it's a bit of a mystery!

How to avoid it: If you hate this look, choose a Loop Pile carpet. The loops cannot change direction, so the color stays consistent.