Hardwood stairs, tile stairs, and other hard surface steps can be dangerous for elderly people or small children who are more prone to falling. Kids often run around in socks, and hard stairs can be slippery underfoot. Carpeting provides more traction and stability when climbing a staircase. Staircase carpet muffles the sound of footsteps traveling up and down all day. It can also make an old or squeaky staircase’s sounds less noticeable. The greatest benefit to carpeting stairs may be visual. Many people simply prefer the look of a beautifully carpeted staircase.