Carpet and Allergies

Is a connection between carpet and allergies? The truth is that while there can be under some circumstances (very dirty), it is not always the case. This misconception is why so many people prefer hardwood flooring. However, if you love the look, comfort, and warmth offered by carpeting, you also need to understand the importance of regular cleaning to keep allergens to a minimum. There is also some evidence that certain types of carpet do not contribute to allergies. Rather, it is uncleaned carpet that can be problematic.

Dirt and Particles

Think of it this way - every time you or a pet walk into the house and onto the carpeting, you bring dirt with you. In addition, any pet dander, insects, microorganisms, and other particles from the outside end up inside and eventually, in the air you breathe. The good news is that if your carpet is vacuumed on a regular basis and cleaned by a professional or steam cleaned with a quality machine, allergy problems can be eliminated or greatly reduced.

Quality Vacuum Cleaner

For starters, you might consider purchasing a quality vacuum cleaner. The best kind is one that comes with a HEPA filter and one certified to remove the highest percentage of allergens possible. Then, using this vacuum two to three times each week will start to reduce any allergen and carpet problems that you might be experiencing. When vacuuming, be sure to clean around the baseboards, under furniture, and in corners where allergens are known to hide.

Breathing Problems

The interesting thing is that while people with asthma, allergies, and various respiratory problems swear that carpet makes things worse, no scientific study has ever been able to show an increase in breathing problems and carpeting. In fact, a number of studies actually show the very opposite to be true. In either case, if you feel your allergies or asthma is worse, then a good vacuum cleaner will do wonders regardless.

Carpets and Breathing

Remember, if you purchase high quality carpeting and keep it clean, you may actually find that issues relating to asthma and/or allergies are improved. Several European studies were conducted with more than 20,000 people and found symptoms decreased while breathing improved. In fact, one particular study was conducted at a school with more than 4,500 students. The outcome was that because there were fewer problems with respiratory problems and allergies, the number of days missed from school went down significantly.

Clean Carpets

Again, the chance of carpet being the problem is unlikely and even if it becomes dirty, which it will, vacuuming on a regular basis while using slow and repetitive motions will make a huge difference. Always start by dusting first so any dust particles are also vacuumed up. Then, when you do shampoo, make sure the products you use are certified, which will keep your carpeting looking great, help it to last longer, and remove any deep-seeded dirt.