Introduction
Carpet is a popular flooring choice for homes offering a luxurious feel underfoot, sound insulation, and added warmth. However, carpet fibres can trap allergens, volatile organic compounds and mould spores, which can negatively affect your health. Thankfully for every problem, there is a solution and this article aims to educate you on the potential health risks associated with carpets and what you can do to minimise these affecting you.
Health Risk 1. Allergens
Dust mites, pet dander, and pollen are all considered allergens. Allergens usually provoke an allergic reaction in those sensitive to them. Unfortunately, carpet fibres have a tendency to trap these allergens in your living space. This may cause individuals with allergies or respiratory problems to suffer. Thankfully, the solution to this problem is simple: vacuum regularly with a high-efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter. The HEPA filter vacuum will remove most of the allergens from your carpet’s fibres allowing you to breathe easy in your space.
Health Risk 2. Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that vaporise into the air at room temperature. These chemicals are found within the carpet as part of the manufacturing process. For example, adhesives, dyes and flame retardants add VOCs to the carpet product. Prolonged exposure to VOCs can cause anything from headaches all the way to cancer in people. The solution to this problem is to buy VOC-low or VOC-free carpets. If you have already installed a VOC carpet, then you can mitigate these negative effects by ensuring adequate ventilation in your room.
Health Risk 3. Mould and Mildew
In a moist environment, mould and mildew can develop on carpet fibres. Not only can this damage the carpet, but it can damage the lungs of the people living in that space. Some solutions to the problem of mould and mildew are preventative, such as quickly cleaning liquid spillages and ensuring optimum humidity levels in your space (perhaps by using a dehumidifier). Some solutions are curative, such as buying moisture-resistant carpet and underlay in the first place.
Health Risk 4. Perfluorocarbons
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are another type of chemical found in carpets. PFCs have been known to affect hormone levels and cause developmental issues. It is important to be aware of this if you have young children who play on the carpet often. The solution to this problem is to buy carpets that are labelled “eco-friendly” or certified as “low-chemical” carpets.
How to Keep Your Carpets Healthy
- Regular Vacuuming: A weekly vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum will help keep your carpet free of irritating allergens.
- Deep Clean: An annual deep clean will help remove those trickier allergens and also destroy any mould or mildew spores.
- Choose Wisely: Where possible choose VOC-free and eco-friendly carpets to minimise the amount of chemicals that you bring into your living space.
- Sunlight: Ensure that adequate sunlight can reach your carpet. This will help kill mould and bacteria.
- Ventilation: Ensure that adequate airflow can reach your carpet. Open windows regularly and consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to clean your indoor air.
- Humidity: Ensure proper humidity levels are maintained in your home environment. This can be achieved through opening and closing windows or by using humidifiers and dehumidifiers as necessary.
- Shoes Off: Implement a “no shoe” policy in your home to ensure unwanted dirt does not enter your carpet fibres.
Conclusion
Carpets are a great addition to your home and can provide comfort, warmth and style. However, be aware that some carpets contain more chemical than others, so always try to buy the most natural product you can. Also, implement a few good carpet hygiene habits to ensure that your carpets are a healthy addition to your living space, such as weekly vacuuming and an annual deep clean. We hope you enjoy many healthy, happy years with your carpet!
