Carpets add a touch of luxury, warmth, and comfort to any Gainesville home. But did you know they could also contribute to health problems? Carpets can be a breeding ground for allergens, dust mites, and mould, which could negatively impact your health. In this post, we look at the health issues caused by particles in carpets and discuss valid and effective ways to protect your health.
Health Issues Caused by Particles in Carpets
1. Allergies and Asthma
Carpets can trap allergens like pet dander, pollen, and dust mites, triggering allergic reactions and worsening asthma symptoms. These allergens can be released into the air when you walk on the carpet or vacuum, leading to sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing.
Prolonged exposure to allergens can also increase the risk of developing asthma, especially in young children.
2. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Carpets, carpet padding, and adhesives can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can evaporate into the air and cause various health issues, including headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. Worse, some VOCs are also known carcinogens.
3. Respiratory Issues
Bacteria, viruses, and mould can thrive in damp carpets, leading to respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Mould spores can also cause allergic reactions and aggravate asthma symptoms.
Additionally, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by some carpet materials and adhesives can irritate the respiratory system and cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
4. Skin Irritation
Particles in carpets can also cause skin irritations, such as rashes, itching, and eczema. This can be particularly problematic for children who spend more time playing on the floor and for individuals with sensitive skin. Walking barefoot on dirty carpets can also lead to fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
How to Protect Your Health
1. Regular Vacuuming
Does carpet cleaning at least once a week using a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which can effectively remove allergens, dust mites, and other particles? Also, be sure to vacuum high-traffic areas and under furniture, as these spots can accumulate more dirt and allergens.
2. Consider Area Rugs and Runners
Instead of wall-to-wall carpeting, consider using area rugs and runners that can be easily removed and cleaned. This allows for more frequent washing and can reduce the buildup of allergens and particles.
3. Use a Dehumidifier and Air Purifier
Maintaining a humidity level between 30% and 50% can help prevent mould growth in your carpets. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements, and consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce airborne allergens and improve indoor air quality.
4. Remove Shoes Indoors
Shoes can bring in dirt, pollen, and other outdoor contaminants. Implement a no-shoes policy indoors and use doormats to reduce the amount of dirt and allergens tracked into your home.
5. Replace Old Carpets
If your carpets are old, worn, or heavily stained, consider replacing them with new, low-pile options or area rugs over new hardwood flooring. Carpets are a great option to keep allergens out of the airways of a home, but it is still essential to keep them well-maintained to prevent creating a bigger problem.
6. Choose Low-VOC Carpets and Materials
When purchasing new carpets, opt for low-VOC materials and adhesives that have been independently tested and certified to minimize the release of harmful chemicals.
Look for carpets with the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus certification or other third-party certifications that ensure low VOC levels. Also, air out new carpets for a few days before installation to reduce the initial VOC emissions.
7. Professional Carpet Cleaning
Have your carpets professionally deep cleaned every 12 to 18 months. Hot water extraction, also known as steam cleaning, is the most effective method to remove deep-seated dirt, allergens, and bacteria from your carpets. You can also rent carpet cleaners and do it yourself, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully
Conclusion
Carpets can significantly impact your health by harbouring allergens, mould, and bacteria. However, with regular maintenance and some preventive measures, you can enjoy the comfort and warmth of carpets without compromising your health.
Vacuum regularly, hire a carpet cleaning company for deep cleaning, control humidity levels, and opt for low-VOC materials to protect your health and maintain a clean and healthy living environment.
Maintain the cleanliness of your carpets with the assistance of Dreyer’s Carpet Care. As a carpet cleaning company catering to Gainesville Alachua, Newberry, High Springs and surrounding areas, we can manage all carpet care aspects, from urgent situations to routine upkeep.
Our IICRC-certified experts can clean, safeguard, and restore various flooring types in residential and commercial spaces. Request a quote today!
