Carpet has not always been thought of as an allergy-friendly flooring option for homeowners. While there tends to be conflicting information and numerous studies to either support or debunk that idea, at Bigelow Flooring, we believe that carpet can be a good flooring option for allergy-sufferers, as long as you know what to look for. Here are some important factors to consider before installing carpet in your home:
Advancements in Carpet Technology
First, it’s important to note that carpet has a bad reputation for a reason. Older carpets and carpet that was sold 20 years ago has not always been allergy-friendly. Allergy sufferers and people with asthma have been advised in the past to remove carpet to improve their symptoms. However, with advancements in carpet technology, it’s now possible for allergy-sufferers to install carpet in their homes.
VOC Emissions
If you have asthma or allergies, you may be more sensitive to exposure from volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be found in carpet. However, studies have shown that the amount of VOCs that are given off by a newly-installed carpet pose a low risk and don’t last as long as the VOCs emitted by other consumer products.
Carpet Fibres Can Trap Allergens
Some carpets can actually trap allergens, keeping them from filling the air in your home. Many modern carpets are great for trapping allergens, including carpets made from natural fibres or synthetic fibres. However, if you want the best carpet for allergies, wool is king — Godfrey Hirst’s wool carpet in particular shouldn’t cause problems for allergy sufferers.
Keep Your Carpets Clean
The key to preventing allergies, whether you have carpet or not, is to keep your home as clean as possible. You should maintain a regular cleaning schedule for your floors, from hardwood to ceramic tile to carpet. Keeping any kind of flooring clean and dry, including carpet, will help to prevent mould growth.
Everyone is different, and if you have asthma or severe allergies, it’s important to consult your family doctor or allergist before you install anything in your home.
For all of your flooring needs, and to find the best flooring option for your home, visit the team at Bigelow Flooring.
