Carpet, Asthma and Allergies. Some blame carpet for asthma and allergies. What is the truth? Myth or reality?
Dust is everywhere. It invades our homes. The Vacuum company Dyson now employs lasers in the battle to eliminate dust from our homes. Airborne dust is more noticeable with hard flooring and no carpets. Your carpet acts as a natural filter for your home. Dust and allergens settle in the carpet. Many studies have clearly shown there is no link between carpet and asthma. In fact, well-maintained carpet reduces airborne dust, allergens and other pollutants.
Carpet and Asthma Studies
Airmid Healthgroup, whose mission is to prevent ill health caused by exposure to indoor air pollutants, have assembled a unique multidisciplinary team of clinicians and scientists specializing in microbiology, allergy and immunology. Operating from state-of-the-art testing facilities, we focus on the relationship between airborne and surface biological pollutants (viruses, bacteria, mould, allergens) and the spread of ill health in the indoor environment.
The studies show that effectively cleaned carpets can trap allergens and other particles, resulting in fewer airborne particles. This study clearly shows that the link between carpet and asthma is a myth. Regularly cleaned carpet is a good choice for families impacted by asthma and allergies.
Many other studies have come to the same conclusion. Toxicologist Dr. Mitchell W. Sauerhoff, Ph.D., published a comprehensive study entitled: Carpet, Asthma and Allergy – Myth or Reality? If you don’t feel like reading all 15 pages, then I will share with you the ending: “In conclusion, a weight of evidence approach to evaluating existing medical and scientific studies is quite clear. Carpet and asthma do not cause asthma. VOC emissions from new carpet do not trigger asthma or allergies. Carpet does not increase the incidence or severity of asthma or allergies in children and adults. From the standpoint of asthma and allergies, well-maintained carpet is safe.”
The reality is, the link between carpet and asthma is a myth. Carpet acts as a natural filter. That is why this study refers to “a well-maintained carpet”. As carpets trap dust and airborne contaminants, they need to be maintained by good vacuuming and proper cleaning.
How Should Asthma and Allergy Sufferers Maintain Their Carpets?
While studies show that carpet and asthma is a myth, sufferers of asthma and allergies need to pay more than the usual attention to maintaining their carpet. Regular vacuuming with HEPA filtration is key. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuums differ from conventional vacuums. They contain filters that are capable of trapping extremely small, micron-sized particles. A true HEPA filter can trap 99.97 percent of all airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns. Regular vacuuming is the best way to reduce allergens in your home. If you have carpet and asthma, use a vacuum with HEPA Filtration.
When it’s time for professional carpet cleaning, select a boutique carpet cleaner specializing in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). If you are searching for safe and natural carpet cleaning in Victoria, BC, let’s talk. Cleaning products should be hypoallergenic and create no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Sadly, most carpet cleaners do not even have a vacuum in their van! Please also check out our article Indoor Air Quality and Carpet Cleaning.
