For many, allergies are an unpleasant part of changing seasons. But, if you blame your allergies on your carpet, you may be assigning fault to the wrong place.
A number of people are under the misconception that removing their carpet will reduce their allergy symptoms. However, ripping up your current carpet will not decrease the number of airborne allergens that make you sniff. In fact, carpet removal can increase those allergens floating through the air, as other surfaces do not hold them in the same way your carpet does. Consider how much dust gathers in your carpets. If that dust were sitting on a hardwood floor, it would be stirred up every time someone walks, skids, shuffles or runs on the floor.
Regular vacuuming and professional carpet cleaning can keep your allergies at bay. When you vacuum, make sure your machine is made well. If there are leaks, allergens can easily escape and settle back in your carpet and rugs; also, look for a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Try to vacuum your home one to two times a week. If you have severe allergies, consider wearing a mask or asking someone else to complete the chore.
Get a professional carpet cleaning at least every six months. Let the carpet dry completely before you walk on it, otherwise mold and mites can become imbedded again. After the carpet dries, clean up spills quickly to prevent mold growth. If you are not noticing any relief from allergies, ask guests to remove their shoes before entering your home.
Another common allergy question comes from people who are in the market for a new carpet and have a natural latex allergy. The backing on new carpets is synthetic latex, not natural. Synthetic latex, or styrene butadiene latex, is made from different compounds than natural. In fact, latex allergies are most commonly caused by protein enzymes found in natural latex. When looking for a carpet, try to find one with a short, tight weave, as they are a less inviting place for dust mites and other allergens to live.
If you are very sensitive to chemicals and are still concerned about having a reaction when a new carpet is installed, there are several things you can do. Begin by asking the retailer to unroll the carpet in a well-ventilated area before it is brought into your home. Anyone with severe sensitivities should leave the house during and directly after the carpet installation. Once the crews have left your home, increase ventilation in the room with the new carpet – open windows and doors and set up fans to exchange indoor air with fresh air.
Should you choose against wall-to-wall carpeting, or are renting and unable to install it, consider investing in area rugs. The smaller, machine-washable rugs can be cleaned with soap and hot water to remove dust mites and other allergens.
Remember, all your efforts to remove allergens from your home will be thwarted if you live with a smoker. Cigarette smoke contains a number of chemicals and irritants which will aggravate anyone who is sensitive or has allergies.
See the rest here: Caring For Your Carpet and Your Allergies
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