Carpet has gained a negative reputation over the past decade, with many assuming it worsens allergy and asthma symptoms. However, research has shown that these assumptions are largely false. In fact, carpet can benefit everyone from allergy sufferers to penny pinchers to the elderly.
Carpet is a safe flooring option that reduces slips and softens falls, making it ideal for the elderly and very young. Additionally, carpet absorbs noise, improving a home’s acoustics. It also provides thermal resistance, retaining warmth longer and reducing heating bills, which is ideal for those who want to save money.
Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that there is no correlation between carpet and allergy and asthma attacks. Instead, carpet acts like a filter, trapping allergens and keeping them out of the air that you and your family breathe. These trapped allergens, such as pollen, pet dander, and dust, can be easily removed through proper cleaning techniques.
To maintain your carpet’s cleanliness, consider vacuuming high-traffic or pet areas daily, medium-traffic areas twice a week, and light-traffic areas weekly. Use a CRI-certified vacuum to avoid damaging your carpet. Also, limit dirt intrusion by putting out an entrance mat for people to wipe their feet and requiring everyone to take off their shoes. Once a year, have your carpet deep cleaned by a professional using hot water extraction.
If you suffer from allergies, remember to clean your upholstered furniture, draperies, and blinds regularly as well, as they can also harbor microscopic allergens.
Carpet provides many benefits for different people, including those with allergies. Before you spend money on taking out your home’s carpet, consider the reasons why you chose it in the first place and take the proper steps to clean it so it can complement your home for many years to come.