How Your Carpet May Be Affecting Your Health
The cooler months have arrived, which means the amount of time spent indoors can increase up to 90% for some people. And with the change in seasons always seeming to aggravate the sinuses and initiate allergy flare-ups, it’s time to start considering what carpet cleaning techniques and carpet cleaning services you can use to protect your family this season.
This is especially important when windows and doors are kept closed to prevent warm air from escaping, which translates to a decline in air circulation. This means that indoor air pollutants like smoke, pet dander, and mold are more likely to cause health problems due to lack of circulation—a problem the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes as one of the top 5 urgent environmental risks to public health. Since carpet and rug fibers act as a magnet to allergens like dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and other potentially aggravating proteins, here we will consider what you can do to prevent such health issues by insuring the use of the most effect carpet cleaning practices.
Stick to Carpet
First of all, many people believe that switching from carpet to hard floors will alleviate allergy symptoms. Unfortunately it’s not that simple. In fact, studies show that carpet actually acts as a filter by locking in the allergens and prevents them from re-entering the breathing space. Allergens that land on hard flooring are more susceptible to being stirred up into the breathing space, thus aggravating the sinuses and provoking allergic reactions. Instead, a well-maintained carpet kept clean and dry with the most effective carpet cleaning services can actually improve air quality and the health of those suffering from allergies or asthma.
Vacuum Regularly
This will help keep allergens to a minimum. When vacuuming, it is important that you give your vacuum cleaner enough time to work, so move slowly. Going over high traffic areas multiple times is also a good idea. But be sure to empty the vacuum’s canister or dispose of its collection bag away from your home or work place, otherwise you may create an allergen dust cloud by dropping it in the kitchen trash can, for example.
Get Rid of all Moisture
Once your carpet gets wet, it’s almost impossible to get it completely dry, as the pad has likely absorbed some of the moisture. This creates an environment that encourages the growth of unhealthy bacteria, mold, and allergen growth that can negatively affect your health. So with that in mind, always take care of spills as soon as possible, and just say no to carpet cleaning services that soak your carpet. Instead, opt for dry carpet cleaning that cleans your carpet without ever soaking it. This is especially important in geographical areas with high humidity and little ventilation.
So with the many benefits of having a carpeted living and work space, understand that carpet is also the best flooring option for those who suffer from asthma or allergens. As long as you vacuum regularly, keep your carpet dry, and utilize the most effective carpet cleaning services, your carpet will not only look great but will improve the quality of air your family breathes.