Keeping your carpets clean is an important issue for several reasons. Our home and office carpets suffer a lot of wear and tear, especially if you own pets or have kids. Carpets can get damaged with stains, frequent traffic lanes, discoloring, and more, all of which can lead to the need to replace them.
A recent study has shown that carpeted homes are problematic for the indoor environment. The use of carpets has been linked to increased levels of indoor dust, allergens, and microorganisms and is associated with an increased risk of a number of health issues such as asthma, mild cognitive effects, and irritative symptoms. Also, carpets that don't get a regular professional cleaning can get in such a bad shape that they can void the manufacturer warranty.
Here are a couple of facts about carpets and why they can be unhealthy for you:
- Mold
One of the main problems with carpet is that it soaks up liquid faster than you can blot it dry. This means that spilled food or drinks tend to stick deep into the carpet fibers and pad, where they become a breeding ground for mold. Mold leads to permanent stains and odor, and its spores are a common cause of indoor allergies. - Skin Flakes
On average, humans shed 1.5 million skin flakes daily, and those flakes end up on the floor, where they wedge themselves between carpet fibers. These flakes then become food for dust mites, and the waste from dust mites is also one of the common causes of indoor allergies. - Pollen
Pollen is not a seasonal problem, it can be a year-round issue in many areas, and it can easily enter your home and get stuck in the carpet. Pollen is one of the most common causes of hay fever and asthma flare-ups. - Kitty Litter
If you own a cat, then you probably know about the problem of a tracked litter. No matter how much you try to keep it under control, some litter will get transferred from your cat's paws onto the carpet, where it will wedge between the fibers, spreading bacteria, odor, and grit. - Germs
Your carpet is a breeding farm for germs and bacteria. Some of these germs are even antibiotic-resistant. Some are really hard to get rid of and can cause such health problems as respiratory illness, allergic reactions, digestive issues, and skin infections.
How Can You Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones?
Instead of carpets, opt for hard-surfaced flooring and rugs that you can easily pick up and clean outside. Or you can vacuum more frequently with a HEPA filter and have your carpets deep cleaned once a year. Avoid putting carpet in the kitchen, entryway, and bathroom because these rooms are often damp, which is a perfect environment for mold. Use a mat outside your entryway to limit dirt entering the home.
Hardwood floor is a healthier option since it doesn't hold debris that can cause the build-up of bacteria, and it's easy to clean, removing any problems with dirt or grit. It also lasts longer than carpets and can be refinished, not to mention that a hardwood floor never goes out of style.
Would you like to talk with us about hardwood floors? We’re here to help. Feel free to contact us, or you can come to visit our showroom.
