For those with asthma and other respiratory concerns, controlling allergens within the home is an important task. In the past, recommendations have been made for patients to avoid using carpet in the home, but studies have begun to question whether this is actually beneficial advice.
A common misconception revolves around the idea that allergens such as pollen, dirt, and dust can build up within the carpet fibers, lingering in the air and the home. However, more recent research shows that carpet actually helps decrease respiratory irritants from moving freely in the air. In homes with wood, tile, concrete, or other hard surfaces for floors, allergens enter the home and are consistently stirred up in the air. With carpet, these particles are collected in the fibers, where they are then removed through regular vacuuming.
For those with concerns about respiratory issues, carpet can be a great option as long as adequate vacuuming is performed. For the best results, be sure to use a vacuum with an HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, as these are highly effective at removing problematic particles from the air and carpet. Vacuum once a week as a minimum, but if asthma is a severe concern, try to vacuum once a day, especially during the Summer when pollen and other allergens are abundant.
Different types of carpet can be easier to vaccuum, while some may be more prone to harboring dust. Consulting with your Houston carpet retailer is the best way to learn what options can offer the most benefit in reducing airborne allergens in your home.
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