(BPT) -
Carpet has gained quite the reputation in the past decade, fueled by
a multitude of assumptions. But is there truth behind the rumors
about this very popular flooring option? With a little investigation
you'll find many are completely false - making carpet a viable
flooring option that can benefit everyone, from allergy sufferers to
penny pinchers to the elderly.
Who
can benefit from carpet
Carpet
isn't just comfortable and stylish, it's a safe flooring option too,
reducing slips and softening falls if they do occur - ideal for both
the elderly and very young. Carpet also improves a home's acoustics
because it absorbs noise rather than reflecting it back into the
room. Those who want to save money welcome the fact that carpet
provides actual thermal resistance (R-value) - meaning when it's
cold, it retains warmth longer, conserving energy and reducing
heating bills.
Perhaps
one of the biggest misconceptions about carpet is that it's bad for
people with allergies. But the 60 million Americans the Asthma and
Allergy Foundation of America says live with respiratory ailments
might be surprised to learn that the opposite appears to be true,
according to multiple studies.
Allergy
and asthma carpet studies
A
15-year Swedish study found no link between carpet and allergy and
asthma attacks. In fact, when carpet usage in Sweden decreased by 70
percent, allergy reactions in the general population increased by 30
percent. In 2003, a study of school children in New Jersey found that
having carpet in a child's bedroom was associated with fewer missed
school days and less need for asthma medication. These are just two
of many studies showing no correlation between carpet and allergies
or asthma.
How
carpet helps asthma and allergy sufferers
So if
carpet isn't contributing to allergy and asthma problems, how is it
helping those with the conditions? Carpet acts much like a filter,
trapping allergens and keeping them out of the air you and your
family breathe. These trapped allergens, such as pollen, pet dander
and dust, can then easily be removed through proper cleaning
techniques.
Think of
your carpet like you would a sweater in your wardrobe. If you wear a
sweater, it eventually gets dirty and needs to be washed. Your carpet
is walked on by people and pets frequently, and much like a sweater,
needs to get cleaned regularly to look its best and last a long time.
Carpet Care
To keep
your carpet in great shape, reduce allergens and retain good indoor
air quality, consider these tips from the Carpet and Rug Institute
(CRI):
1.
Vacuum regularly
How
often do you really need to vacuum? High-traffic or pet areas should
be vacuumed daily, medium-traffic areas need to be vacuumed about
twice a week and light-traffic areas should be vacuumed weekly. -Use
a CRI-certified vacuum for optimum soil removal, dust containment and
to avoid damage to your carpet.
2. Limit
dirt intrusion
Keeping
as much dirt and grime off the carpet as possible is ideal. Be
proactive and put out a durable entrance mat for people to wipe off
their feet before entering your home. Then require everyone to take
off their shoes so less dirt is tracked inside.
3. Deep
clean
Once a
year your carpet should be cleaned by hot water extraction by a
professional. This process extracts deeply embedded dirt that regular
vacuuming can't reach. To find a CRI Seal of Approval Service
Provider visit www.carpet-rug.org.
If you
suffer from particularly bad allergies, consider cleaning your
upholstered furniture, draperies and blinds also. Like carpet, these
also need regular cleaning. -Drapes and blinds can build up
microscopic allergens quickly from open windows. Vacuum and wash
regularly and consider hiring a professional cleaner once a year or
as needed.
For more information about carpeting call Interior Surfaces at (614)761-7856 or visit www.interior-surfaces.com.
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Content Provided By: Courtesy of Brandpoint
