Allergies And New Carpet

Those living with asthma or allergy symptoms have historically been advised to remove all carpet in the home because carpet traps allergens.

Allergies and new carpet.

Some carpet manufacturers have become more environmentally aware producing carpets low in formaldehyde. It s worth looking for them. By some estimates carpets outgas or give off the fumes of the formaldehyde for years. Carpet has long been regarded as the enemy when it comes to allergies and asthma.

New carpet can be a source of chemical emissions. Often people assume the fibers of the carpet are what cause the allergic reaction but the fiber whether synthetic or natural is rarely the issue. It is believed that this exacerbates the symptoms of these conditions. There has been no evidence that specifically supports an allergy to carpet but some people believe that it is possible.

If you are considering the installation of new carpets i advise against it. They confirm that volatile organic compounds vocs may be emitted by carpets. I want to have new carpet installed in my home but my husband seems to be allergic or at least very sensitive to the smell of new carpet. Typical allergens that get trapped in carpet include pet dander.

Likewise all new flooring may emit vocs. Can you offer some suggestions answer. New carpet shouldn t contain mold mildew or large amounts of dust or hair which can induce an allergic reaction. The most common signs of a believed allergic reaction to carpet are headache skin rash and upper respiratory discomfort.

But this effect is less common in newer carpets. New carpets expose everyone to formaldehyde which is used to set the dye waterproof the fabric and stiffen the backing. If you have carpet allergies you can either be allergic to allergens that get trapped in your carpet or the carpet itself or both. Overall the evidence shows that carpet increases airborne pollutants more so than hard floors.

Synthetic carpets release poisonous gassed for quite a while after they have been installed. A great many reputable sources advise allergy and asthma sufferers to remove the carpeting. Allergies to carpet may be due to either the materials that make up the carpet or to something that is in or on the carpet. In addition to the carpet the padding and adhesives all emit volatile organic compounds.

With new carpet this is thought to be the result of breathing 4. But many people experience an allergic reaction after a new carpet installation. These compounds may trigger allergy and asthma symptoms.