Allergy Friendly Carpet

Allergy-Free Vs. Allergy-Friendly

• There is no such thing as "allergy-free" carpeting. Rugs and carpets that are labeled hypo-allergenic or allergy-friendly are either made of natural, plant-based fibers and contain no animal hair or chemicals or are made to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for chemical emissions. People who are allergic to latex should purchase carpets containing synthetic latex, since even carpets that are labeled allergy-friendly sometimes contain this compound.

Synthetic Carpet

• Synthetic carpet is considered a good allergy-friendly choice for individuals who are allergic to animal hair, since the fibers in the carpet are man-made. These types of carpets are also easier to clean and maintain than many animal hair rugs, since synthetic carpet fibers are usually shorter than natural ones. Synthetic carpet is often coated with stain-resistant Teflon or other stain repellents, which can aggravate allergies in those sensitive to household chemicals.

Vegetable Fiber Carpeting

• Carpets made from vegetable fibers are another option for those who are allergic to animal hair and the chemicals found in synthetic carpet, or for those who simply want to bring the outdoors indoors. Bamboo and jute, because of their fibrous and tough properties, have been used to make rugs and carpets for centuries. Sisal, made from the fibers of the sisal plant, is also naturally static-repellent and sound absorbing.

Eco-Friendly Carpet

• Eco-friendly carpet has low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and is sometimes made from recycled materials. Eco-friendly carpet is tested and approved by the Carpet and Rug Institute and the Environmental Protection Agency to meet certain guidelines and may also be made from recycled materials. During carpet removal and installation, most carpets emit VOCs and chemicals that can trigger or aggravate allergies. Eco-friendly carpets emit less of these substances.

Carpet Care Considerations

• Regardless of the type of carpet, keep it clean and free of allergen build-up (pollen, hair, dust mites, dander) by vacuuming it frequently with a HEPA filter-containing vacuum cleaner.