CARPET KEEPS ALLERGENS OUT OF THE AIR

Carpet acts like a trap, keeping dust and allergens out of the air we breathe.  Simply put, what falls to the carpet (dust, pet dander and many other particulates that we breathe in) tends to stay trapped in the carpet until it is removed through vacuuming or extraction cleaning.  Unlike smooth floor surfaces that allow dust and other allergens to re-circulate into the breathing zone, properly maintained carpet actually contributes to improved air quality.

Independent testing has compared the distribution of airborne dust associated with normal activities on hard and soft flooring surfaces. Findings show that walking on hard surfaces disturbs more particles than walking on carpeted surfaces. In contrast, carpeted surfaces trap more particles so that walking disturbs fewer particles, resulting in less dust in the breathing zone of children and adults. More on the Study

FOR THE HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

To learn more, view this 3-minute moving media presentation created especially for healthcare providers.

http://www.carpet-rug.org/commercial-customers/carpet-and-health/index.cfm

USE THE RIGHT CARPET CLEANING PRODUCTS

A 2009 survey of asthma and allergy specialists and general practitioners found that most agree that it is better to clean carpet and rugs than remove them from an office or home.

Patients and consumers are advised to use carpet cleaning products, equipment and professional cleaning services certified by the CRI Seal of Approval program.

Industry experts tested an assortment of carpet cleaning solutions, deep cleaning extractors and vacuums and found a wide variance in how well these products work, with some products even damaging the carpet. To be Seal of Approval certified, vacuums must pass strict soil removal, texture retention and dirt and dust containment standards. In addition to soil and texture retention standards, certified extractors must not leave excess water in the carpet. Read More

HANDY CARPET CLEANING TIPS

Many people do not know how to properly care for and clean their carpets, and they are missing a great opportunity to help improve their indoor air quality. Order your copy of the Carpet Cleaning Tips for Dummies® with tips for how to properly – and easily – clean and maintain carpet and identify the products and equipment that will give you the results you want.