Carpet And HealthClearing the AirCarpet is not just a stylistic choice; it is a safe, cost-effective choice for virtually any indoor setting. Acts an allergen trapSimply put, what falls to the carpet (common dust, pollutants and many things that we breathe) tends to stay on the carpet until it is vacuumed. Unlike smooth surfaces that allow dust and other allergens to re-circulate, properly maintained carpet leads to improved air quality and a healthier indoor environment. In a government study in Sweden, when carpet was banned from public buildings and replaced with smooth surfaces, the allergic reactions of people increased as carpet use decreased. Studies have compared the distribution of airborne dust associated with normal activities on hard and soft flooring surfaces. Findings show that walking on hard surfaces disturbed more particles. These particles became airborne and entered the breathing zone. In contrast, carpeted surfaces trapped more particles so that walking disturbed fewer particles. The result was less dust in the breathing zone over carpeted floors. Lowest emitter of VOCsAnother indoor air quality issue involves the emissions of volatile organic compound (VOC) levels from building materials. Carpet is the lowest VOC emitter of common flooring choices and one of the lowest emitting products used in new construction and renovation, much lower than products such as paint. The already low VOC emission of new carpet drops significantly after 24 hours, even sooner with fresh air ventilation. CRI offers Green Label and Green Label Plus testing and certification to indicate carpet, cushions and adhesives that emit low VOCs. About moldMold grows in any moist environment where dirt and dust provide nutrients. It does not grow on dry, clean synthetic or wool carpet. Improperly maintained heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) units are the leading sources of mold spores. Shutting off the HVAC system at night or otherwise extending periods of system downtime increases relative humidity, encouraging mold spore growth. Reactivating the system thrusts spores into the air.
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