Stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy watery eyes, headaches. You know the symptoms. If you are a sufferer you will try almost anything to get relief. Allergists and other well-meaning advisors often recommend removing carpet to lessen indoor allergies. Does it really work?

Historical Misconceptions About Carpets and Allergies

In the 1970’s discussions and reports in Sweden blamed carpet as a source of allergies. Public building officials and consumers drastically reduced their use of carpet. Carpet fell from a market share of 40% to only 2% by 1992. Surprisingly though, allergic reactions in the general population increased. Why? Professors Roshan L. Shishoo and Alf Borjesson of the Swedish Institute of Fiber and Polymer Research argue that carpet removal does not improve conditions for allergic patients. Similar studies in the United States reached the same conclusion.

Further studies conducted in the United States supported these findings. Researchers examined various environments—both with and without carpets—and monitored allergy-related outcomes. These studies consistently reached the same conclusion as the Swedish research, challenging the prevailing wisdom of the time and leading to a reevaluation of carpet’s role in indoor air quality.

The Beneficial Role of Carpets in Allergen Trapping

In fact, carpet acts as a giant filter, actually trapping airborne pollutants and allergens at the level of your feet. However, dirty carpet is another matter. “Carpet that is neglected can become a source of harmful pollutants,” says Michael Jatoft, president of Dry-Concepts. “Dirty carpets harbour known allergens like dust mites and their feces. Cleaning carpets regularly is as important as changing your air conditioning filter.” Mr. Jatoft says cleaning your carpet “filter” removes dust mite parts and their feces, as well as other irritants so that your indoor air is healthier.

Allergy Reduction Solutions

Dry-Concepts has been cleaning carpet for good health for 39 years. A unique dry cleaning method prevents the musty odors and mold growth associated with long drying times. Carpets dry in 1-3 hours allowing you to “Clean Today, Entertain Tonight.” Their large staff of technicians, certified by the International Institute of Cleaning and Restoration Certification, stand ready to help you have a healthier home environment. Clean equals healthier. Don’t stop at just your carpet. Dry-Concepts can clean your furniture, drapes and, tile and grout. Have your fine area rugs cleaned in their 7,000 square foot rug cleaning plant. If allergies are really a problem, consider a maintenance agreement. Your carpet will be cleaned four times a year at a greatly reduced price.

Mr. Jatoft’s conclusion? “Enjoy your carpet. Don’t tear it out. All it needs is regular cleaning.”

Call Dry-Concepts at 1-800-248-5071 or look them up on the web at www.dryconcepts.com.

Tags : carpet , cleaning carpets , rug cleaning