Allergy season is here, which means hay fever, sneezing, runny noses, and coughing for many Australians. While we often think of allergies as being caused by pollen in the air, we don't always consider how allergens can get into our homes and make our symptoms worse.
Carpets can trap allergens and cause health problems and headaches long after allergy season is over. We have some tips to help you prevent allergy symptoms at home.
But first, let’s cover the basics. Why do carpets cause allergies?
Carpets are made of fibers that trap debris, such as dirt, dust, and pollen. This can be a problem for allergy sufferers, as these particles can trigger allergic reactions. Carpets that get wet or suffer water damage can also become a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause respiratory problems.
To reduce the amount of debris that collects in carpets, it is important to vacuum them regularly. You should also have your carpets professionally cleaned every few years. If you have allergies, you may want to consider using a hypoallergenic carpet or installing hardwood floors.
Carpeting traps pollen and mold even after repeated vacuuming or cleaning. These allergens can work their way deep into the carpet fibers, making them difficult to remove. While carpeting itself does not cause allergies, it can exacerbate symptoms for people who are already allergic to these substances.
Additionally, allergens trapped in carpeting can continue to cause problems even after allergy season is over, increasing the risk of winter illness and congestion.
People with allergies can make their homes more comfortable by regularly cleaning their carpets. This can help to remove dust, dirt, and debris, which can harbor allergens. Professional carpet cleaners can deep clean carpets once or twice a year, but there are also things that homeowners can do to keep their carpets clean and safe.
Carpet Cleaning Tips for Allergy Sufferers
1. Use a Vacuum Cleaner With a HEPA Filter
To reduce the impact of allergens on your allergies, vacuum your carpets at least once a week using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. HEPA filters trap allergens and other microscopic particles, preventing them from escaping back into the air.
Be sure to empty your vacuum cleaner regularly to avoid re-circulating allergens.
If you live in a high-allergy part of Australia vacuum every day and always make sure that the filter is clean.
2. Spot Clean Stains as soon as Possible
Quick action is essential to remove spills from your carpet. The longer a spill sits, the more likely it is to set in and cause permanent damage. In addition, spills can attract mold and mildew, which can be harmful to your health.
To clean up a spill, first blot up as much of the liquid as possible with a clean, absorbent cloth. Then, mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent and apply it to the stain with a sponge. Blot again until the stain is gone. If the stain persists, you may need to call a professional carpet cleaner.
3. Use an Air Purifier for Allergies
An allergy-rated air purifier can help to reduce your need for deep carpet cleaning. By removing pollen and mold from the air before they can settle on your carpet, an air purifier can help to keep your carpet cleaner and fresher for longer.
4. Brush and Clean Your Pets Regularly
While shedding pets can be a trigger for allergies, there are steps you can take to reduce the impact on your allergies. Regular brushing and bathing can help remove loose hair and dander.
Vacuuming and cleaning surfaces can help remove allergens from the air and environment. You can also consider investing in a HEPA air purifier to help filter out allergens.
5. Use these Preventative Measures When Buying Carpets
- Buy a carpet made from nylon.
- Buy a carpet with shorter strands; avoid shag carpets.
- Buy a low VOC carpet. Carpets with low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels have little to no harmful chemicals that can trigger allergies.
Why Hire a Professional Carpet Cleaner
Even the most diligent home cleaner cannot remove all allergens or stains from their carpets. Professional carpet cleaners have the tools and expertise to get the job done right, leaving your carpets looking and smelling fresh. Get a free estimate from Performance Cleaning today. Call us on 1300 867 872.