Carpets are an important addition to any room or home. They provide a safe area for kids and even infants to play in and they can also add life and vibrancy to an otherwise plain room. But what most people don’t know, however, is that carpets can be very dangerous and unhealthy.

Keep your family, especially your children, safe from toxins by making sure that you choose carpets that contain natural fibers. You can also combat various toxins found in carpets by cleaning them regularly and thoroughly. The following are some of the most important tips you have to remember when choosing and cleaning carpets.

1. Choose alternative flooring or carpeting. Some new carpets are made from inorganic substances that can be harmful to your health. Wall-to-wall carpets installed in offices, for instance, may contain toluene, benzene or even acetone, all of which are known carcinogens. To make sure that you only use safe carpeting, choose those made from natural fibers, like wool, hemp (which is a strong fiber that is also resistant to mold and mildew) or sisal (a fiber made from cactus that is also very durable and resistant to stains).

2. Keep shoes off your carpets. If you have carpeted bedrooms in your home or if you have area rugs in dens and living rooms, make sure that you and your family always walk barefoot on them. Dirt, dust and bacteria on shoes and slippers can spread to your carpets. Teach your children to take off their shoes when playing on carpets as well. Keeping your carpets shoe-free will help ensure that your rugs and carpets are free from bacteria and dust mites.

3. Be wary when spraying your carpet with dust and stain repellents. Always check the ingredients of anti-stain products before using them on your carpets. It’s important to note that 3M, a multinational company, removed perflouro-octanyl salphonate in Scotchguard in the year 2000, since it was found to cause reproductive problems in rats. Research on ingredients in such products and only use those that have been deemed safe.

4. Discard old carpets. Carpets that have been with you for years (or even decades) could be made from highly toxic materials, such as formaldehyde, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and 4-PC, which have been associated with upper respiratory problems. Old carpets might also contain dust mites, dirt and even mold and mildew, which may cause severe allergies.

5. Clean your carpet thoroughly at least twice a month. Vacuum your carpet at least once a week, especially in offices with wall-to-wall carpeting, to get rid of dust and dirt. Make sure that you steam-clean your carpets at least once a month. The steam and extreme heat can help you get rid of mold, dust mites and bacteria. It’s strongly suggested that you use high-powered vacuum cleaners when dusting your carpets as well, to make sure that all the bacteria and dust are sucked out.

Keep your family safe from toxins, bacteria and mold by choosing carpets made from natural fibers and by cleaning your carpets thoroughly. There’s nothing better than feeling a clean, soft and toxic-free rug beneath your feet.

Author Bio: Want to find carpet shops that sell carpets made from natural fibers? Visit our site to check out the different carpets near your area.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: carpet shops, carpets