Can You Be Allergic to Carpet?

Allergies can be difficult to pin down. If you or your family are experiencing sniffles, headaches, rashes, or even more serious symptoms like chest problems or sickness, you might be looking around for a cause. 

Am I allergic to carpet?

The short answer is that you could be allergic to carpet, but it's probably not that simple. While it's possible that your allergy is caused by the materials your carpet is made of, it's highly unlikely. It's more common for people to be allergic to allergens that have found their way into their carpets.

What allergens do carpets collect? 

Many substances that come into contact with your carpet will leave a small trace. Think of when you spill crumbs on your carpet – they get lost amongst the fibres. This is the case with any allergen, but on a microscopic level.

Whenever someone walks across your carpet, these particles are disturbed and thrown around your room, potentially towards people with allergies. Here are some common allergens that may make you feel like you are allergic to carpet:

Dust and dust mites

Dust can be found in any house – you'd have to be constantly cleaning to entirely eliminate it! Some people react to dust itself, while many are actually allergic to the droppings of tiny mites that flock around dust. 

Pollen

Hayfever is a common allergy that causes problems, especially in warmer months. When your windows are open, pollen can fly inside and burrow deep into the carpet. It can also travel in on people’s shoes.

Mould

Once mould spores find their way into your carpet, it can be very tricky to remove them. As soon as any moisture lands on your carpet, they will grow into patches of mould. Many people are allergic to mould, but it can also impact the health of people without a mould allergy.

Pets

As much as we love our furry friends, they don't agree with everyone's immune system. Pet dander in your carpet can trigger allergy symptoms for those who suffer. Paws, claws and fur also collect allergens outside, bringing them indoors and releasing them into the house.

Can I protect my household against carpet allergens?

Vacuuming

Households with allergen-prone members should vacuum more often. Increasing the frequency that you vacuum can keep the levels of allergens in your home low.

Shoes off

Taking your shoes off when you enter your home reduces the amount of allergens you bring in with you, keeping them outdoors and away from your family.

Low-pile carpet

Longer carpet fibres collect more allergens. By choosing a low-pile carpet, you can reduce the amount of allergens that get stuck in your carpet.

Call a professional carpet cleaner 

Protect your family's health by hiring a professional carpet cleaner. Regular professional carpet cleaning prevents allergens from building up in your carpet, keeping allergies at bay.

For the best results, every cleaner in the National Carpet Cleaning Association (NCCA) directory is fully trained in how to keep your carpet healthy. Browse our directory today.