Carpet Or Wood Floors For Allergies

A well maintained old wood floor or a new wood floor are the perfect choice for allergy sufferers.

Carpet or wood floors for allergies.

It s the preferred flooring surface for homes in westchester county and the east coast. Carpeting can be a reservoir for allergy causing substances allergens that trigger asthma. From hardwood to friendly engineered planks stone cork and even retro linoleum our columnist explores the healthiest flooring choices. Thick carpet heavy high pile shag carpets are the worst flooring options for people looking for relief from dust and other airborne allergens.

Typical allergens that get trapped in carpet include pet dander. It will be worth taking your carpet to the laundromat. Those living with asthma or allergy symptoms have historically been advised to remove all carpet in the home because carpet traps allergens. It naturally resists mold mildew and bacteria and is easily maintained like hardwood floors with a dust mop and appropriate cleaner.

First published in allergic living magazine. Wood floor wood floors are hard the unique woodgrain will show in each plank and wood floors are normally going to appear some shade of tan or brown based on the type of wood and stain used. The reason i say a well maintained old floor is because otherwise you may have cracks and gaps which can lodge a good amount of dust and dirt. Better yet doctors prefer hardwood flooring options install ed inside their own medical offices to minimize the chance of infectious germs and bacteria spreading around.

To subscribe click here. If you have carpet allergies you can either be allergic to allergens that get trapped in your carpet or the carpet itself or both. Hardwood flooring is an excellent choice for those with asthma or allergies since it s easy to clean and maintain. Unlike carpet hardwood doesn t trap allergens nor does it provide an environment for them to grow.

Carpet has long been regarded as the enemy when it comes to allergies and asthma. Hard surface flooring such as vinyl tile or wood is much easier to keep free of dust mites pollen pet dander and other allergens. If you suffer from allergies use this guide to differentiate between the good the bad and the ugly when choosing new flooring for your home. They are natural which limits the vocs eco friendly and easy to maintain for an allergy free floor for years.

Carpeting in the bedroom can be especially problematic because it exposes you to carpet dust throughout the night. Ask most allergists and they ll tell you. When properly finished even a porous product like cork can be great for allergy sufferers. According to the aafa asthma and allergy foundation of america hardwood floors are recommended for those suffering from both allergies and asthma.

4 allergy considerations for carpet vs hardwood.