Facts and Myths: Berber Carpets and Allergies
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In recent years there has been much research and debate about how the use of carpets and rugs contributes to allergies and asthma. On one side, some argue that carpets contribute to poor air quality by trapping dust an allergens in a room. On the other hand, carpets may actually help contain allergens, preventing them from floating through the air. Both sides make a compelling case, but what is should you beleive?
“Could Your Rug Make You Sick?”
This is the title of an article recently published in Health magazine (Mar2009, Vol. 23 Issue 2, p104-104). Health makes the claim that carpets can and do contribute to indoor allergies. According to Jonathan Bernstein, MD, professor of medicine at the University of Cincinnati in the Division of Immunology and Allergy, “floor coverings are a major reservoir for indoor and outdoor allergens, including animal dander and dust mites.” The article continues by outlining various ways to reduce the allergy inducing qualities of carpets by:
- Choosing a less plush rug and sticking to natural materials. Berber carpet is good example of a less plush rug. Jute, sisal and hemp are excellent natural fibers, which are even less plush than a Berber carpet.
- Finding a carpet with low-VOC’s and asking for an installation with low VOC’s. The off-gassing of carpets and synthetic material greatly reduces indoor air quality
- Keeping your carpet clean. Regular vacuuming (at least once a week) can help control the amount of allergens stuck in the fibers.
Myth or Reality?
In a report titled “Carpet, Asthma and Allergies – Myth or Reality,” noted toxologist Dr. Mitchell Saueroff, makes a comparative analysis of several recent studies about carpets and allergens. He concludes that carpets do not cause asthma and do not increase the instance or severity of allergies. He also notes that “multiple studies have reported fewer allergy and asthma symptoms associated with carpet.” Another important study was updated by the World Health organization and the U.S. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute which also supports this claim by noting that there is no evidence to suggest that replacing carpet with a hard surface had any health benefits.
The Carpet and Rug Institute claims that carpets actually improve air quality by containing particles and allergens in the floor. For example, Berber carpet, with its looped pile, keeps dust close to the floor, even when walked on. However, it is then essential to vacuum regularly with a CRI-approved vacuum to further contain the particles.
Are VOC’s the Culprit?
Most Carpets (and carpet backings) are made with a variety of chemicals and even hazardous materials. These chemicals, or VOC’s, are emitted from the carpet after installation. These emissions are evident in a foul smell, but often they aren’t evident at all. It is possible that the VOC’s contribute to various respiratory problems. However, some studies do show that carpet VOC’s are quickly emitted and after about 2 weeks, the chemicals will be nearly gone. It is still smart to take certain precautions, such as requesting carpets and installation products with low VOC’s. Once installed, keep the room well ventilated to allow the gases to escape the room.
Is Berber Carpet Safe?
The short answer is yes, but with precautions. The carpet industry wants to make sure that consumers continue purchasing carpets, while the health care community continues to search for causes of increased occurrence of asthma and allergies.
Carpets should be considered on an individual basis, taking into consideration the health concerns and sensitivities of each individual. One person may find that hard surface floors indeed stir up the dust, while another may find the trapped particles in carpets aggravate their allergies.
In general, Berber carpet may be a good option, as the trapped allergens could remain closer to floor. To keep your indoor air quality good, you should clean and vacuum any floor covering on a regular basis.
More Information
In writing this article, I researched several consumer magazines, the Carpet and Rug Institute and found several studies on the subject as well. After conducting the initial research, I then ran across this great article from the Carpetology blog. Carpetology outlines similar myths and facts as uncovered here, plus includes more links and articles for further information. While carpetology doesn’t specifically address Berber carpet, you can find a host of useful information about carpets and allergies.
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4 Responses to “Facts and Myths: Berber Carpets and Allergies”
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Berber Carpet Guide, thanks for helping communicate that carpet actually helps prevent allergies.
Is it best to have berber carpet DRY cleaned rather than steam cleaned? Our carpet is about 5 years old and has only been vacuumed. We are a retired couple living on the 4th. floor and have
very few guests. Thank you.
Berber carpets can be steam cleaned as with other types of cut pile carpets. However, (as you may have already guessed), some consideration should be taken regarding how wet the carpet becomes during cleaning. The tightly woven loops have a tendency to retain moisture longer than cut pile counterparts. If you do steam clean, just remember a few tips:
Only give one pass with the steamer – passing over the same spot multiple times will just make the carpet water-logged. If you need extra cleaning, it’s best to let the carpet dry completely in between each pass of the steamer.
You should use your A/C or open windows to encourage the carpet to dry fully.
If you have a particularly soiled area of carpet, treat it separately, before steam-cleaning. Once the treated area is dry, then steam with the rest of the carpet.
You can certainly use a dry cleaning method or low-moisture for the carpet. This is definitely recommended for wool Berber and can also be used on nylon.
Steam or dry is really up to you and may depend on how much time you can give your carpet to properly dry out.
To maintain your carpet, be sure to vacuum regularly, as particles love to get stuck in the dense little Berber loops. You might also consider removing your shoes while in the house to reduce soiling the carpet. However, Berber is hardy and can really take a beating without getting too worn out.
Good Luck!
Great info on berber. I have home Sellers always asking me what increases you home value more? Berber or Carpet? Here’s what I tell them: http://honeydolisttv.com/berber-carpet-is-the-key
Cheers,
Sebastian