Learn about the differences between carpet and hardwood.
Is hardwood better for allergens.
Carpeting can be a reservoir for allergy causing substances allergens that trigger asthma.
Some types of flooring can make allergy problems worse but others can reduce indoor allergens.
Reduce indoor allergens with the right flooring.
First published in allergic living magazine.
For people with allergies and asthma carpeting can be bad news.
A great many reputable sources advise allergy and asthma sufferers to remove the carpeting.
Carpet has long been regarded as the enemy when it comes to allergies and asthma.
While hardwood and cork are generally the best options for those with asthma and allergies stone or tile flooring as well as linoleum are also great options.
At the moment hardwood floors are the top trend in home improvements but these trends come and go.
Check out this comparison of hardwood vs tile flooring before you decide.
According to the national wood flooring association nwfa wood floors have the added benefit of not harboring allergens microorganisms or harmful pesticides that can be tracked in from outdoors.
To subscribe click here.
Hardwood is widely known to be the best flooring for asthma and allergies.
From hardwood to friendly engineered planks stone cork and even retro linoleum our columnist explores the healthiest flooring choices.
Ask most allergists and they ll tell you.
Hardwood vs tile flooring the pros.
It is believed that this exacerbates the symptoms of these conditions.
So it s best to consider more practical factors when selecting flooring for your home.
Carpets are worse than hard floors when it comes to allergies some allergists claim that carpets hold onto the allergen particles keeping them around to irritate allergies.
If that isn t an option use low pile instead of high pile carpeting and vacuum weekly with a vacuum cleaner that has a small particle or high efficiency particulate air hepa filter.
Hard surface flooring such as vinyl tile or wood is much easier to keep free of dust mites pollen pet dander and other allergens.
Those living with asthma or allergy symptoms have historically been advised to remove all carpet in the home because carpet traps allergens.
Remove carpeting and use hardwood or linoleum flooring and washable area rugs.
Environmentally friendly linoleum floors are made of vinyl which is usually synthetic and therefore non biodegradable.
Carpeting in the bedroom can be especially problematic because it exposes you to carpet dust throughout the night.