Carpet is often one of the sources of toxins in our homes, as it can be made with synthetic materials and chemicals that can be released into the air. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are emitted from carpets as they off-gas, and these can include harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene.
Carpets can also harbor dust mites, mold, and other allergens, which can trigger asthma and other respiratory problems. In this article, we’ll take a look at the potential health risks of carpet, as well as some tips for choosing healthier options.
A carpet is a floor covering made from materials such as wool, cotton, synthetic fibers, or a combination of these. The carpet backing is made of jute, latex, or polypropylene. The carpet pile is made of tufts of yarn that are looped, cut, or twisted.
Carpeting can also contain glues and adhesives that can be a source of hazardous chemicals. These toxic substances can be released into the air, posing a health risk to humans and animals.
Conventional carpets are loaded with toxic chemicals. Here are some of the most common:
Synthetic carpets are made of petroleum-based materials and can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness and nausea. They may also cause liver, kidney and central nervous system damage.
Carpeting also presents a risk for dust mites, which are tiny creatures that thrive in humid environments. Dust mites are a common cause of asthma and allergies.
There are a few things you can do to reduce your exposure to carpet toxins:
There are a number of alternatives to traditional carpeting that can be used in your home. These options include:
There are a number of benefits to choosing organic, nontoxic rugs and carpets. These benefits include:
A non toxic carpet will ideally be made of pure, untreated fibers like wool, jute, sisal or cotton. The adhesive should be zero-VOC. You can find carpets that use natural latex adhesive, completely free of VOCs. Certifications like Greenguard or Green Label Plus can be used to identify low-emitting carpets, but don’t guarantee that a carpet is completely nontoxic.
The best way to be sure you’re getting a nontoxic carpet is to buy from a reputable retailer who can answer all of your questions about the materials and manufacturing process.
When you’re looking for a nontoxic carpet, avoid carpets made of polypropylene (also called olefin or polyethylene), nylon 6, or PVC. These materials are often treated with toxic chemicals like stain-resistant treatments, fire retardants, and antimicrobials. If you do choose to buy a carpet made of one of these materials, make sure it is certified by Greenguard or Green Label Plus and avoid any carpet with an antimicrobial treatment.
When shopping for a non toxic carpet, it is important to read the labels and ingredient lists carefully. Many carpets that claim to be “green” or “eco-friendly” may still contain harmful chemicals.
If you are unsure about a particular carpet, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a different one. There are plenty of non toxic carpets on the market, so there is no need to take risks with your health.
When it comes to buying a nontoxic carpet, there are a number of great options available. You can find these carpets at most major retailers, as well as online. Here are a few of our favorite places to buy nontoxic carpets:
Nature´s Carpet: They offer carpets made with natural materials – wool, rubber latex and jute. It is eco-friendly and biodegradable, unlike synthetic carpets. Nature´s Carpets have passed the CRI Green Label Plus standards for being low VOC. These carpets don’t not off-gas, making them a healthier choice for your home.
Earth Weave: This company offers natural carpets made of wool that is undyed and untreated, making it a safe choice for homes with children or pets. The primary backing is made from hemp and cotton, which is bound to the yarn with all-natural rubber. The secondary backing is made of jute.
This gives the carpet added durability and helps to prolong its lifespan. Additionally, the jute backing is a sustainable material that helps to make this a zero VOC carpet. When installed properly, these carpets will provide years of enjoyment while helping to protect the environment.
Safavieh: Safavieh is a leading retailer of high-quality, nontoxic carpets. They offer a wide range of styles and colors to choose from. On their website, you´ll find natural fiber rugs and carpets made of wool, jute, sisal, and cotton. Combined with a non toxic rug pad, these carpets are a great choice for a healthy home.
NuLoom: NuLoom is another great option for nontoxic carpets. They offer a wide variety of styles, colors, and materials to choose from. Their carpets are made of cotton, wool, jute, and sisal.
Carpet is not inherently toxic, but it can harbor harmful toxins and particles that can be released into the air. Vacuuming and other cleaning methods can help to reduce the amount of these contaminants in your home, but it is also important to choose non toxic, natural carpet made from low-emitting materials and to avoid using chemicals or other products that could release harmful toxins into the air.
Read More: Safavieh vs NuLoom Review
My name is Kamila, and I'm passionate about researching non-toxic, organic products for the home. I believe it's so important to create a safe and healthy environment for our families, and I enjoy helping others do the same.