If you suffer from allergies, you know how important it is to keep your home and carpets clean. Thankfully, we’ve got the best carpet cleaning methods for allergies, and how to create a healthier environment in your home.
Last week on the blog, we looked at steam cleaning vs shampooing carpets. With so many different methods for carpet cleaning, we want to help you make the best informed decisions.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at which method carpet cleaning experts say is the best for keeping your allergy symptoms at bay.
Why Carpets Hold Allergens
Carpets can be a hotbed for allergens like dust mites, pet hair, pet dander, and pollen particles.
These allergens fall on and settle into carpet fibers, especially plush carpets.
As people walk over the carpet, these allergens can become airborne and trigger allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion. Plus, mold spores and mildew can also grow in damp carpets, which can worsen allergy symptoms and even lead to respiratory problems.
Over time, these allergens and pollutants can build up in carpets and make them a source of chronic discomfort for allergy sufferers.
Traditional Carpet Cleaning Methods and their Drawbacks
In the past, there were only a few methods of cleaning carpets available. Some of the most common traditional carpet cleaning methods include dry cleaning and shampooing.
These methods were effective in getting rid of dirt and stains, but they weren’t helpful for allergy sufferers.
Dry cleaning involves using a powdered cleaning agent that is spread on the carpet and then vacuumed up. This method can leave behind residue that can irritate allergy symptoms. Plus, the powder can get trapped deep in the carpet fibers, making it hard to remove completely.
Shampooing carpets involves using a soapy solution that is applied to the carpet, then scrubbed with a machine, and then rinsed with water. This method can leave carpets damp, which can lead to mildew and mold growth. It also leaves behind a soapy residue, which is another thing that can be a trigger for allergy symptoms.
Overall, traditional carpet cleaning methods don’t provide an effective solution for allergy sufferers.
Enter hot water extraction, also known as steam cleaning. This is where allergic reactions can be drastically reduced, and indoor air quality can be improved in your home.
The Best Carpet Cleaning Method for Allergies: Steam Cleaning
Hot water extraction, or steam cleaning, is widely recognized as the best method of carpet cleaning for allergy sufferers.
This technique uses high heat and zero chemicals to deeply clean and extracts dirt, dust, allergens, and other debris from the carpet fibers.
Steam cleaning can be done by professional carpet cleaners, but it can also be done with a residential machine on your own.
It’s worth mentioning that professional carpet cleaning services are probably better for those who suffer from sensitivities to common household allergens.
The cleaning process with professional equipment is better overall than the DIY machines you can purchase for your home.
Commercial machines are stronger and more effective at removing excess water so your carpet is not left wet. The wet carpet can make allergens even worse.
If you do purchase a DIY steamer, be sure you do your research. Find the best carpet cleaners that reach high temperatures, use less water, and have the most suction.
Benefits of Steam Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers
Here’s why steam cleaning is the best option for people with allergies:
1. Removes Allergens
The hot water used in this method kills germs, bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens that can trigger allergic reactions. It also helps to extract them from the carpet fibers, leaving your carpet free from allergens.
2. Chemical-Free Cleaning
Steam cleaning uses hot water and steam to clean your carpets, which means you avoid using a large group of chemicals in your home. This makes it a safer and more eco-friendly cleaning method.
3. Better Air Quality
Removing allergens from your carpets can significantly improve the air quality in your home. Steam cleaning not only eliminates allergens from your carpets but also prevents them from circulating in the air, leading to a healthier and cleaner indoor environment.
4. Effective Stain Removal
Steam cleaning is effective at removing stubborn stains from your carpets, such as pet stains, coffee spills, and wine spills. This can leave your carpets looking as good as new while also improving your indoor air quality.
5. Long-Lasting Results
With the hot water extraction method, the deep cleaning of your carpets ensures long-lasting results. Your carpets will remain cleaner and fresher for a more extended period, ensuring that your allergies stay at bay for longer.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean and Allergy-Free Carpet
These carpet cleaning tips are not just great for preventing allergy flare-ups, but they’re also great for keeping clean carpets that look great.
Incorporate these into your daily life, and you’ll see great results.
- Vacuum regularly: The best way to prevent allergens from building up in your carpet is to vacuum it regularly. Vacuum at least once a week and use a HEPA vacuum cleaner. A HEPA filter vacuum has a much better filter than other vacuums that will ensure that even the smallest particles, like dog and cat dander, are trapped and removed from the fibers of your carpet.
- Address spills and stains immediately: If you spill something on your carpet, clean it up immediately. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove the stain and the more likely it is to attract allergens. It can also cause mold growth, which can cause major issues for your immune system whether you suffer from allergies or not.
- Use doormats: Use doormats both inside and outside of your front door to prevent dirt and allergens from being tracked inside your home.
- Avoid wearing shoes inside: Remove your shoes when entering your home to avoid tracking in allergens and dirt from outside.
- Deep clean your carpet regularly: Regular vacuuming is important, but you should also deep clean your carpet on a regular basis. Consider scheduling professional steam cleaning at least once a year to make sure the allergens, dirt, and bacteria are removed.
- Control humidity: Dust mites thrive in humid environments. Make sure your home is temperature controlled, or use a dehumidifier to control the humidity levels in your home and prevent dust mites from multiplying.
Conclusion
By following these tips and choosing the best carpet cleaning method for allergies, you can keep your home’s carpets clean and allergy-free for years.
Go ahead and kick off your shoes, and enjoy your fresh and healthy home!
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