A Healthy Choice
Naturally non-allergenic
Wool carpets are naturally non-allergenic. A number of
international studies have shown that they are very effective at
absorbing and filtering volatile organic compounds (VOCs) -
unwanted toxins and odours that can cause irritations for
asthmatics and those with respiratory problems. Carpets bind the
allergy-causing substances tightly, reducing those circulating in
the breathing zone where they are more easily inhaled.
The German asthma and allergy federation (DAAB) looked at the
content of fine dust particles in the air over smooth floors and
carpeted floors - findings showed that indoor air in a carpeted
room contained less than half the amount of fine particulate dust
than the smooth floors. Even in Sweden, which has seen a massive
reduction in the amount of broadloom carpet in floors, has still
seen an increase in allergic reactions and other environmental
sensitivities. So you can have your carpet, and still breathe
easily.
As a natural humidity regulator, carpets also absorb moisture
when the atmosphere is damp - dampness is one of the key causes of
respiratory illness.
A recent Living Channel TV segment
discussed this further.
Dust mites don't like carpet
Asthma is mainly caused by the presence of dust mites which feed
on human skin flakes and are mostly found in beds and upholstery
which have the right conditions of temperature, darkness and
humidity. Carpets are not their preferred location, usually being
too cold, too dry and exposed to light in most places.
Wool carpet fibres are not a source of food for mites. Vigorous
and frequent vacuum cleaning using a good vacuum system (the NZ
Asthma Foundation recommends a HEPA filter system) will keep any
contamination there might be to a minimum. Dust mites can become a
problem if the carpet is heavily worn - meaning it will not clean
as effectively and should be replaced.
References:
German Asthma and Allergy Society (DAAB). 2005 study on "Indoor
Fine Particulate Load" published in Allergie Konkret.
Carpet and Rug Institute This site from the Carpet and Rug
Institute contains links to a number of studies on the
relationship between wool carpet and respiratory ailments.
IWTO research paper, "Chemisorption of protein reactive indoor
air pollutants by wool", DWI, Aachen Germany, April 2005.
Canesis Research 05CNJ/04. "Identifying and promoting positive
health benefits of wool textiles", Dr Simon Causer, Canesis Network
Ltd, July 2005
Canesis Research. "Wool Textiles as Components of Safe,
Functional Built Environment", Dr Nigel Johnson and Ms Caroline
Shorter, Canesis Network Ltd, July 2005