new carpet allergy

Many of our customers ask us about having new carpet installed in their homes and what can be done to alleviate symptoms related to new carpet.  Our first choice is that you not choose carpet but rather a hard flooring surface like wood, tile or linoleum. Using area rugs that can be more easily cleaned and replaced can help "warm" up a room.  Unfortunately too many people still "have to have" carpet in their bedrooms.  For those, we offer you this advice.

New carpet can be a source of chemical emissions. In addition to the carpet, the padding and adhesives all emit volatile organic compounds. Some people report symptoms such as upper respiratory irritations, headaches, fatigue, skin rashes, shortness of breath and cough which they associate with new carpet installation. The distinct odor of new carpet is usually attributed to the chemical 4-phenylcyclohexene (4-PC). This chemical can be detected at very low levels, but does not result in an unpleasant odor for everyone. Usually, the odor dissipates within a few days of installation.

1. CONSULT with your retailer before installation.  Ask for help in selecting carpet, padding and adhesives that will off gas less and produce fewer emissions.
    

2. REQUEST that the carpet installer follow the Carpet and Rug Institute's installation guidelines.
    

3. BEFORE installing the carpet, ask the retailer to unroll and air out the carpet in a well ventilated area.
    

4. HAVE the sensitive person leave the premises during and immediately after carpet installation for several days if practical.
    

5. INCREASE ventilation!  Open the windows and doors, and use fans to increase the amount of fresh air exchange. Use the HVAC system in fan mode for two or three days after installation to clear the air.
    

6. USE an air purifier that has a HEPA and Carbon filter to remove particulates and harmful emissions resulting from the new carpet.
    

7. VACUUM new carpet frequently.  Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner.
    

8. CHANGE furnace filters frequently, we recommend once a month.

When properly cared for, our dust mite encasing will provide years of trouble free dust mite protection.  Wash according to the directions below.  Washing encasings removes any particulate on the outside of the fabric, and the drying (slight shrinking) process helps maintain the proper small pore size. 

Pillow Encasings

Allersoft pillow encasings should be removed and washed in hot water every two weeks.  Do not use bleach or fabric softener when washing.  Dry on medium heat.  Dry completely before installing.

Mattress Encasings

Allersoft mattress encasings should be removed (much more difficult than pillow encasings) and washed at least twice a year.  Wash in hot water, do not use bleach or fabric softener.  Dry on medium heat.  Dry completely before installing.

Read more about washing your dust mite encasings

We are available 24 hours a day on the telephone and on the web to take your order.  Call us at 1-800-339-7123 or shop online at achooallergy.com. 

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