Floor Coverings for Allergy Sufferers

Allergy sufferers need a clean living environment. Tiny particles of dust or invisible mites can cause allergic reactions that range from mildly inconvenient to life threatening. Allergies are a serious issue, and your home's carpeting might contain the worst allergen offenders.

Dust mites, mold spores and pet dander land on the floor and nestle into the fibers. Other allergens like cigarette smoke, household cleaning product residue and insecticides also accumulate in the carpets. While you may enjoy the plush feeling of carpet and use if to muffle household noises, carpet is dangerous for allergy sufferers.

Before you rip up and replace the carpeting, consider your options. With a smooth surface and easy clean up, linoleum and tile appear to be safe for allergy sufferers. The backing, however, contains harmful chemicals that lower the indoor air quality of your home. Mold also develops easily under loose flooring that gets wet. For maximum safety, install timber floorboards.

Timber Floorboards
Timber provides a clean and long-lasting floor for any home. If you worry about the chemicals in the protective finish, ask your contractor to apply varnish or wax with low volatile organic compound. While the contractor refinishes the floor, spend a few days at a friend or relative's house, and open the windows to ventilate the home. After the project is finished, hire a professional cleaner to remove any residue from the floor installation. Your new timber floor now offers beautiful safety.

It cannot keep itself clean, though. At least twice a week, vacuum the floor with a filtered machine that captures and traps particles. Follow the timber manufacturer's instructions for mopping the floor regularly. At least twice a week, vacuum the floor with a filtered machine that captures and traps particles. Follow the timber manufacturer's instructions for mopping the floor in order to remove built-up residue the vacuum leaves behind and protect the floor's finish.

For comfort and warmth on your timber floor, lay area rugs made from washable fabric. Regularly wash the rugs in hot water in order to remove any mites, dust or pet dander. You will also want to implement a no-shoes policy. Shoes carry dirt, pollen and insecticide from outdoor sources into your home. Offer slippers or socks to visitors and guests. Do not be embarrassed about asking people to keep your home allergen free. This policy keeps you safe.

Timber flooring prevents allergens from accumulating and making you sick. It also makes life easier if you have children or pets. Cleaning up pet accidents or spilled milk requires a simple swipe with a damp cloth rather than a bulky carpet cleaner. These factors make installing timber floorboards a safe and simple flooring solution for your home.