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There are so many flooring options out there and there’s no reason you should limit your choices just because you have an allergy. Let’s face it. A new floor is an important and expensive investment. Therefore, see what is worth paying special attention to.
Tiles for allergy sufferers
The tiles are easy to keep clean as dust mites, pollen and pet hair cannot penetrate the impermeable texture. Ceramic and porcelain models are highly waterproof. That is why they will work perfectly in the kitchen and bathroom. However, some porous stone tiles may be more porous than others. Then dirt and dust penetrate the gaps more easily. Therefore, they are not a good solution for allergy sufferers.
Vinyl floors and allergies
Whether in sheet, tile or plank form, vinyl flooring offers all the benefits of a smooth, hard surface. Food debris, moisture, mold and dust mites cannot hide in them, gather up or bloom. Check that the specific floor is free of VOCs, i.e. volatile organic compounds.
A stopper for allergy sufferers
Cork flooring is naturally antimicrobial due to a chemical called suberin. It inhibits the development of bacterial factors. Its surface is relatively durable. However, sometimes it has many small areas where microscopic allergens can accumulate. Make sure your floor is properly finished. This makes it easier to mop it.
Linoleum for allergies
Linoleum is made exclusively of linseed oil, cork dust, wood flour, resins and pigments. This is one of the most toxic floor versions.
Wooden floor
A wooden floor will not make all allergy-causing substances magically disappear. Dust, pet hair, pollen and other allergens will still be present in your home. The difference, however, is that natural wooden floors are easier to clean and maintain.
Carpets and rugs – not for allergy sufferers
If you are allergic, avoid carpets and rugs at all costs. High bristles easily accumulate dust mites, mold, pollen, pet hair, grass and dirt. They can worsen the symptoms of your allergy. Carpeting also retains moisture, which promotes the growth of mold. If you must have a carpet, go for a low pile model.
Laminate and vinyl flooring offer more allergen control than carpeting. However, they are often exposed to chemicals, increasing the risk of exposure to VOCs. So if you decide to go with laminate or vinyl, look for a product that is low in VOC.
In the case of symptoms indicating dust allergy, it is worth performing a test package for the diagnosis of house dust mite allergy, which is available on Medonet Market at an attractive price.
Check:
- Air purifier – operation, maintenance, available models
How to avoid VOC in floors?
If you have symptoms such as runny nose, coughing, watery eyes, or trouble breathing, you may blame it on indoor allergens. We often assume that the cause is dust, mold or pollen. You may be wrong! Sometimes they are the reason VOC (volatile organic compounds). These are small molecules of chemicals (e.g. formaldehyde) that escape into the air. They are common in floor finishes, adhesives and sealants.
Choosing the right floor depends on several factors. Overall, you need something that is mite and mildew resistant, and VOC free. VOCs are trace amounts of chemicals left behind during processing.
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