Allergy-proof your home: The types of flooring to avoid

Flooring is a big decision. Not only does it have to look great in your home, but it also needs to be easy to maintain and affordable. When you're flooring your home, one of the last things on your mind is probably whether or not it's compatible with allergies. Unfortunately, this can aggravate your health conditions down the line. This guide will help you understand which flooring materials are best for those who suffer from asthma and allergies. So read on, and be sure to keep this information in mind when flooring your home.

Best flooring options for allergy and asthma sufferers

Carpet

Carpets are warm and luxurious but they are usually the least recommend flooring options for asthma and allergy sufferers. Dust mites, pollen and allergens can stay trapped in the carpet fibres. Going for a woollen carpet can be a great option. Wool doesn’t moisture and can make it difficult for dust mites to survive and prevent allergic reactions or asthma attacks.

Unless you clean the carpet regularly, it is difficult to eliminate the microbes completely. The microbes can easily hide in the padding and get impossible to remove. The underlay and adhesives used underneath the carpet release VOCs ( volatile organic compounds) that can trigger allergic reactions or asthma. With that being said, wool, nylon carpets and hypoallergenic carpet underlay are great options if you are set on using carpet flooring.

Nylon carpets are resistant to dirt, mildew and microbes. It is easy to clean and regular vacuuming can remove allergens easily.

Natural carpets made from wool and sisal are resistant to dust mites and allergens and prevent these particles from getting airborne. These carpets can be safely installed in your home.

Linoleum

Linoleum is a great flooring choice for families with allergies and asthma. It's made from natural materials (linseed oil and sawdust), so it doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or irritants. It's also easy to clean and maintain – just sweep or mop it regularly and you're good to go.

Tiles

Tile is a great flooring choice for allergy sufferers. It's easy to clean and doesn't trap any dust or allergens. If you have pets, be sure to choose a tile that is scratch-resistant, as this will help prevent them from scratching the surface.

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners, but it's not the best option if you have someone in your family with allergies or asthma. Hardwood flooring can trap dust and other allergens, which can trigger symptoms in people with respiratory conditions. If you do choose to go with hardwood flooring, be sure to invest in a good vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter to remove allergens easily.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is a great choice for allergy sufferers. It's made from recycled wood composites, so it doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or irritants. It's also easy to clean and maintain – just sweep or mop it regularly. Laminate flooring can have high VOC levels due to its manufacturing process so make sure you are selecting a high-quality laminate flooring option.

Vinyl

Like laminate, vinyl flooring is another good choice. Vinyl is a hard surface flooring; it is a breeze to clean and maintain and wouldn't trigger your asthma or allergy. However, be cautious as the cheaper vinyl options can cause high VOC emissions. Choose vinyl flooring with low VOC levels.

So, what flooring is best for families with allergy-related conditions? In general, we recommend wool carpet,  linoleum, tile or hardwood flooring instead. These flooring types are easy to clean and don't trap any dust or allergens. If you have pets, be sure to choose a tile that is scratch-resistant, as this will help prevent them from scratching the surface. And finally, remember to invest in a good vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter – this will help remove as much of the allergen as possible!

Need help with flooring options for your Sunshine Coast home? Speak to Impact's flooring experts on 1300 253 321 or visit our Maroochydore flooring showroom today.