Five Common Carpet Myths Debunked
Carpet has been the most popular floor covering in America for decades for good reason – carpets feel soft, reduce noise and insulate rooms. But some common misconceptions deter people from buying carpets. Before purchasing flooring, consider the following information from Shaw Floors:
MYTH 1 Asthma and allergy sufferers should not have carpet in the home.
FACT: Multiple scientific studies have concluded that carpet fibers, in trapping and immobilizing potential allergy-causing particulates, can actually help people with allergies. If allergens are in the carpet, they’re not circulating in the indoor air stream. Shaw recommends using a HEPA-filter vacuum to fully remove such particles from the indoor environment.
Carpet can help you breathe easier
Carpet acts as a trap for allergens and is capable of holding significant quantities of soil, dust and other substances. The carpet holds on to the particles until you are ready to remove them. Regular vacuuming, using a high-efficiency filter and periodic hot-water extractions, removes the majority of allergens. To learn more check out our Breathe Easier article and a paper, “Carpet, Asthma and Allergies – Myth or Reality” by Dr. Michael Sauerhoff, Ph.D., DABT.
MYTH 2 Carpet is hard to maintain – it stains and wears out very easily.
FACT: Simple steps can extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking new.
Frequent vacuuming removes soil particles before they get below the surface of the pile, where they are far more difficult to remove. Carpet in a typical household should be thoroughly cleaned every 12 to 18 months. Hot water extraction systems provide the most effective cleaning. Professional carpet cleaners generally get the best results.
MYTH 3 Carpet is outdated and boring.
FACT: Carpets come in patterns ranging from traditional hounds tooth to exotic zebra, and in stylish colors like all the new greys and other top trends. Many consumers use a mix of carpet, hardwood and tile in their homes to incredible, beautiful effect. Check out the inspiration section of this site to see beautiful examples of how Shaw carpets are some of the most stylish, modern, sophisticated choices you could ever place nowhere near boring
MYTH 4 Carpet emits harmful chemicals that cause health problems.
FACT: Carpet is one of the lowest emitters of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) among household furnishings and building materials. Shaw carpets meet the industry’s highest VOC standard, the Carpet & Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus program.
MYTH 5 Carpet is bad for the environment
FACT: Floor manufacturers now provide many eco-friendly options for environmentally-conscious consumers. Shaw carpets made of Anso nylon can be recycled and remade into new carpet fiber. The process helps turn carpet into a renewable product and keeps carpet waste out of landfills. Shaw’s ClearTouch carpets contain a minimum of 25% recycled content made from plastic bottles and Shaw’s ClearTouch Platinum carpets contain a minimum of 50% recycled content. That’s kind of a big deal!