Carpet, while it certainly has its benefits, isn’t an ideal choice for allergy sufferers. It collects dust, pollen, and dust mites, and even with routine cleaning, these allergens in carpet fibers can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms. From tile to hardwood floors, many flooring materials are healthy alternatives for those who endure allergies.

5 Types of Flooring Suitable for Allergy Sufferers 

1. Hardwood

Hardwood floors are elegant, natural, and long-lasting, but anyone who has allergies will benefit from the way they discourage mold and dust mites. Hardwood flooring options include solid and engineered wood. Just check the product’s Material Safety Data Sheet, or MSDS, to make sure that formaldehyde isn’t an ingredient. Some manufacturers use it as a binder, and it can worsen asthma symptoms.

2. Tile

Ceramic tile floors are incredibly durable, and their hard and flat surfaces deter most allergens, including pollen, pet dander, grass, dirt, and dust mites. They’re also easy to clean and don’t contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are strong triggers for asthma. 

3. Laminate

Laminate floors can be made to resemble other types of flooring, such as stone and hardwood, but at a fraction of the price. It might also contain adhesives with formaldehyde, but overall, it doesn’t attract allergens, is easy to clean, and doesn’t give off VOCs.

4. Cork

Cork floors are made from tree bark, and they offer many advantages. For example, it aids soundproofing and is waterproof and durable. Cork is a naturally hypo-allergenic material that is closely related to hardwood floors. Allergens have no place to cling to and are easily swept or mopped away.

5. Low-pile Carpeting

While high-pile carpeting is not recommended, low-pile carpeting made from nylon fibers is a viable option. With shorter fabric loops, allergens have fewer places to hide, and nylon resists dirt, moisture, and mildew. With frequent vacuuming, owners can enjoy the softness of the carpet without irritating their nose, throat, or eyes.

Whether you want to install low-pile carpeting, tile, cork, laminate, or hardwood floors, you’ll find a selection of each at Accent Flooring in Cincinnati, OH. Locally-owned, this flooring store is staffed by specialists with years of experience in helping customers choose the best material for their floors. They also have flooring products suitable for every budget and project, no matter how big or small. Call (513) 481-8600 or visit them online today to request your free estimate.