Many of the top allergens are often found hiding in plain sight — your carpet. The multi-layer material is composed of dense fibers and thick padding, which is perfect for harboring common airborne irritants. Luckily, there are a variety of ways to reduce your family's exposure, including carpet cleaning. Here's a closer at some of the particles that may be calling your flooring "home." 

What Are the Most Common Carpet Allergens?

Dust Mites 

Contrary to the name, dust mites feed on dead human skin cells. People are constantly shedding these cells all day long, and many of them end up on the floor, which attracts the pest. Unfortunately, the tiny bugs cause a variety of nasal and upper-respiratory symptoms for individuals with allergies.  

Dust & Pollen 

Two of the most common allergens are usually lumped into the same category because they're often found together. Pollen is released by all types of plant species, from trees to flowers. Dust, on the other hand, is created primarily from small particles of dirt and sand with fibers and dander mixed in. It can also contain pollen. 

Mold

There are over 1,000 mold species in the U.S.. Unfortunately, the presence of fungi in the home can cause serious health problems, even if a person doesn't suffer from other types of allergies. For mold to thrive, it needs a warm, humid, and dark environment, which makes carpet ideal. 

How to Alleviate the Problem

Allergens enter homes in the air as well as on clothing and pets, so preventing them from entering a home is virtually impossible. Luckily, you can combat the problem by practicing a few simple exercises. First up, vacuum the floor at least twice a week and schedule professional carpet cleaning on a monthly basis. While vacuuming helps remove surface-level allergens, the deep-clean breaks up and eliminates any buildup that's embedded into the fibers and padding. 

There are also a few ways to reduce the level of airborne allergens before they have a chance to reach the carpet. Change your HVAC's air filter monthly and utilize a HEPA version for optimal filtration. You also want to remove shoes at the door to avoid tracking in pollen and dust on the soles. Additionally, keep your home's humidity levels under 55% to inhibit mold growth and the presence of dust mites. 

Fight back against allergens in your home with help from the professionals at Final Touch Cleaning Services in Vandalia, OH. The local business offers top-quality, dependable, and affordable cleaning services. Based in Dayton, the team offers residential cleaning work to Beavercreek, Centerville, Englewood, Huber Heights, Tipp City, and Troy. Learn more about their carpet cleaning online and book your appointment today at (937) 521-6243.