Today’s average home has at least one rug, even if the carpet isn’t the main flooring. Rugs are an excellent way to add color, texture, and personality to a room. Gaining popularity are the modern wool rugs in 8x10 sizes.
However, rugs made from particular
materials can also be dangerous to a room’s air quality. Some rugs, like
polyester, are made from material formed from petrochemicals. These are plastic
fibers manufactured from toxic chemicals. Once released in the home, the
chemicals release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde breathed
in by those in the environment.
What’s the problem with VOCs, and why is
polyester such a poor choice of carpet in a home? We’ll explain those answers
and suggest ways you can choose a safer alternative next.
The
Downside of Polyester
Polyester has been popular for decades as
a cheap synthetic material. When you want affordable clothes, sheets, or
carpets, buying polyester is tempting without looking at what you’re paying
for.
Materials like polyester and
polypropylene are fire- and microorganism-treated with petrochemicals. This
label might sound good, but those protectants release toxic fumes called
volatile organic compounds.
VOCs irritate the linings of the nose, eye, and
throat, causing irritations similar to allergies but significantly more
hazardous. Once inhaled or absorbed through the skin’s pores, the chemicals get
into the body, damaging the central nervous system, kidney, and liver. So, if your
carpet is marketed as stain-resistant, that’s not always a good thing. They’re
likely covered in per- and polyfluoroalkyl endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Yes, these carpets work well if you’re
looking for affordable, durable, and stain-resistant carpets. However, the
microplastics and toxic fumes they release into the air can become an expensive
health condition. If you have little ones or pets close to the floor for
extended periods, they are even more susceptible to inhaling airborne toxins.
Safer
Alternatives to Polyester
Armed with this knowledge, you’ll likely
look at your polyester rug a little differently now. If you’re considering
replacing your old, toxin-filled rug or saying no to those that you were
thinking of buying, it’s a wise thought, and you have plenty of other options!
Depending on your price range and the
textures you prefer, there are various carpets designed from responsibly
sourced, natural fibers. If you love the soft, cloudy feel of clouds, organic
cotton and wool are affordable possibilities. Bamboo, jute, and sisal are also
made from sustainable sources but can be a little pricier.
Don’t forget to check the backing on the
rug before you buy it. The fibers may be natural, but the backing could be made
from synthetic materials, which also pollute the air.
Check
the Label, and Have Fun Shopping
As you’re shopping, watch for labels that
look attractive but actually warn you that the carpet is toxic, such as stain-
or water-resistant. Safe carpets use natural dyes and recycled materials and
have no or low-VOC labels.
Your next rug can be a wonderful way to
enhance your room, but it shouldn’t make you worry that you’re accidentally
polluting the air and harming your family. Opt for a carpet sourced from
all-natural materials, and you get all the benefits without the dangerous side
effects.
