Carpet for Allergy Sufferers: What to Choose and Avoid

Understanding Allergens in Carpet

What Causes Allergies from Flooring?

The most common carpet-related allergens are dust mites, which feed on dead skin cells and thrive in warm, humid environments. Carpet fibres can also trap pollen, pet dander, and fine particles that affect indoor air quality. In some cases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) - emitted from certain adhesives, backings, or treatments - can irritate the respiratory system, especially in people with asthma or chemical sensitivities.

Why Fibre Type Matters

Wool is naturally hypoallergenic, its structure doesn’t encourage dust mite growth, and it helps regulate humidity, making it less welcoming to allergens. It also traps dust and pollen at the base of the pile, where they can be removed through regular vacuuming, rather than circulating in the air.

Synthetic fibres like solution dyed nylon (SDN) are also good choices for allergy sufferers when paired with low-VOC manufacturing and proper cleaning. These fibres are resistant to mould and mildew growth, and many are treated to repel stains, making them easier to keep clean. However, lower-cost synthetics or certain backings may release more VOCs, so it’s worth looking for products certified as low-emission.

Hypoallergenic Carpet Materials and Treatments

Wool vs Nylon: What’s Safer?

Wool is naturally hypoallergenic and a great choice for people with allergies or asthma. Its unique fibre structure discourages the growth of dust mites and helps regulate moisture, making it harder for mould and mildew to develop. Wool also acts like a natural air filter, trapping allergens in the base of the pile until they’re removed through vacuuming, rather than allowing them to circulate in the air.

Solution dyed dylon (SDN) is also a strong option for allergy-conscious households. While it doesn't have the same natural properties as wool, it resists mold and mildew growth and is easy to clean, which helps keep allergen levels low. High-quality nylon carpets also hold their appearance well, even with frequent vacuuming, which is key to maintaining an allergen-free environment.

Anti-Microbial and Low-VOC Options

Some carpets are treated with anti-microbial finishes that help prevent the growth of bacteria, mould, and mildew - an extra safeguard for allergy sufferers. These treatments can be especially useful in humid climates or for households with pets.

If you’re sensitive to chemicals, look for carpets certified as low-VOC, meaning they release fewer volatile organic compounds into the air. This is particularly important during and immediately after installation, when emissions are at their highest.

For the healthiest choice, pair low-VOC certification with naturally hypoallergenic or easy-care fibres:

Wool - naturally resists bacteria and mould, with no need for heavy chemical treatments.

Solution Dyed Nylon (SDN) - durable, mould-resistant, and widely available with low-VOC certification and anti-microbial options.

Godfrey Hirst are incredibly proud to have products officially certified Declare® LBC Red List Free. Each Declare® label is compared against a list of worst-in class materials, better known as the Red List. Chemicals on the Red List can pose an increased risk of:

• Polluting the environment
• Bio-accumulation of contaminants progressing up the food chain
• Negative health implications for factory personnel, construction industry workers and building occupants

Maintenance Tips to Reduce Allergens

Vacuuming Frequency

Thorough and frequent vacuuming, particularly in high traffic areas, is important for prolonging the life of your carpet and enhancing its appearance. After your carpet is laid, vacuum to remove surface lint, dust and fluff. Thereafter, continue to vacuum thoroughly at least weekly and more frequently in high traffic areas.

Three vacuum passes for light soiled areas is recommended, with five to seven passes for heavily soiled areas. Vacuuming against the natural pile direction first lifts the pile, helping to unsettle and remove dirt and grit while reducing matting. Then, vacuum in the direction of the pile to achieve a uniform finish.

HEPA Filters and Cleaning Products

Choose a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which traps 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns - including dust mites, pollen, and mould spores - preventing them from being released back into the air. When spot-cleaning, use cold water and immediately apply it to the stained area. Repeat treatment above until no stain is evident on the cloth or towels used to press dry the area.

Should the stain remain, using a clean white cloth or sponge, treat with a mixture of 1 teaspoon of laundry detergent and 1 teaspoon of white vinegar in 1 litre of warm water. Rinse with cold water, repeating treatment until no stain is evident on cloth or towels.