What is hiding in your carpet?

Why is cleaning your carpets so important? Want to know what is hiding in your carpet?

Check out this infographic:

In text:

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that themselves are harmless. The problem stems from the fact that they produce large quantities of microscopic waste. This waste is harmful because it can cause a range of respiratory problems.

Bacteria

Pets and the soles of our shoes bring bacteria in the home. The carpet creates the perfect conditions for the growth of the bacterial colonies, especially if it’s cleaned infrequently. According to a study carried out in the UK, the soles of our shoes carry bacteria like E. coli and members of the pneumonia family.

Allergens

Pollen and other allergens can easily get stuck in the carpet fibers. Seasonal allergens enter the house through the windows and they’re also carried on our shoes. If you don’t take your shoes off when entering the house, chances are that you’re depositing these seasonal allergens in the carpet.

Chemical Traces

Some carpets are treated with chemicals and they bring these substances to the home even when brand new. Chemical traces have also been found on the soles of shoes. Some of these chemicals result in a very specific smell. Research suggests that a few of the traces are carcinogenic.

Mold

People that live in humid parts of the world are more likely to have mold in their carpets. The fibers make it possible for mold to develop deep inside the fabric. Many people are unaware of the fact because there’s no strange smell or any other symptom.

Pet Hair and Dander

Pet owners have to deal with this problem every single day. Fur sheds and it’s often deposited in the carpet. Even if the carpet is cleaned on a daily basis, some of the hair will still get trapped between the fibers. This could be a serious problem for people suffering from allergies and respiratory conditions.

Mud and Dirt

Once again – entering the house with your shoes on is the main reason why mud and dirt hide in the carpet. Dirt and earth can also get caught on the hem of pants and deposited on the carpet.

Skin Flakes

This sounds nasty but it’s a normal part of life. The average human being sheds 1.5 million microscopic skin flakes every single day. These are scattered throughout the home and often deposited in the carpet. The problem with skin flakes is that they create good conditions for bacteria to grow.

Bugs

Fleas and bed bugs are some of the bugs (read more here) that could find a brand new home in your beautiful carpet.

Food and Drink Residue

Foods and drinks spilled on the carpet need to be cleaned immediately. Taking care solely of the surface stain is insufficient. The traces that penetrate the fibers are perfect food for bacteria and bugs. It’s very important to clean spills immediately after they occur. Such measures will keep the carpet clean, prevent it from getting a bad odor and reduce the risk of harmful little critters finding a home inside.