Minimising Allergies in Your Home

Carpet does more than just add warmth and comfort to a room — it can actually contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Whether you choose wool carpet or synthetic carpet, regular care and maintenance can help reduce allergens in your home.

Here’s something you might not expect: Carpet acts like a filter, trapping airborne dust, pollen, and other allergens in its fibres until they’re removed through vacuuming. Unlike hard flooring, where dust can easily become airborne again, carpet helps keep particles grounded, a major win for allergy and asthma sufferers. In fact, research by the German Allergy and Asthma Association found that wall-to-wall carpet can cut airborne dust levels by up to half compared to hard floors.

Other benefits? Carpet also insulates better than many other surfaces, helping to maintain a pleasant room temperature and reduce energy costs, while also softening noise in busy households.

To keep your space as healthy as possible:

• Vacuum regularly using a quality vacuum suited to your carpet type.

• Dust and mop hard surfaces to prevent particles from circulating.

• Clean shelves, skirting boards, and furnishings frequently.

• Choose flooring that supports your lifestyle and health needs.

Want to learn more about how carpet supports wellness at home? Visit the Carpet Institute of Australia for expert insights and guidance on allergens, air quality, and choosing the right carpet.

Window treatments are another area of the home which can easily become a haven for dust. Generally speaking, any type of blind or curtain that is not easily cleaned are more problematic for those suffering allergies. Traditional blinds made from fabrics, particularly those with complicated swags, headers and folds catch and house dust readily, while straight Holland blinds (also known as roller blinds) and Venetians and shutters which can be wiped down are easier to manage. If you are sold on drapes, consider simpler details, such as loop or minimal pinch pleat headers to try and minimise the dust concerns. Also, think of the types of fabrics you do select. Heavier fabrics, such as velvets and damasks capture dust more so than sheers and linens.

Your nearest Flooring Xtra store will be able to provide guidance on which concept would best suit your home or business.

Similar to curtains, the fabric is often the culprit here. While fabrics provide a luxurious and comfortable element to the furniture we sit on, it also captures dust more so than leather for example. If allergies are an issue in the home try leather for sofas and chairs, they can always be accessorised and softened with fabric cushions and throws which are more easily cleaned. Another option if you are not sold on leather is to have sofas with removable slipcovers which makes cleaning a lot easier. Moulded plastic and timber chairs also make for fashionable dining chairs without dust issues.

There are other elements of home maintenance which also affect the level of allergens and dust mites in the home. Ensure surfaces such as floors, shelves, artwork frames and architraves are dust-free by vacuuming and dusting regularly. Mop hard flooring as well post-vacuuming to eliminate dust completely. Invest in good vacuum technology and make sure to enquire what the best possible product is for you and your situation.

Ventilation is also important. Choose days which are not so breezy to allow fresh air into the home. Natural ventilation through door and windows is so beneficial to the homes energy while breaking through any stale smells. Ensure the air-conditioning and heating filters are kept constantly clean and serviced in your home. This will minimise any additional airborne dust from being filtered back into the room.

Consider your pets in the home. While pets are a welcome inclusion to any home, perhaps they may be better kept in areas where there are more hard surfaces than plush carpets. This way any shedding of the loose hair will be easily maintained and removed.

Hopefully, these few tips will lessen the impacts of allergies in the home and make it a more pleasant haven for those allergy sufferers!

Visit one of our Flooring Xtra stores and we will happily show you your options across laminate flooring, timber flooring, carpet, floor rugs and more-and offer our advice to ensure you have ‘A fabulous flooring experience’ and hopefully less sniffling and sneezing.

What is a pet-friendly rug?

A pet-friendly rug is a must in a home with dogs and cats! Look for attributes such as washable features, anti-stain qualities and non-loop pile fibres (for pet paws to get caught in).

What is laminate flooring?

Laminate flooring is constructed from several layers to create the appearance of timber or stone. Laminate floors utilise cutting edge photographic technology to simulate the grain, stain and texture of wood at a fraction of the price. It’s highly resistant to scratches, dents and stains, with the top layer, known as the wear layer, usually made of a aluminium oxide or melamine resin which enhances it’s durability.

Is hybrid flooring easy to install?

Hybrid flooring can be installed as a floating system. It’s recommended that hybrid flooring be installed by a flooring installation professional, this way you can sit back and relax on your new flooring without worry. Flooring Xtra has installation teams across each store.

In some states of Australia, the building regulations for Vinyl Planks, Vinyl Tiles and Hybrid flooring varies. Meaning they may not be suitable for areas requiring water resistance, such as bathrooms and toilets. We advise to always ask your local Flooring Xtra store for the correct advice regarding the local regulations. We also advise to follow the manufacturer’s recommended installation instructions and guidelines, not following the instructions could make the product not fit for purpose, for the area it’s being installed into and void your product warranty. To ensure you get the appropriate product for those areas, please contact your local Flooring Xtra store.