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Recently, I attended a conference on “indoor air pollution” and was presented with a report on the Environmental Protection Agency’s latest findings on contaminants within homes and offices.

A great deal of research has been done by Dr. Michael Berry of the EPA on “sick building syndrome”. Dr. Berry has found many sources for these environmental contaminants. I’ve mentioned some of them below:

Heating and Air Conditioning. Airborne pollutants and dust mites are drawn into your home and released through air ducts. Many of these aggravate allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Household Pets. Residue from urine and feces left behind breed harmful bacteria. Oils from animal coats promote odors and attract fleas and ticks.

Food and Beverage Spills. Fruit juices, milk and soft drinks allow germs to breed and entice cockroaches and other pests into your home.

Water Damage. Water splashed from sinks, tubs, showers and toilets causes mold and mildew to grow beneath the carpet.

Outdoor Contaminants. These migrate into the home or office through foot traffic – oils, pesticides, tar, gum, fertilizer, metals, glass, sand, etc…

Carpet Backing. Latex glues and other adhesives used in manufacturing and installation have caused documented health hazards to occupants of various buildings.

Dr. Berry responds to these problems in his report stating, “I have reached the conclusion that carpeting and fabrics not cleaned and properly maintained by trained individuals have the potential to cause a variety of health problems inside the building environment.”

“We have only begun to really become aware of the contents of carpet dirt and house dust. Cleaning, especially through hot water extraction, improves environmental conditions and health protection.”

When one thinks of “biological contamination” many thoughts may come to mind. Among the most common are disease causing germs and bacteria growth. Rarely are these thoughts linked to dirty carpet and fabric.

Carpet is a positive indoor filtering system and collection center. When properly maintained, it contributes to a healthier indoor environment. We must understand that carpet and upholstery must be kept clean for health reasons and not merely for the sake of appearance.
Manufacturers recommend a professional maintenance program by a certified company at least twice per year to keep your carpets sanitized and looking fresh.

Doug “The Rugman” Watson can be reached at (951) 927-8281.


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*Is Your Carpet Affecting Your Health?* By: Doug “The Rugman” Watson Recently, I attended a conference on “indoor air pollution” and was presented with a report on the Environmental Protection Agency’s latest findings on contaminants within homes and offices. A great deal of research has been done by Dr. Michael Berry of the EPA on “sick building syndrome”. Dr. Berry has found many sources for these environmental contaminants. I’ve mentioned some of them below: Heating and Air Conditioning. Airborne pollutants and dust mites are drawn into your home and released through air ducts. Many of these aggravate allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions. Household Pets. Residue from urine and feces left behind breed harmful bacteria. Oils from animal coats promote odors and attract fleas and ticks. Food and Beverage Spills. Fruit juices, milk and soft drinks allow germs to breed and entice cockroaches and other pests into your home. Water Damage. Water splashed from sinks, tubs, showers and toilets causes mold and mildew to grow beneath the carpet. Outdoor Contaminants. These migrate into the home or office through foot traffic – oils, pesticides, tar, gum, fertilizer, metals, glass, sand, etc… Carpet Backing. Latex glues and other adhesives used in manufacturing and installation have caused documented health hazards to occupants of various buildings. Dr. Berry responds to these problems in his report stating, “I have reached the conclusion that carpeting and fabrics not cleaned and properly maintained by trained individuals have the potential to cause a variety of health problems inside the building environment.” “We have only begun to really become aware of the contents of carpet dirt and house dust. Cleaning, especially through hot water extraction, improves environmental conditions and health protection.” When one thinks of “biological contamination” many thoughts may come to mind. Among the most common are disease causing germs and bacteria growth. Rarely are these thoughts linked to dirty carpet and fabric. Carpet is a positive indoor filtering system and collection center. When properly maintained, it contributes to a healthier indoor environment. We must understand that carpet and upholstery must be kept clean for health reasons and not merely for the sake of appearance. Manufacturers recommend a professional maintenance program by a certified company at least twice per year to keep your carpets sanitized and looking fresh. Doug “The Rugman” Watson can be reached at (951) 927-8281.