Which Carpet Solutions are Unsafe for Children and Pets?

Every carpet and area rug eventually require professional cleaning due to spills, pet hair, and general wear and tear. However, many homeowners worry toxic ingredients might occur in professional carpet cleaning solutions.

Several hazardous chemicals are not safe for small children or pets. In addition, they can create poor indoor air quality. Potentially harmful ingredients may contain compounds that produce strong artificial fragrances and fumes, such as formaldehyde.

In fact, toxin-free and eco-friendly aren’t just buzzwords. Environmentally friendly cleaning concerns are top-of-mind for parents who want to protect the health of children and pets.

Unfortunately, there are several carpet solutions that are unsafe for children and pets.

Ammonia
Ammonia occurs naturally in our environment and we are exposed to it at one time or another. However, when it comes to cleaning carpets, ammonia may degrade carpet fibres, strip away stain guard finishes, and cause permanent damage to wool rugs.
Furthermore, high levels of ammonia in an unventilated living space can irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts. It can even cause chemical burns.

Very Low Moisture (VLM) Cleaners
Beware of dry shampoos, powders, and foams used in encapsulation carpet cleaning. When incorrectly applied, this type of product may leave behind a residue that is not only easily inhaled, but potentially toxic to children and pets.

Deodorizing Powders
Again, powders and dusts may be easily inhaled and irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts. Carpet deodorizing powders often contain irritants in fragrances as well.
In truth, fragrance is a branded term that permits manufacturers to hide ingredients that may be toxic and cause allergic reactions. Fragrance-free is the way to go.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Certain carpet cleaning chemicals can emit VOC gases. VOC’s also cause eye and skin irritation. They can be a serious health hazard, leading to kidney and central nervous system damage. Definitely avoid carpet cleaning solutions that emit VOC gases.

Scotchgard
Carpet stain guards may contain potentially dangerous ingredients. Although the company that produces Scotchgard changed its toxic formula to make it safer for the environment (and people), the new formula is still questionable.
Perfluorobutane sulfonate occurs in the new solution, but it can still enter the bloodstream and may cause detrimental health issues. Moreover, extra solution is required to achieve the same results as the past formula.

Luckily, we have research that reveals dangers and toxins that may lurk around our homes, endangering the lives of people and pets.
Nanotechnology helps to increase the performance of fabric protectors without the harmful effects of earlier chemical cleaners. Eco-friendly fabric protectors are free of these harmful substances.

Additionally, indoor air pollution may cause nausea, coughing, fatigue, and asthma attacks. It pays to be mindful of the products applied in the cleaning of your carpets.

Avoid hazardous carpet cleaning solutions and keep your family and furry friends protected. Premier Carpet Cleaning in Nanaimo only uses child and pet safe chemicals. Our cleaning solutions are hypoallergenic as well. Premier’s top-quality carpet cleaning makes your home sensationally clean and safe for the entire family.

Call us today at (250) 758-5177.