Carpets! The most important part of your cleaning session. The purpose with which you bring them in, will not be successfully achieved if your carpets are not clean, smooth and cosy. They are one of the prime properties that maintain a clean and healthy environment within your home or business premises. But, you know the biggest concern raising with it nowadays? – The safety. Most people have concerns in mind, whether the carpet cleaning chemicals we use for DIY Carpet cleaning are safe? – The answer is no. Not totally safe.
This is what we are discussing today in this article. It is true that carpet cleaning involves chemicals, and they can be harmful to your health, but there are ways you can reduce or avoid them. In this article, we will look at such hacks and discuss how we can stay safe from carpet cleaning chemicals.
Table of Contents
Types of Carpet Cleaning Methods
Before we understand the health risks associated with carpet cleaning chemicals, we need to understand the approaches to carpet cleaning. Two methods are normally popularly used.
- The first one is Dry carpet cleaning. This approach of carpet cleaning involves chemical powders or carpet cleaning solvents that are applied on carpet and post it rest and process on stains, we used to vacuum to make it clean.
- The other is Carpet steam cleaning, which is also popular as hot water extraction. In this process, we use hot water in combination with detergents. Once both are mixed in suggested and ideal proportions, the mixture is injected into the carpet and then extracted with all the dirt and debris.
Now the point is, both these methods involve chemicals to clean it. It completely depends on the terms and the proportion it has been used that could either only clean your carpet or can also harm your health. That’s exactly what we will discuss in the next section.
Common Chemicals in Carpet Cleaners
The ingredients in many carpet cleaning products can include a mix of detergents, solvents, and fragrances.
Let’s check on some common chemicals found in these products:
- Perchloroethylene: A solvent used in dry cleaning that can cause dizziness, fatigue, and even neurological damage if inhaled over long periods.
- Naphthalene: Often derived from coal tar, this chemical is known to damage the central nervous system and is classified as a possible carcinogen.
- Ammonium Hydroxide: Found in many cleaners, this chemical can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract if inhaled.
- Butoxyethanol: A solvent that can affect the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system if it’s absorbed through the skin or inhaled.
- Disinfectants and Deodorizers: These products often contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which can irritate the skin, nose, and throat.
Short-Term Health Effects of Carpet Cleaning Chemicals
Many of the chemicals used in carpet cleaners can lead to short-term symptoms if you’re exposed to them in high amounts or over a prolonged period. Some of the most common short-term health effects include:
- Respiratory Issues: Breathing in fumes from these cleaning agents can irritate the lungs, especially in people with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma.
- Skin Irritation: If you come into direct contact with the cleaning solution, it can cause redness, itching, or burning sensations on your skin.
- Eye Irritation: Chemicals in the air may also cause your eyes to feel watery, irritated, or burning.
- Headaches and Nausea: Prolonged exposure to certain chemical vapours can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
These effects are usually temporary and subside once you’re no longer exposed to the cleaning agents. However, it’s always wise to ensure good ventilation during and after carpet cleaning to minimise these risks.
Long-Term Health Risks of Carpet Cleaning Chemicals
While short-term exposure to these chemicals is generally manageable, long-term or repeated exposure can lead to more serious health problems. Some of the potential long-term health risks include:
- Cancer: Chemicals like formaldehyde and naphthalene are linked to cancer, particularly with repeated, long-term exposure.
- Liver and Kidney Damage: Some solvents, like butoxyethanol, can accumulate in the body and cause damage to organs like the liver and kidneys over time.
- Neurological Damage: Certain chemicals, like perchloroethylene, can affect the central nervous system, leading to memory loss, tremors, and other cognitive issues after prolonged exposure.
Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to these long-term effects.
Are Eco-Friendly Carpet Cleaners Safer?
In response to growing concerns about chemical exposure, many companies now offer “eco-friendly” or “green” carpet cleaning products. These cleaners use natural ingredients and are generally free from harmful chemicals like VOCs (volatile organic compounds). They’re less likely to cause allergic reactions or respiratory issues, making them a safer option for homes with children or pets.
However, just because a product is labelled “eco-friendly” doesn’t mean it’s completely free of potential hazards. Always read the label and understand the ingredients, as some green cleaners may still contain allergens or irritants, albeit in lower concentrations.
How to Minimise Health Risks of Carpet Cleaning Chemicals?
If you’re concerned about the potential health effects of carpet cleaning chemicals, there are some ways you can take to reduce your risk:
- Opt for Professional Cleaners: Hiring professional carpet cleaners is the best way that can help minimise the risk since they know how to use the chemicals safely and efficiently.
- Choose Eco-Friendly Products: Look for carpet cleaners that are certified as non-toxic or eco-friendly. They may contain fewer harmful chemicals, reducing your exposure.
- Ventilate Your Space: Open windows and doors during and after cleaning to allow any lingering fumes to escape.
- Spot Clean with Mild Solutions: For small spills or stains, use a mild detergent or baking soda and vinegar solution instead of harsh chemicals.
- Wear Protective Gear: If you’re cleaning the carpet yourself, wear gloves and a mask to reduce the risk of direct contact with chemicals.
- Test for Allergies: If you or your family members are prone to allergies or respiratory issues, do a patch test on a small area of the carpet and monitor for any reactions.
Conclusion
While carpet cleaning chemicals can pose health risks, proper precautions like choosing eco-friendly products and ensuring ventilation can minimise exposure. For a safer and hassle-free cleaning experience, consider professional help. Dirt2Neat Carpet Cleaning offers reliable, eco-friendly carpet cleaning services across Sydney and nearby areas. With expert care and non-toxic solutions, we ensure your home stays clean and healthy. Contact Dirt2Neat today for a free quote and experience a healthier clean!