Are Hardwood Floors Healthier Than Carpet?

Hardwood flooring vs. carpet has been highly debated for years. They are easily the most common types of flooring, but is one healthier than the other? 

The answer is not a simple yes or no for one over the other. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you’ll want to do your research. Here is some information to help you make the best decision for you and your family:

The Case For Carpet

Carpeting can lock allergens in its fibers, holding them hostage until they are vacuumed up. 

Even when vacuuming, it is hard to get everything, as debris easily settles into carpet. Some would argue that is exactly what makes them the healthier option. Allergens trapped in the carpet means they aren’t in the air, right? 

Wrong. Every time you or someone else walks across the floor, you are kicking up millions of tiny particles into the air, exposing yourself and others to allergens.

If you are an allergy sufferer, you know that allergens don’t necessarily need to be in the air to trigger your sneezing and coughing. If allergies are severe, you may prefer an option that is easier to keep clean.

Healthier Hardwoods?

Hardwood floor enthusiasts hail the superiority of hardwoods over carpet. With its smooth, shiny texture, it is easy to see when cleaning is needed.

Cleaning is quick and easy. A simple wet wipe gets the job done and allows you to move on, without those pesky particles triggering a reaction. 

Hardwood does not require a deep cleaning as often as carpet, making it much easier to maintain.

Moisture & Mold

Hardwoods can be sensitive to moisture and dings, but will still last a long time. Spills are easy to spot and even easier to clean. 

A lot of moisture can be detrimental to hardwoods, however. It is best to keep them out of bathrooms and laundry rooms, where tile may be a better choice.

Mold needs moisture, food, warmth, and darkness. Starting to sound familiar? While carpet fibers themselves do not act as a food source for mold, contaminants in the carpet do. So if there is a spill that is not taken care of correctly, you risk respiratory issues due to the presence of mold.

What’s the Verdict?

Flooring is really a matter of preference. 

What style suits your home best? How much time do you have to devote to proper care in order to keep you and your family healthy? After reading the information above, which do you think is healthier?

Quality Hardwood Flooring Experts in Maryland & Virginia

If you’ve decided on hardwood floors for your home, call Atlas Floors, Inc.! We are a family-owned business that has been in the hardwood floor game since 1983. We know that hardwoods may be the best choice for the health of your family – that’s why we have them in our own homes! Let us help you choose from solid, engineered, bamboo, and exotic hardwood flooring. If you don’t see what you want in our showroom, we are happy to custom order exactly what you need. Make an appointment to visit us today!