Formaldehyde - Is It in Carpet?
Is Formaldehyde in Carpet Causing a Problem with Indoor Air Quality?
Formaldehyde is not used in manufacturing carpet. However, it is found in other home furnishings and household products. Trace amounts may be absorbed by carpet or any other textile product.
Statement from The Carpet and Rug Institute:
"The Carpet and Rug Institute has conducted surveys of the carpet industry to determine if formaldehyde is used in the carpet manufacturing process. The survey results confirmed that no raw materials with formaldehyde additives were being used.
"Carpet as it leaves the final manufacturing process does not contribute formaldehyde to the environment. However, it is not uncommon to detect trace amounts of formaldehyde in both the outdoor and indoor environments since it is a naturally occurring substance. The primary source of formaldehyde is the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons, most notable through automobile emissions, etc.
"As an additional confirmation of the absence of formaldehyde in carpet, the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Indoor Air Quality Testing Program (Green Label/Green Label Plus) specifically monitors this chemical. Carpet may absorb formaldehyde from the air; therefore, tests of carpet from the marketplace may indicate a presence of formaldehyde."
Are there any dyes or chemicals used in manufacturing carpet which may be potentially dangerous?
All dyes and chemicals used in the manufacturing process have been thoroughly tested and found to be safe in the carpet delivered to customers. They help to enhance carpet’s beauty, durability, and stain resistant capability. These are essentially the same dyes and chemicals used in clothing.
Are some carpets better than other for indoor air quality?
Carpet is available in a wide variety of styles made from yarn of different fiber types, and what is best for a particular situation is largely a matter of personal preference. There is no difference between natural and synthetic fibers relating to indoor air quality. Both kinds should be given proper care and maintenance, and both will provide years of comfort and enjoyment.
If new carpet is not considered harmful, what could cause the allergic reactions some people have experienced?
The most likely cause is airborne dust and biological particulates. Many people are allergic to dust, and its presence may be widespread, resulting from numerous sources.
Fine particles accumulate in, under, and around carpet and other furnishings. When old carpet is removed, large concentrations of particulates, such as dust, dust mites, and other allergens, are often released. Even new homes or offices can be the source of a problem, since significant amounts of dust from the construction process can irritate the eyes and upper respiratory tract.
While scientific evidence clearly demonstrates that carpet is safe, we recognize the possibility that a small group of people might be unusually sensitive to a variety of indoor products. We recommend everyone follow the proper installation, maintenance, and cleaning instructions included in this information.
How can consumers best protect their indoor environment?
The problems that many people may be experiencing with indoor air quality involve a combination of factors which are complex in nature. One of the best solutions, however, is simple: ventilate the home or building regularly. Windows and doors should be left open periodically to release stale air and dissipate some particulates which build up in closed environments.
Of critical importance is the condition of our heating/air conditioning systems, as inefficient or faulty systems are the primary sources of poor indoor air quality. Replace filters regularly and have your ventilation system inspected to verify that it is in good working order.
To control fungi, such as mildew, repair leaks promptly, as water damage to building materials and furnishings promotes the growth of these organisms.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of carpet will also help to remove trapped particulates and prevent build-up. When installing new carpet, vacuum the old carpet and keep the entire area clean during the installation process to minimize the level of particulates.
It is prudent to keep the area well ventilated during installation and for several days thereafter.
Also, those who believe that they are unusually allergic or hypersensitive should consider avoiding the area during and immediately following installation or any other reconstruction.