Can Hypoallergenic Flooring Reduce Your Allergy Symptoms?

If you suffer from allergies, you may have taken steps to remove the obvious sources of allergens in your home. But, what about your flooring? The flooring you choose from your home can have a definite impact on your allergy symptoms.

You're probably already aware of the potential for carpeting to harbor allergens such as dust and dust mites. These tiny dust mites that take up residence in your beautiful carpeting can produce up to three hundred eggs during their life time. This means lots more little dust mites to exacerbate your sneezing and runny nose. Fortunately, you do have an alternative. There are various types of hypoallergenic flooring that provide a viable alternative to conventional carpeting for allergy sufferers:

Hypoallergenic flooring: Ceramic tile

This is hard surface is one of the most hypoallergenic of all flooring possibilities. In fact, ceramic flooring is the number one choice of those who suffer from allergies. The hard, slick surface provided by ceramic tile reduces its ability to collect dust, mold, or other allergens. The biggest drawback to this form of flooring is that it can be cold and uncomfortable against bare feet which may restrict its use to certain rooms. Glass tiles are also available but these tend to be more expensive than its ceramic counterparts.

Hypoallergenic flooring: Cork

Cork flooring is another environmentally friendly source of flooring for allergy sufferers. Cork's surface characteristics prevent dust absorption which can precipitate allergy symptoms. Plus, cork is quite durable and comfortable against bare feet. In addition, it doesn't contain toxic substances found in some flooring and carpeting, making it an ideal choice for allergy sufferers who are health and environmentally conscious.

Hypoallergenic flooring: Linoleum

Linoleum flooring provides another smooth surface which doesn't promote accumulation of dust or allergens. If you suffer from allergies and plan to install linoleum flooring, use a low-VOC glue to attach the flooring. Otherwise, you could suffer from an allergic reaction to the adhesive.

Hypoallergenic flooring: Wood