New Study Proves Vacuuming Ineffective at Removing Dust Mite Allergens
The study, done by the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, found that vacuuming was a highly ineffective means of avoiding allergens because the manner in which a vacuum removes the allergens is very inconsistent and incomplete.
Where worn carpets are concerned, the allergen risk is even greater because vacuuming, instead of removing the allergens, simply changes the distribution of the dust mites throughout the carpet, rather than actually removing it equally. Some allergens are removed, but most are just spread around.
Being that vacuuming is the most common method used to control dust mite allergen, this news is highly important to allergy sufferers because carpets are a major source of common household allergens. The most common way to remove those allergens is to vacuum.
Mr. Sercombe, one of the researchers at the institute, had this to say: “The results also help to explain why many trials aimed at reducing people’s exposure to indoor allergens – some even going so far as to install new furniture – have had limited success. Although soft furnishings such as beds contain more concentrated sources of allergy causing protein produced by house dust mites (known as Der p 1), the large size of carpet means it is likely to contain a larger total amount of allergen than other items in a home. Allergen avoidance measures that rely solely on vacuum cleaning are likely to be of limited success unless more rigorous cleaning than standard home vacuuming is performed.”
Vacuums that had rotating head brushes did remove more allergens and soil from the carpets than those without, but were still ineffective because these types of brushes can actually kick up dust into the air when the suction does not work properly, which occurs often.
This study showed that after several years of use in homes, carpets contained large amounts of the Der p 1 allergen and that the allergen was found throughout the carpet, with no pattern in regards to depth or location.
The study involved the comparison of a variety of used carpets before and after a vacuum cleaning. Two styles of vacuum cleaners were used. Sercombe says “Overseas studies have found that vacuum cleaners with two or three layer bags performed better than those with a single layer bag, and the maintenance of the cleaner and integrity of seals and gaskets were important factors in effective cleaning. There are many vacuum cleaners on the market that claim to be suited to allergy sufferers. The most important aspect to look for is HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) filtration which is finding its way into some very affordable models.”
To help reduce the allergy and dust mite content in your home, you can do the following:
Wash blankets, sheets, pillowcases, and other bedding and stuffed animals in hot water weekly (Special anti-dust mite additives really do no better than regular laundry in hot water with regular detergent.)
Use fragrance-free and dye-free laundry soaps, such as All Free & Clear
Avoid any items made from non-washable fabrics, like sheep skin.
Use dust-mite resistant covers on all pillows and mattresses.
Wash pillows regularly in the same manner as the bedding.
Make sure all stuffed and fabric toys are washed regularly in hot water as well.
Avoid carpeting if at all possible. Wood and linoleum flooring is the best choice for allergy sufferers.
Clean curtains and draperies regularly.
Wipe clean all dusty surfaces regularly.
Keep fabric-upholstered furniture clean or just avoid it wherever possible.
If you are using carpet, be sure to use other cleaning methods weekly, such as carpet-cleaning with hot water. There are many affordable models of carpet cleaners available on the market.
News Source:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070522155643.htm
Science Daily “Vacuum Cleaning Is Ineffective At Removing Dust Mite Allergen, According To Study”
