Carpet Cleaning and Indoor Air Quality: What You Need to Know

Why Floors Affect the Air You Breathe

The largest horizontal surface in a building—the floor—is also the biggest reservoir of contaminants. Dust, allergens and chemical residues settle on carpets and hard floors and get kicked back into the air during daily activities. Indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, largely because floors collect pollutants that become airborne.

How Floor Cleaning Impacts Indoor Air Quality

• Pollutant reservoirs: Carpets trap dirt, dust, pollen and microbes; high‑traffic areas accumulate the most contaminants.

• Re‑suspension of particles: Walking, sweeping or improper vacuuming releases trapped contaminants back into the air.

• Cleaning chemicals: Traditional cleaners often contain ammonia, chlorine and synthetic fragrances that emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These fumes can irritate lungs and exacerbate allergies.

• Humidity and ventilation: Inadequate ventilation during cleaning allows pollutants and vapours to linger in the air. Properly ventilating the room by opening windows or using fans helps disperse gases and accelerates drying.

Health Risks from Poor Indoor Air Quality

Respiratory issues, headaches, throat irritation and worsened asthma or allergy symptoms can result from poor floor maintenance. Harsh cleaning chemicals and improper techniques stir up contaminants, creating a cloud of airborne pollutants that persist for hours.

Best Practices for Healthier Air

• Vacuum with HEPA filtration: High‑efficiency vacuums capture fine particles that standard vacuums miss.

• Choose low‑VOC cleaning products: Opt for plant‑based or eco‑certified cleaners that release fewer harmful chemicals.

• Ensure adequate ventilation: Open windows and run fans during and after cleaning to dissipate fumes and moisture.

• Maintain regular cleaning schedules: Regular cleaning breaks the cycle of pollutants settling and being re‑released.

• Use professional maintenance: Certified technicians employ equipment and techniques that minimize airborne contaminants, such as HEPA‑filtered vacuums and low‑moisture methods.

Conclusion: Indoor air quality isn’t solely about air purifiers—it starts with the floors. By investing in proper floor and carpet maintenance and choosing eco‑friendly products, you create a healthier environment for employees, clients or family members. Clean floors mean cleaner air.