Almost everyone recognizes the smell of new carpeting, but not everyone realizes that inhaling that smell could be hazardous. Chemicals used in the production and installation of commercial and residential carpeting can be toxic, and often continue to outgas into the air for weeks or even months after installation.

These outgasing chemicals are volatile organic compounds or “VOCs” which vaporize into the air. Some VOCs commonly found in carpets, carpet backing and adhesives include benzene, styrene, toluene, xylene, and formaldehyde. Long-term exposure to these chemicals has been linked to certain types of cancer, endocrine disruptiion and birth defects.

Suggested Products

Earthweave –Makes a line of organic carpets and offers non-toxic backing and adhesive materials.

Natural Home Products – Offers eco-friendly wool carpet, naturally dyed area rugs, bamboo, natural cork and sustainable hardwood flooring.