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I have an allergy
to natural latex. Will new carpet cause a problem for me?
The backing latex
on broadloom carpet is not a natural latex. The latex that bonds carpet
fibers and the backing fabrics together is made from a synthetic latex,
"SB latex" or styrene butadiene latex. SB latex is a synthetic,
water emulsion made from compounds different from those found in natural
latex. Latex allergies are the results of protein enzymes in natural
latex. SB latex used in carpet does not cause the allergic, dermatological
reaction associated with natural latex.
Why has my allergist
recommended removing carpet and other textiles from my home?
One of the
approaches allergists use in allergy treatment is allergen avoidance in
the belief that the removal of all possible places where allergens are
held will reduce allergic symptoms. This is a misconception. Although
allergen (dust, pollen, mold spores, etc.) may be present in carpet,
carpet is not a source of airborne allergen that produces allergic
symptoms.
Will removing my
carpet reduce my allergic symptoms?
No. Removing carpet
will not reduce the number of airborne allergens that produce allergic
reactions; in fact, removal of carpet may actually increase the amount of
airborne allergen, because other surfaces do not offer the capability of
holding allergen. Removing allergen materials from a carpet is as easy as
regular vacuuming and routine cleaning.
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