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Question from Karrie P. in Delaware: There are so many “power-loomed” polyester and polypropylene rugs being touted as “family friendly.” What’s the deal with polyester and polypropylene rugs? Are they a safe choice for our families?
MOM DETECTIVE ANSWER: Thanks, Karrie, for your question about these rugs. Depending on the material, carpets and rugs can pollute the air in our homes. Considering the average person spends about 70 to 90% of their time indoors, paying close attention to indoor air quality is smart.
Rugs made from polyester and polypropylene are essentially plastic fibers derived from petrochemicals. Various chemicals are used in their manufacturing process, and once in a home, the carpets can release toxic fumes such as formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
VOCs are nasty compounds; they’re associated with eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system, among other health impacts. These chemicals enter our bodies through inhalation and can also be absorbed through the skin.
Synthetic carpets, including those made from polyester and polypropylene, are usually also treated with various chemicals to prevent things like bacteria, mold, or fungi, as well as fires. Flame retardants are typically endocrine-disrupting chemicals. In recent years, there has been increasing focus on firefighters’ exposure to burning flame retardants, and their health impacts. Carpets or rugs labeled as “stain-resistant” are often treated with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are linked to a wide range of human health effects—and are best avoided.
Consumers understandably gravitate toward polyester and polypropylene rugs because they are high-performing and may not be aware of their potential indoor air pollution risk. But there’s another concern too. They can also shed unwanted microplastics in our homes—and our lungs.
Microplastics are small plastic particles, less than five millimeters in length. Petrochemical materials, like these carpets and rugs, are a significant source of indoor microplastics. Other sources include clothes, furniture, and curtains. In a study published in 2021, researchers in Australia found almost double the amount of microplastic fibers (from polyethylene, polyamide, polyacrylic, and polyester) in homes where carpet was predominant, in comparison to homes without carpet.
Children, who tend to spend time playing on the floor, are primarily exposed to these microplastics by ingesting household dust. Airborne microplastics can also be inhaled, depending on particle size; they have been detected in human blood and lung tissues. While several studies have calculated human exposure to microplastics, their health risks require further research.
So, to answer your question, no, I don’t consider polyester and polypropylene rugs to be particularly family-friendly.
Luckily, there are safer, natural alternatives to conventional carpets and rugs that emit little to no harmful VOCs.
As an alternative seek out carpets or rugs made of responsibly sourced natural fibers:
- Wool
- Jute
- Sisal
- Organic cotton
Avoid any rugs, carpets, or rug pads advertised as water- or stain-resistant, as this usually indicates the presence of potentially toxic chemical additives. Keep in mind that even if a rug is made of natural fibers, this does not guarantee the backing is safe. Rug and carpet backings are typically made of synthetic rubber, which can also pollute indoor air. Better backing options include jute or wool.
Reach out to a rug seller or manufacturer if you’re unsure whether harmful chemicals were used in the production process. If you do not receive transparent answers, I’d opt for purchasing from a different company with nothing to hide.
EPA suggests shopping for carpets that:
- emit no VOCs or are low-VOC.
- use safer dyes, backing, and adhesives.
- use recycled materials to reduce the need for petrochemical-based raw materials.
- have end-of-life take back programs from the manufacturer.
EPA also recommends using several private sector standards/ecolabels when purchasing carpet or any services that involve the use or installation of carpet.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does technically regulate rugs and carpets, but current laws don’t require manufacturers to test products for most chemical hazards. Mostly, CPSC relies on voluntary standards developed by industry groups and has limited capacity for ensuring compliance.
Regardless of the material you choose, carpets and rugs are good at trapping dirt, dust, and pollutants. It’s important to vacuum regularly. Pollutants can become airborne if the carpet or rug is agitated, through typical use, and even vacuuming, which is why using a HEPA filter is important.
Opting for wood or tile floors with low-VOC finishes is an easy low-tox option, if you’re considering new flooring.
And it’s always a good idea to take your shoes off at the door. This is a simple way to avoid tracking unwanted pollutants into your home too.
TELL BIDEN AND EPA: PROTECT PEOPLE FROM THE DISASTROUS PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY