Sometimes the question arises as to whether or not the odor new carpet may have is harmful to people or pets. The answer is no.

There have been myths about carpet, particularly that its emissions might be a health problem. Some of these myths have been created by flawed test methods and experiments.

Test results from laboratories, such as some animal tests, have not been validated or replicated by government, independent or industry laboratories. Replication of a test method and duplication of the test results are the means of determining credibility in scientific testing. Victor Kimm of the EPA announced at a hearing before the subcommittee on Environment, Energy, and Natural resources of the U.S. House of Representatives, on June 11, 1993, that in its own extensive testing “we did not independently replicate the severe toxicity described by Anderson Laboratories. In fact, we did not produce any convincing signs of even mild toxicity attributable to carpet.”

Formaldehyde is common in the air and is a part of many products, even our clothes. Referral to formaldehyde as a component of carpet is incorrect, since formaldehyde has not been used in the manufacturer of carpet in over 13 years and, even then, a very miniscule, small amount was used in the finishing of some carpet.

Carpet is made primarily of the same materials found in clothing and other everyday fabrics; i.e., polyester, nylon, olefin fibers, latex (synthetic rubber) and polypropylene (olefin) fabric backing.

Additionally, in the past, the public has sometimes inaccurately linked new carpet with the effects of poor indoor air quality. While extensive research has shown that there is no link between carpet and ill-health effects, industry manufactures are committed to providing only the most environmentally-responsible products. The industry has taken may steps to ensure carpet’s positive role in the indoor environment.

Get a Brochure from The Carpet and
Rug Institute

800-882-8846

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CRI encourages open communication with the general public on all issues concerning carpet, including environmental issues. Industry manufacturers distribute literature on indoor air quality and other topics along with their products.