Carpet cleaners, which come in the form of liquids, foams, and powders, are effective at dissolving stains and lifting dirt from carpet fibers. However, many commercial formulations contain chemical compounds that can pose a hazard if they are not used or stored properly. Understanding the specific ingredients and the routes through which they affect human and animal health is necessary to mitigate risk and make informed choices about product use and safety precautions.
Key Chemical Components That Pose Risk
Carpet cleaning solutions rely on various chemicals to achieve cleaning effects. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a significant concern because they easily become gases at room temperature, contributing to indoor air pollution. Solvents like butoxyethanol and perchloroethylene are common VOCs used to dissolve tough, oily stains. Butoxyethanol, a type of glycol ether, is known to irritate the respiratory system upon exposure.
Strong acids and bases are another group of hazardous components, used as pH modifiers to enhance cleaning efficacy or neutralize residues. Chemicals on either extreme end of the pH scale can cause chemical burns upon direct contact with skin or eyes. Petroleum distillates, effective at dissolving grease, are also frequently found in stain removers and can release strong fumes.
Surfactants, which lift dirt, can be problematic if not rinsed completely from carpet fibers. Residual surfactants can trap dirt and may cause skin irritation or be harmful if inhaled by sensitive individuals, such as children or pets. Certain aromatic compounds, such as naphthalene, are sometimes included as deodorizers, but exposure can affect the central nervous system and damage red blood cells. Formaldehyde, sometimes used as a preservative, is another chemical associated with long-term health concerns.
Acute and Chronic Health Effects
Exposure to the chemicals in carpet cleaners can trigger a range of immediate or acute health reactions. Inhalation of VOCs and strong fumes can irritate the sensitive mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. For individuals with asthma, breathing in these vapors can significantly worsen symptoms. Immediate exposure can also result in non-respiratory symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
Direct contact with concentrated solutions, especially those containing strong acids or bases, can cause immediate and severe injury. Skin exposure may result in redness, itching, burning, or chemical dermatitis. Splashes to the eyes can lead to irritation, burning, and in severe cases, significant damage or blindness. Accidental ingestion of these liquids can lead to internal damage, gastrointestinal distress, and poisoning.
Repeated, low-level exposure from chemical residues left in the carpet is associated with chronic health effects. Long-term inhalation of VOCs is a concern because some compounds, such as perchloroethylene and formaldehyde, are classified as possible carcinogens. Chronic exposure is also linked to damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Children and pets are especially vulnerable to these chronic effects because they spend more time close to the carpet surface, increasing their exposure risk.
Minimizing Exposure During and After Cleaning
To reduce the risk of exposure, always ensure the area is well-ventilated when using carpet cleaning products. Open windows and use fans to draw fumes out of the room during the entire cleaning process. This constant air movement helps to dilute the concentration of VOCs and other chemical vapors that are released. Wearing protective gear, such as chemical-resistant gloves and safety goggles, is an important barrier against skin and eye contact with concentrated solutions.
Usage Instructions
Always read and follow the manufacturer’s dilution instructions precisely. Using a higher concentration than recommended does not necessarily clean better but dramatically increases the chemical residue left in the carpet. After cleaning, keep children and pets out of the treated area until the carpet is completely dry and the space has been fully aired out. Residual moisture can harbor active chemicals, and allowing traffic on wet carpet increases the chance of skin contact or ingestion.
Storage
All unused cleaning chemicals must be stored securely in their original containers. Ensure they are kept out of the reach of children and away from pets.
Immediate Action in Case of Accidental Exposure
Immediate action is necessary to minimize harm before seeking professional medical advice. If an individual inhales fumes and develops respiratory distress, they should be moved to fresh air immediately. For skin contact, quickly remove any contaminated clothing and rinse the affected skin area with running water for 15 to 20 minutes. If the chemical gets into the eyes, flush them with running water for the same duration.
If a carpet cleaner product is swallowed, it is important not to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical professional, as some chemicals can cause more damage. Call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 immediately to speak with a poison expert. Be prepared to describe the product involved, the amount consumed, the victim’s age and weight, and any symptoms or first aid already administered. If the person is unconscious, having seizures, or having difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.