Wool Rug Woes

For those of you following my clean living journey, you know I've been on a mission to transform my home into a non-toxic sanctuary. Part of this transformation involved cleaning my 100% wool rugs, and what I found was quite disturbing.

Discovering the Dangers Underfoot

While cleaning, I discovered that the underlayments beneath my carpets were made from recycled plastic. Although recycling is often praised for its environmental benefits, plastics should not be part of a non-toxic home. These recycled plastic pads can introduce a range of harmful chemicals into your living space.

The cleaning also revealed significant dust accumulation, including dried skin, dirt, and various outdoor pollutants. This dust can easily become airborne and be inhaled by family members, potentially leading to inflammation, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues. It was clear that the dust and toxic underlayments needed to be addressed.

Health Risks of Recycled Plastic Underlayments

Recycled plastic pads can emit microplastics and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which harm your health. These substances can disrupt hormones, trigger allergies, and have been linked to cancer and other severe health problems. Continuous exposure to these toxins is a serious concern for any household.^[1]

What Clean Living Insights Recommends

To mitigate these risks, here are my recommendations:

1. Switch to Felted Wool Pads: Replace recycled plastic pads with 100% felted wool alternatives. Felted wool pads are free of microplastics, toxins, and harmful adhesives. They also do not emit VOCs, making them a safer option for your home.
2. Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean your rugs and underlayments to prevent dust buildup and minimize exposure to airborne particles.
3. Opt for Natural Materials: When updating your home, choose natural materials such as wool rugs and non-toxic underlayments to reduce the risk of chemical exposure.

Ensuring a Non-Toxic Home

Creating a non-toxic home involves being vigilant about the materials and products you use. Replacing toxic rug pads with felted wool and maintaining a clean environment can protect your family from harmful substances and ensure a healthier living space.

Your home should be a place of comfort and safety. Following these steps, you can create a non-toxic sanctuary supporting your family's health and well-being.

1. Campanale, Claudia, et al. “A Detailed Review Study on Potential Effects of Microplastics and Additives of Concern on Human Health.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 17, no. 4, Feb. 2020, p. 1212. PubMed Central.