Vacuuming doesn't help allergies

Vacuuming does practically nothing to relieve allergy sufferers from the irritations of carpet dust mites, new research reveals. Carpets are a major reservoir for allergens and vacuum cleaning is one of the most common ways of managing the problem, but scientists now say the benefits are limited.
The study by the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research in Sydney found that hoovering removed dust mite allergen from carpets in an "inconsistent and incomplete manner".
Vacuuming worn carpet was even more ineffective, as it just moved the mites around rather than removing them. Researcher Jason Sercombe tested the presence and distribution of house mites in different carpets before and after vacuum cleaning. He said his results explain why many trials designed to reduce indoor allergens - some even going so far as to install new furniture - have had limited success.
"Although soft furnishings such as beds contain more concentrated sources of allergy-causing protein produced by house dust mites, the large size of carpet means it is likely to contain a larger total amount of allergen than other items in a home," Mr Sercombe said.
"Allergen avoidance measures that rely solely on vacuum cleaning are likely to be of limited success unless more rigorous cleaning than standard home vacuuming is performed."
The study also showed the type of vacuum cleaners with rotating brushes in the head removed more dirt and allergen from the carpets than those without. However, rotating brushes may serve to kick dust up into the air if the suction component of the cleaner is not operating properly. Overseas studies have found that vacuum cleaners with two or three layer bags performed better than those with a single layer bag, Mr Sercombe said. He said there were many vacuum cleaners on the market that claimed to be suited to allergy sufferers.
"The most important aspect to look for is HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) filtration, which is finding its way into some very affordable models," the researcher said.
[Int J of Hyg & Enviro Health]