While at first it may seem like a good idea to remove your carpet if you have allergies, this accomplishes the opposite. Carpeting acts like a filter; catching dust, pollen, allergens, and the like. Just like filters need to be cleaned/replaced in order to work, you must clean your carpet. If you remove the filter, what catches all the bad stuff?

Anyone with hard floors knows that you must sweep often (sometimes daily!) to control the allergens, dust, pollen and dirt. Or, you may have some kind of filtration system that will help control these things and cause you to not have to clean almost every day.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. To keep your allergies at bay, professional cleaning institutions recommend these tips for a fresh, pollen-free indoor environment.

• Keep windows closed — If needed, use air conditioning, which filters, cleans cools and dries.
• Keep entryways clean, create a shoe regimen and use walk-off mats — Sweep, dust or vacuum outside entryways to avoid tracking pollen and debris into your home. Wipe your feet on the doormat when entering your home, leave shoes by the door and use walk-off mats from your outside entries into your living areas.
• Use high-quality vacuum equipment — A HEPA-type filter bag and brush agitation are more important considerations than the vacuum's price. A good vacuum should easily remove dust and particles before they become embedded in the carpet. Replace bags when 2/3 full.
• Have furnishings professionally cleaned annually — We, as well as independent cleaning consultants, recommend hiring reliable qualified professionals for deep extraction cleaning of carpets, area rugs, upholstered furniture, pillows, mattresses, day beds and window coverings.