Eye exposure may result in burning, pain, redness and corneal damage. Inhaling acid fumes can cause sore throat, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Severe exposure can lead to pulmonary edema, although this is not likely to occur with most household cleaning products.
The symptoms of ingestion of carpet and upholstery cleaners include mouth and throat irritation, swelling of that same mucosae, nausea and vomiting, and a moderate to severe drop in blood pressure--think collapsing on the floor.
In conclusion, sleeping in a room after carpet cleaning can be safe if certain precautions are taken. The type of cleaning method, adequate drying time, and proper ventilation are key factors that determine the safety of the indoor environment and an effective method.
Carpets, especially synthetics, emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) for an extended period. This off-gassing can persist for up to five years but decreases significantly after installation. The most noticeable off-gassing occurs in the first few months, characterized by that distinct "new carpet" scent.
Some traditional cleaning chemicals used for hot-water extraction include potentially hazardous ingredients such as acid rinses and solvents such as 2-Butoxyethanol. These ingredients can cause eye and skin injuries, and the fumes are potentially harmful as well.
Carpet cleaning, while essential for maintaining a clean and fresh living space, can contribute to wear and tear on carpet fibers over time. The vigorous scrubbing and high-pressure cleaning methods used by some carpet cleaning companies can cause damage to the delicate fibers, reducing the carpet's lifespan.
Chemicals in cleaning solutions can damage or burn your skin as well as causing respiratory problems if you don't protect yourself correctly. Make sure that you wear gloves and a mask if you are using a strong acidic carpet cleaner.
If you're especially sensitive to scents, a bed with strong off-gassing odors may cause unwanted symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness. Individuals with respiratory issues, such as asthma or allergies, could also experience irritation of the airway and difficulty breathing.
Toxic Emissions
In the last several years, there have been hundreds, perhaps thousands, of instances in which people became ill after new carpeting was installed in their homes, work- places, or schools. Commonly reported symptoms in- clude eye, nose, and throat irritation, rashes, and fatigue.
Just to recap what we've learned so far. There are a lot of factors that determine drying time, however on average your carpet will take from 6-12 hours to dry after a professional hot water extraction cleaning like that done by Zerorez and about 2-4 hours after a dry cleaning.
Carpet cleaning chemicals should not be directly inhaled but are generally safe with minimal exposure. You can rest assured that carpet cleaning is not a process that you need to worry about.
Strictly precautionary and for your protection, please do not let children or pets on damp carpets or fabrics. Do not walk barefoot or in socks, or touch wet carpet or fabrics. 24 hours recommended. Use booties or clean soled shoes to walk on damp carpet.
In conclusion, carpets can smell after cleaning due to residual cleaning solutions, bacteria and mold growth, or chemical reactions. To remedy the situation, consider ventilation, baking soda, white vinegar, or professional cleaning. With the right approach, you can have fresh, clean carpets that look and smell great.
Best practices for safety after carpet cleaning
First, allow sufficient drying time, ideally, wait at least 6 to 8 hours before re-entering the room, and aim for 24 hours for complete dryness.
Baking soda works like magic. All you need to do is to spread a thin layer of baking soda on the urine spot and leave it overnight or for at least six hours. Next, vacuum the area thoroughly. It's essential to make sure there are no remains of baking soda.
On page 3 of the User's Guide it plainly states: "Never put descaling , aromatic, alcoholic or detergent products into the steam cleaner, as this may damage it or make it unsafe for use." White vinegar is considered a "descaling" product.
However, the off-gassing process doesn't end after a few days. Depending on the carpet's materials and the conditions in your home, VOCs can continue to release for weeks or even months. Factors like room temperature, humidity, and airflow can affect how quickly VOCs dissipate.
Several earlier studies have shown the presence of more dust and allergens in carpets compared with non-carpeted floors. At the same time, adverse effects of carpeted floors on perceived indoor air quality as well as worsening of symptoms in individuals with asthma and allergies were reported.
After a new carpet is installed, it goes through a period of off-gassing, which is the process of these chemicals being released. Typical reactions to new carpet VOCs and PFCAs include headaches, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, and asthmatic reactions.
Formaldehyde can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, even at low levels for short periods. Longer exposure or higher doses can cause coughing or choking. Severe exposure can cause death from throat swelling or from chemical burns to the lungs.
Breathing small amounts of gasoline vapors can lead to nose and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion and breathing difficulties. Symptoms from swallowing small amounts of gasoline include mouth, throat and stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and headaches.
It is recommended that you try to stay off the freshly cleaned carpets until they are dry – about 6 hours. If you MUST walk over your damp carpet before it is dry use EXTREME caution.
Using your carpet cleaner safely
Make sure to turn all switches on the cleaner to the 'off' position before unplugging. Avoid splashing any of the carpet cleaner detergents on your skin. If you do come into contact with the solution, make sure to wash it off immediately. If you feel any irritation, seek medical advice.
To sum it up, if you're concerned about the safety of carpet cleaning chemicals, don't be. Reputable carpet cleaners use safe and non-toxic chemicals. Companies such as Carter's Carpet Restoration in El Dorado Hills, CA is a great company if you're nearby and need a professional carpet cleaning services.