Carpets can be 10 times dirtier than toilet seats

Research by sofa specialists ScS has found that carpets can contain 10 times the number of bacteria found on toilet seats. The research also discovered that nearly half of people in the UK admit to never cleaning their carpets. In another survey by BISSELL, 41% of people admitted to not washing their carpets.

It is perhaps unsurprising that people keep their bathrooms cleaner than their carpets, as dirt is easier to spot in the former than the latter. Carpets in offices were found to be cleaner than domestic ones as most businesses regularly clean their carpets. Bedroom carpets are found on average to be twice as dirty as living room ones.

Dirty carpets are a breeding ground for disease-causing microbes. Cleaning experts recommend regular vacuuming, and deep cleaning of carpets at least annually. This will prevent the buildup of mould, yeast and bacteria, and can be done by carpet cleaning professionals with specialist equipment.

Dr. Lisa Ackerely, a carpet expert, commented:

"This research is of concern as unwashed carpets can become homes to bacteria and germs and in particular dust mites, which can put some people at greater risk of asthma, eczema and perennial allergic rhinitis caused by allergies to dust mite faecal matter.“

The Head of Acquisitions at ScS, Dale Gillispie said that the company's research was “shocking” and those carpet owners should make sure that their carpets are kept clean.

Carpets are popular in Wrexham, Chester and North Wales homes and businesses. They look good and will last a long time provided they are cleaned regularly.