Carpet Underlay Benefits: Anti-Microbial

Microbes are microscopic organisms that can be found pretty much everywhere. The overall classification includes viruses, bacteria and other pathogens that can make humans sick as well as positive organisms like probiotics. According to Medical News Today “Microorganisms are ever-present in our environment and in our bodies, and many are known to be beneficial — or even essential — for our health. However, some are pathogens and can makes us very sick, and they can sometimes even kill us.” Furthermore, “Scientists from NSF International — which is based in Ann Arbor, MI — testedTrusted Source 22 households in Southeast Michigan. They found that dishwashing sponges contained the highest number of microorganisms, followed by toothbrush holders, pet bowls, kitchen sinks, coffee reservoirs, kitchen countertops, stove knobs, pet toys, and toilet seats. In the study, the authors found yeast and molds, bacteria in the coliform family (including Escherichia coli), and Staphylococcus aureus on many of the surfaces tested.”

With this in mind, it is important to do what we can to reduce the bad microbes that exist within our everyday environments. This is generally done by cleaning, but as not all surfaces can be cleaned, it is a good idea to include components in your design that actively work to reduce the microbes within your home. In terms of flooring this would mean selecting a carpet underlay – such as our Stepsupreme luxury foam underlay – that can assist in creating a healthier environment within the home. Stepsupreme and similar underlays achieve this through an inbuilt anti-microbial layer which assists in the reduction of microbes in the space that they are installed in as the layer prevents survival of these organisms on the underlay. This added protection also helps prevent the growth of mould and mildew and can assist in making your space kinder to those with asthma and/or allergies.

Note: Protection against negative microbes can also include the installation of a moisture barrier or mould and mildew inhibiting underlay beneath hard floors within the home.