Significance

• According to Air Quality Sciences, new carpet can emit dangerous vapors from the solvents used to manufacture the carpet as well as from latex glues and backings used for installation that can be harmful to infants. New carpet tiles with PVC backing are highly sensitive to humidity and may contain plasticizers that react with home humidity, which releases odors that can also trigger breathing problems in infants.
  
  

Facts

• According to the Washington Toxics Coalition, undeveloped immune systems and smaller body size make infants more susceptible to harm from toxic carpet emissions. Common symptoms reported to the Consumer Products Safety Commission due to new carpet include rashes; eye, nose and throat irritation; and fatigue.
  
  

Hazards

• The chemical credited for the "new carpet smell" is derived from a compound named called 4-phenyl cyclohexene (4-PC). The Washington Toxics Coalition states that the compound is an eye and mucous membrane irritant and can trigger respiratory complications as well as cause skin rashes.
  
  

Considerations

• Consider purchasing new carpet that is accepted by the Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label Program. According to Air Quality Sciences, carpet accepted by the program must meet low-emitting criteria for indoor air quality.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• If you must install new carpet with an infant at home, request that the manufacturer or store to allow the carpet to air out for at least 72 hours before shipping. Ventilate your home before and after carpet installation before exposing your infant to new carpet.