Low VOC Area Rugs

Because I have chronic fatigue syndrome, I want my home to be low in toxicity in every way possible. So I did a search on low VOC area rugs and here are some of the resources and information I found...

Martha Stewart: Healthy Carpet & Rug Tips ...

"Synthetic carpets contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) -- which account for that "new carpet" smell -- that may cause health problems ranging from allergies to nausea. And virtually all synthetic varieties are backed with a latex mix containing styrene, a possible human carcinogen." ~Martha Stewart

Natural Area Rugs: Maintaining a Healthy Home...

"If you really want to lower VOC emissions in your home and you are getting a new carpet, ask the installer to air the carpet out before bringing it in your home. Plan to leave the house for several hours after it's been installed and ventilate your home during and after installation, Instead of using VOC emitting glue, ask the carpet installers to tack down the carpet.

A true VOC vigilante will want to use carpet or rug made from sustainable and natural materials. Sisal rugs and bamboo rugs are all examples of healthy carpet choices. Other excellent alternatives to synthetic carpeting are jute rugs and seagrass area rugs. Look for area rugs that have natural jute or latex backing."

FLOR: Low VOCs... 

"Most FLOR styles meet or exceed the Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label Plus standards for low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). Low VOCs are important because of their harmful impact on indoor air quality."

Natural, Non-Toxic Area Rugs

Could Your Rug Make You Sick?