According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America one out of four, or 60 million Americans, suffer from asthma and allergies. Approximately 75 percent of all allergy sufferers have indoor and outdoor allergies as their primary allergy. How do you create a healthy environment for you and your family?

One of the most effective ways to create a healthy home is to get rid of carpeting, which houses a number of allergy triggers including dust mites, pet dander and mold spores which are very hard to remove. Vacuuming only cleans the carpet minimally and can distribute these triggers into the air and throughout the house. Shampooing the carpet cleans the surface, but usually does not get down to the base of the carpet or the padding.

Hardwood floors are one option but they require delicate care so as not to damage their surface. A family with pets and kids can take its toll. Vinyl flooring is another option that is easy to clean, but subject to nicks and tears. In addition to looks and durability, another feature to consider is the health aspect of these various floorings.

Most carpets and rugs are made of synthetic fibers and use synthetic backing and adhesive for installation, which means they are not especially ecologically friendly. Vinyl and hardwood flooring, although not as hospitable to allergens, require maintenance and cleaning with detergents, waxes and refinishing materials that can be toxic.

A better option is Marmoleum Click, an all-natural flooring made from linseed oil, wood flour, rosins and limestone that has antibacterial properties that prevent breeding of many microorganisms.

Marmoleum is a perfect choice for an active home. Because the color is solid throughout the entire material, any scratches easily blend. It is a simple-to-clean hard surface floor, but is warm to the touch -- good for crawling toddlers or sprawling teenagers. The floor also adds beauty to any room of the house, so you can have a healthy home that is also stylish.

Homeowners can choose from 18 colors to create a custom floor that expresses their unique style. Ecologically friendly pigments are used to create the floor's beautiful, vibrant colors. Available in easy to install 1-by-3-foot planks and 1-by-1-foot squares, Marmoleum Click can be installed over existing flooring or sub flooring.

Best of all, upkeep is simple. Dirt and spills will not be absorbed into fibers as they would with carpet, so basic dusting and damp-mopping are all that's required to keep the floor clean. That's good news for busy families who want to stay healthy.

Hospitals have used Marmoleum for years, and it is recommended by many medical professionals for anyone with allergies, asthma or other respiratory disorders. For more information contact Forbo Floorng Systems at (800) 842-7839, or visit the company's Web site at www.themarmoleumstore.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent