Is worn down carpeting and a disinigrating carpet pat hazardous to health?

Question

We just moved into an apartment and after unpacking everything noticed that when our daughter's danced or jumped on the carpeting, a white powder-dust poofed from the carpet and filled the room with dust. This happens in every room. The carpet is very worn down and old. What is this white dust and could it be hazardous??

Answer 1

It is probably not anthrax powder. It might be flea powder from a previous dog problem. Try vacuuming the heck out of it. It can't be very desirable.

Answer 2

it is likely to be some powder like Carpet Fresh, which makes you wonder what the last tenants were like....maybe trying to cover odors all the time??

If at all possible, I would replace it. But, if you can't, get a really strong vacuum and if it still happens, try steam cleaning......

Answer 3

Call the landlord and complain, ask him if you should call the Health Department. Tell him you are afraid it might be something that may harm your kids, or maybe former tenants had a meth lab. I guarantee you he will volunteer to clean the carpets. They should have been clean between renters anyway.

Answer 4

It may be old carpet powder. Yes if you cannot eat off your floor then it is not healthy. If that dust was on your dinner, would you still eat it, What you breath in is still considered eating.

Answer 5

it's more than likely just dirt. dirt accumulates if you don't vacuum often/well enough. if it bothers you call a carpet steamer company and explain your problem. see if they can correct it and the cost. then decide if it bothers yo that much. it's almost guaranteed the landlord will not correct the problem, but you can ask. if you don't ask I guarantee they won't fix it.