Area rugs, carpeting, and vaccines

Lowe's and Home Depot both recently banned all area rugs and carpets treated with PFAS, which are a group of chemicals that make rugs (and lots of other things) stain-resistant. ⁠
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The problem with PFAS is that we absorb them and they impair our immune systems-- higher levels in the blood are associated with more asthma and allergies in kids. And, they are associated with a suppressed response to the tetanus and flu vaccines in both children and adults. In short, PFAS inhibit the body's ability to create antibodies. ⁠
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With two big box stores banning these chemicals at the same time as COVID vaccine development was underway, attention was drawn to the possibility that PFAS would also inhibit the vaccine's effectiveness. While it's still too early to know, banning these substances is a step in the right direction! ⁠
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When big companies take responsibility for things like this, it means the average consumer doesn't have to be as educated, and educated consumers don't have to be as hyper-vigilant about what they're buying. ⁠
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Hot tip: if you're considering getting something with "performance" fabric, this sometimes means its been treated with PFAS. Double check the ingredients. ⁠Rugs made with natural materials like wool, hemp, and cotton are always a better bet!⁠