Mumbai Airport Removes Dusty Carpets After Chef Vikas Khanna’s Complaint; Simple, Affordable Ways to Clean Carpets at Home

Renowned chef Vikas Khanna’s complaint about dust-laden carpets at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has led to swift action, with airport authorities removing large sections of old carpeting. The development has sparked a wider conversation on public hygiene, respiratory health, and the importance of regular carpet maintenance—both in public spaces and at home.

Khanna recently shared a video from the airport thanking officials for addressing the issue. The footage shows workers removing worn-out, dusty carpets to reveal a clean and aesthetically designed floor underneath.

Health Concern Triggered the Complaint

Chef Vikas Khanna revealed that a few weeks ago, upon landing at Mumbai airport, he suffered a severe asthma attack, forcing him to immediately use an inhaler. He also noticed an elderly woman nearby struggling to breathe while pulling her luggage.

Concerned by the situation, Khanna attributed the breathing distress to dust-filled, poorly maintained carpets, which can pose serious health risks—especially for people suffering from asthma, bronchitis, or other respiratory conditions. Following his complaint, airport authorities acted within a month to resolve the issue.

Importance of Regular Carpet Cleaning

The incident highlights how unclean carpets can become reservoirs of dust, allergens, and pollutants, turning them into hidden health hazards. While carpets enhance the visual appeal of a space, lack of timely cleaning can lead to serious hygiene issues.

Experts say regular maintenance is essential not only in public areas but also in homes, where carpets often go unnoticed for long periods.

Easy and Low-Cost Ways to Clean Carpets at Home

Cleaning carpets at home does not always require expensive professional services. Several simple, kitchen-based solutions can help keep carpets fresh and hygienic:

1. Regular Vacuuming
Use a vacuum cleaner to remove surface dust and allergens. For spills, avoid aggressive scrubbing. Instead, gently blot the stain with a tissue or clean cloth to prevent fibre damage.

2. For Stubborn Stains
Lightly rub the affected area with a damp cloth for a few minutes to loosen the stain. Then prepare a thick paste using warm water and baking soda. Apply it to the stain, leave it for about 30 minutes, and wipe it off with a clean cloth.

3. Act Quickly on Spills
Immediate action prevents stains from settling deep into the fibres. Rubbing too hard can worsen the damage.

Care Tips for Expensive Carpets

For premium or delicate carpets, experts advise against frequent home washing. Methods such as steam cleaning, dry cleaning, or professional shampooing are safer options. Excessive vacuuming or soaking can weaken the fabric and shorten the carpet’s lifespan.

A Reminder Beyond the Airport

While Mumbai airport’s prompt response has been widely appreciated, the episode serves as a reminder that cleanliness is closely linked to public health. Whether in airports, offices, or homes, maintaining carpets is not just about appearance—it is about ensuring a safe and breathable environment.