Mold in the carpet not only looks horrible but poses serious risks to allergy sufferers creating an environment that worsens symptoms like wheezing and a runny nose. It is essential to get rid of carpet mold to have clean carpet and pleasant indoor air quality.
In this blog, we will learn simple steps to eliminate carpet mold using effective solutions such as vinegar, baking soda, and commercial products. Read on to learn more.
6 Steps to Get Rid of Carpet Mold
Step 1: Inspection
Start the process by thoroughly inspecting the carpet and surrounding areas to identify the severity of mold. Look for visible signs such as discoloration, dark spots, or musty odor. You can also use a flashlight to check hidden areas, including under furniture. Detecting the mold allows you to treat it effectively.
Step 2: Ventilate the Area
Once inspection is done and you have identified the mold, ventilate the area to allow proper air circulation. Open windows and doors to improve airflow and reduce humidity, blocking mold growth. Use fans or dehumidifiers to enhance ventilation to speed up drying. It allows less exposure to mold and enhances the elimination process.
Step 3: Sprinkle Baking Soda to Remove Moisture
Now, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the mold to absorb excess moisture and reduce odors. Let it sit for 10 – 15 minutes (overnight in some cases where moisture is excess) and then vacuum it. Remember to discard residue directly into the dustbin to avoid further mold spread.
Step 4: Treat Mold
While cleaning the mold, vacuuming is not enough. Treat the mold with solutions like vinegar, antifungal sprays, or steam clean. Here is a brief about each option.
⇒ Vinegar: Vinegar is one of the effective and affordable options to kill mold. Spray it on the mold and scrub the carpet with a stiff brush. Blot-dry the carpet with a dampened cloth in clean water.
⇒ Antifungal Sprays: Use the readymade antifungal spray to kill mold spores and remove them from the carpet. Check the label for instructions before using it as it can discolor the carpet. Spray the solution if safe, scrub and blot it with clean water.
⇒ Steam Clean: If nothing works, try steam cleaning the carpet. Rent a steam cleaner from the nearby hardware shop, read the manual, and clean the mold. Remember do not overwet the carpet, as it can regrow mold in the carpet.
Step 5: Dry the Carpet
After cleaning the mold, let the carpet dry completely. Use dehumidifiers or fans to accelerate the drying process. It is essential to dry the carpet before using it to avoid re-soiling and regrowth of mold.
Step 6: Vacuum the Area
Once dry, vacuum the carpet to remove the remaining mold spores, fluff up the fibers, and revive its charm. It will rejuvenate the carpet and make it ready for use again.
Tips to Prevent Carpet Mold
- Use a dehumidifier regularly to keep moisture level balanced(Around 30% to 50%), preventing mold growth.
- Vacuum your carpets regularly to remove dust and organic compounds from carpet fiber, which can lead to mold growth.
- Keep good ventilation in your home to circulate air, preventing moisture buildup.
- Prevent dust and moisture from entering the home by placing rugs and doormats in high-traffic areas and doorways.
- Opt for periodic professional carpet cleaning to keep carpets clean and fresh all the time.
How Can Professionals Help Get Rid of Carpet Mold?
Mold in the carpet can severely affect the carpet fiber and indoor air quality, which is why carpet cleaning is essential for allergy prevention and enhancing the environment. The steps in this blog are your go-to guide to getting rid of carpet mold. However, when DIY is all good for surface-level elimination, professional carpet cleaning is essential to deep clean the carpet to remove any trace of mold and mildew.
At Beverly Hills Carpet Cleaners, we have the perfect solution to revive your carpet irrespective of contamination, from dirt to stains and mold growth, we have a skilled technician who can treat them all effectively and precisely.
Call us for an effective solution to eliminate carpet mold and revive your carpets.
FAQs
Q.1 How to identify mold in my carpet?
⇒ To identify the mold in your carpet, look for dark stains, discoloration, musty odor, or damp areas. Mold generally thrives in high-humidity areas and may be hidden beneath the carpet padding.
Q.2 When to call professionals for mold removal?
⇒ If the mold spread is in a large area or persists even after DIY, we recommend calling professionals to ensure thorough removal and prevent recurrence.
Q.3 Can I get rid of carpet mold with household remedies?
⇒ Yes. You can use household remedies like vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide to treat small mold patches. However, severe infestations require specialized cleaning products or even professionals.
