How to Prevent Mold in Carpets

Posted in Mold, on September 30, 2019

Mold can grow in carpets if the carpet gets wet and remains wet for more than 3 to 4 days. Carpet may be dry to the touch on top, however, the underlayment may be wet.

There are many ways a carpet can get wet. There could be a roof leak, window leak, plumbing leak, appliance or tub overflow, basement foundation leak as well as steam cleaning that could introduce moisture into a carpet. No matter how the carpet got wet, time is ticking and the type of mold can have serious health implications.

The main problem now that the carpet is wet, is time. Time will determine if mold will grow. The longer the carpet remains wet...the more mold may grow. Mold spores are all around us. Mold spores are part of nature and are found indoors and outdoors. If mold spores land on damp areas that are cellulose mold growth will start.

Carpets these days are usually synthetic. However, household dust gets trapped inside the carpet which supplies the food source for the mold to grow.

Steps to Prevent Mold in Your Carpet

Step 1. If there is standing water you will need to remove the water with a wet/dry vacuum. It will be difficult to dry out carpet if there is excessive or standing water.

Step 2. The furniture or contents in the area of the water loss should be moved to a dry area.

Step 3. The carpet should be pulled back. The underlayment or underpad should be cut out and removed. The underpad is usually a sponge type product which will retain water for a long period of time leading to mold and bacteria.

Step 4. The carpet should be dried with heat. This will allow the moisture to evaporate.

Step 5. A dehumidifier should be set up to control the humidity in the air. The lower the humidity is in the air the faster the carpet will dry out.

Step 6. Blowers or fans should be set up to blow over the water damaged carpet. Air movement will also allow the water damaged carpet to evaporate.

Step 7. Make sure the carpet is dry in about 2 to 3 days. Should the carpet remain wet it will need to be replaced.

Step 8. Inspect the carpet. If there are stains, the carpet will need to be cleaned. Be careful of using too much water. This may start a mold issue on its own.

Step 9. If the carpet develops an odour it will need to be cleaned or replaced.

Step 10. Inspect the carpet for mold. If you see mold growth on or under the carpet, the carpet will need to be replaced.

A mold testing can determine if the carpet has mold and if the air quality is being negatively affected. Not all mold spores or mold growth is the same. Some mold growth can be harmful and some mold growth can be harmless. We can help you find out what kind of mold you have and if it is affecting your home.

Learn more about carpet steam cleaning and mold