How to Get Mold Out of Your Carpet
The first thing you’ll probably notice when you enter a room with a mold problem is the musty odor. Mold, which can look like green or gray patches on carpet, can lead to allergy and asthma problems, which will only get worse if the mold isn’t rooted out and removed.
Dampness left untreated can cause mold on carpet. If you suspect that mold is lingering in your home, here’s what to do to fix the problem.
You’ve Found Mold in Your Carpet: Now What?
There are several tips online for removing mold from carpet, but not all of them are practical or effective. Some swear buy natural remedies, such as vinegar and tea tree oil. However, these substances often merely “inhibit” mold without killing it completely. Other sites suggest using bleach. While bleach certainly works, though, it can also discolor your carpet. Your best bet may be using an antifungal spray designed specifically to kill mold. This product can be found in many home improvement or retail stores. Make sure the spray you choose indicates that it offers mold prevention and that it’s safe for carpets.
Steps to Removing Mold from Carpet
(1) You’ll first want to make sure you’re protecting yourself. If you can’t take a rug outside, make sure the windows are open while you clean. You may also want to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, and a facemask if you’re prone to allergies.
(2) If you can lift the carpet, look for mold on the backing first. If you see mold growth that spreads over a large area, you’ll want to replace the entire section of carpet. Be sure to remove and replace the carpet pad as well.
(3) If you see a manageable spot of mold, then you can begin the cleaning process. Use a dry, stiff bristle brush to scrub out the visible mold spores first. Sweep them up with a dustpan and throw them away. Hold off on vacuuming up any mold spores you see. Vacuuming can actually spread the mold around.
(4) Next, spray on plenty of the antifungal spray of your choice. Be sure to saturate the entire area, and a few inches around it, spraying both front and back of the carpet. Then, let the spray soak in and sit for an hour.
(5) Now this is the tough part. You’ll want to blot the wet carpet with a clean, dry rag to soak up any excess spray. Then, leave the carpet alone. Do not rinse the area, clean it further, or vacuum it. Thinking of using a fan to help the area dry? DON’T! That can blow mold spores around. Instead, just close the windows and let the carpet dry for 24 hours. You may use a dehumidifier or turn up the heat if you like. Just make sure that no one disturbs the area while it’s drying. Remember: the mold is still active and can spread. The antifungal agent in your spray will continue to do its work until that area of carpet is completely dry.
(6) Once the carpet is dry, return with with your antifungal spray and – yes – do steps 4 and 5 again. Trust us, you’ll want the mold completely gone, and this will help. One more thing: wash the bristle brush, dustpan, and anything else that has touched the mold with warm, soapy water and more anti-fungal spray. Throw away the rag you used to blot the carpet with after using it.
Why all this trouble? Mold is nasty and it will spread. So, check your carpet from time to time and keep your dehumidifier running for a few days to be sure that it’s out of your house forever.
If You Need a Deep Cleaning, Contact Us
Would you like help from professionals who’ve been in the business since 1974? Don’t hesitate to contact one of our representatives! We’re happy to help you achieve clean, fresh-smelling, mold-free carpet.
