Mold anywhere in your home is a serious issue, but it can be even more serious when it comes to carpets and area rugs. Black mold and other types of mold can release spores that cause allergic reactions, prompt asthma attacks, and pose a health threat to people and pets. As it concerns your rugs and carpets, mold can degrade the fibers, leading to premature wear and tear, and mildew can often create a foul smell. Ultimately, this means replacing your carpets and area rugs sooner than usual.
To prevent mold and mildew growth after a major spill or water damage, we recommend following these tips.
Clean Spills Immediately
The main cause of mold and mildew growth in carpets and rugs is liquid spills that have been left to sit for too long. If the spill contains sugar, like fruit juice, mold is even more likely to occur. If someone spills a liquid onto your carpet or rug, blot the area dry with a towel. If the spill causes a stain, contact our team for tips on what you should use for an at-home cleaner.
Once the spill is no longer visible, place a towel on the spot and pile something heavy on top, or simply stand on the towel for a few minutes. Continue this process until the towel you’re using comes up dry.
Even if you only spill water, you shouldn’t assume it’ll dry out by itself. Water can soak into your carpet padding and even absorb into the subfloor, lingering for days and leading to mold.
Choose the Right Carpet Padding
The padding underneath your carpets can make a huge difference in the durability and longevity of your carpets. Cheap carpet padding will disintegrate when it gets wet, which will leave uneven spots under your carpet and reduce its effectiveness at protecting your subfloor.
You could also consider a moisture barrier pad underneath your carpet padding to add an extra layer of protection and prevent moisture from spilling through to the subfloor beneath. It is an additional expense, but it can be well worth the cost if there’s a major spill or flood.
Manage Your Home’s Humidity
The more humid your home is, the more likely mold is to grow. Especially during the summer here in the Midwest, your home may be at a higher risk for damp conditions. Use a dehumidifier to keep rooms dry and use fans to circulate air so that it doesn’t become stagnant in one area.
You can also add waterproof mats near your door or entryway to place wet shoes and jackets as you come into the house during rainy weather. Sometimes even a few drops from a raincoat or wet shoes can linger on your carpets and rugs.
Hire Springer Floor Care for a Professional Cleaning
The best way to ensure your carpets and rugs aren’t accumulating moisture is to have them professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Our team will not only remove dirt and debris from your floors, but with professional cleaning, you can be sure that your carpet is completely dry down through the carpet pad.
Are you worried that your carpets and rugs may be harboring excess moisture and potential mold and mildew? Reach out today!