How to get mold out of carpet

Mold is a type of fungus that can develop both indoors and outdoors. Mold or mildew thrive in environments that are moist and warm, and they can grow within 24 to 48 hours of being exposed to this. Having mold in your house can be very dangerous as this can irritate your eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs. Along with that, people who have allergies or asthma are most susceptible to being affected by mold. Removing mold from surfaces such as concrete is much easier, however, removing mold from carpets or rugs is more of a challenge. This article will inform you on how to get mold out of your carpets.

What does carpet mold look like?

Before we move on to removing mold from carpeting, you must first know how to detect mold in carpets.

• Mildew often occurs first before mold. The color of mildew is usually white, whereas mold is either black, blue, red, or green.
• When mold growth has reached its peak stages, you will begin to see discolored patches on your carpet. Check your carpet for any black, green, or white growth as it is most likely mold. You should also check underneath your carpet as mold usually grows under the carpet before moving to the top.
• Mold will grow within 24 to 48 hours of being exposed to moisture, so in case your carpet has been exposed to water, make sure you dry it immediately.
• Sometimes, mold in the carpet is not visible as it could be growing inside the pad or in the fibers of the carpet. If you cannot detect any visible signs of the growth of mold or mildew, try smelling your carpet as mold usually has a unique, bad smell. If your carpet smells bad, then this is a clear sign of mold growth.

Allowing mold to grow on your carpets may cause sicknesses, especially if you are prone to allergies or if you have asthma. Whether or not you are allergic to mold, being exposed to it can still irritate you.

How to clean a moldy carpet

There are two ways to remove mold from carpeting. You can either use natural products, or you can use harsher chemicals that will remove the mold.

Before beginning the treatment process, remember to ventilate your space by opening any windows, or if possible, take the carpet outside. Although not all mold is dangerous, it is best to proceed with caution. Make use of facemasks and gloves as well to ensure safety from the effects of mold and/or chemicals.

1. How to get mold out of carpet naturally

Removing mold from your carpet does not always have to include harsh chemicals. If you are around others who may not react well to harsh chemicals such as children or pets, it is best to take the natural route when cleaning your carpet. One of the best ways to naturally remove mold from carpet is to use baking soda and vinegar.

• Simply apply the baking soda to affected areas of the carpet and leave it overnight.
• The baking soda will then absorb the moisture and bad odor coming from the mold.
• Vacuum and scrub your carpet with vinegar and a stiff bristle brush the next day to completely remove it.
• Make sure that your vacuum has a HEPA filter that can collect any remaining mold spores.

2. Removing mold from carpet with chemicals

A stronger approach to killing mold for good is by using specific carpet mold treatments such as anti-mold sprays or anti-fungal sprays for carpets. These can be found in local hardware stores and they will eliminate any mold existing in your carpets. You can even ask for professional help if you feel that it is necessary. It is essential that any excess spray is removed using a brush – and not water as using water could cause mold to develop again.

How to prevent mold from growing on the carpet

The best way to treat mold on a carpet is by preventing it from the beginning. Here are some methods that could reduce any future mold from growing:

• Use a dehumidifier or a fan. Having a humid environment could be the main reason why you have mold or mildew growing in your house. By using a dehumidifier or a fan, you are reducing the amount of moisture in your house, therefore, creating an environment that would not cause the growth of mold or mildew.
• Check your house for any spaces that are prone to moisture as mold or mildew can develop in these areas. Check vents and closets as well because these are places where mold can easily develop.
• Use a vacuum cleaner that is HEPA-filtered as these use a specialized vent that traps tiny particles. By vacuuming regularly, you can prevent any spores from occurring, therefore, stopping the growth of mold or mildew.

What kills mold in a carpet?

Sometimes, the simplest remedies are the most effective. When it comes to killing mold, natural ways are much preferred rather than relying on heavy chemicals.

• Baking soda and vinegar have been found to be effective for killing mold. They can also reduce odors that may be caused by mold.
• It is also recommended that your carpet is dried under direct sunlight for at least 48 hours after treatment to completely reduce the risk of mold growth. UV rays from the sun kill most mold and spores, which is why mold does not usually grow outside in the open.

Mold on your carpet is a serious matter that could harm your wellbeing; therefore, it should be treated with the utmost priority to keep you and your family safe. Make sure that you always check your carpets for any signs of growth of mold or mildew, and that you are following our tips to prevent any future growth. Hopefully, you were successful in using this article as a guide on how to get mold out of a carpet.