Dealing with Carpet Mold

Mold is a common problem for homeowners. Though common, discovering mold in your interior space can be a serious issue. Mold in carpets can grow quickly and spread to other areas of your home. This can also present serious health risks to anyone exposed to the area with the mold. Health risks range from minor issue like coughing and eye irritation to more severe such as allergic reactions and severe respiratory problems.

Prevention Mold can be tricky to clean. That’s why the best way to deal with mold in carpet is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. There are several measures you can take to prevent mold growth in carpets. Controlling the indoor humidity with the use of dehumidifiers can help prevent its growth. High-quality anti-microbial carpet padding is another option. Additionally, it is important when cleaning dirt or stains to thoroughly dry the carpet afterward.

Identifying Mold is typically not visible unless growth is already severe. Visible mold growth means that the mold is probably also occurring underneath the carpet where it can’t be seen. With visible growth the carpet may not always be salvageable. Likewise, carpeted areas that have been subjected to standing water for any period of time will typically have to be removed. If the mold isn’t visible, you may be able to detect it from discoloration or odor on the carpeting.

Removal For small areas of mold growth you may be able to deal with it using a steam cleaning machine. Remember to test any detergents or cleaning agents on an inconspicuous area of your carpet prior to use. After cleaning it is essential that the carpet is dried completely. If the carpet does not dry completely it can promote additional growth. Use a fan to promote faster drying. Also since a moist environment can help mold to grow, a dehumidifier can also help to ensure that the carpet is completely dry and mold free.

Limit Your Exposure It is important to keep in mind that this kind of contamination can cause a range of health problems. That’s why when cleaning mold you may want to wear a N-95 respirator which you can purchase at many hardware stores. Gloves and goggles are also recommended in order to protect your health.

Additional Resources Mold in carpet can be difficult to deal with. A professional carpet cleaning service can advise you regarding the best course of action in your particular situation. Professional carpet cleaning can help ensure that your home is a clean and healthy environment.