Mold and mildew can hide in carpet undiscovered for years, only making itself known when the flooring is pulled up. The most common cause of mold and mildew in carpet is extended dampness, whether it is a persistent leak from a nearby pipe or a puppy that is not yet housetrained. Mold can start growing in just a few days, resulting in a musty odor and discolored patches on the carpet. In addition, residents may experience certain health ailments, such as chronic allergies, bronchitis, and asthma. If you have discovered mold or mildew in your carpet or suspect that fungi may be present, it is vital to take the necessary steps to remove it.
Top Ways To Kill Mold & Mildew In Carpet
So, what kills mold and mildew in carpet? This depends on the extent of the fungi growth, the type of carpet you have, and the amount of time you have to dedicate to mold and mildew removal. As mold and mildew can grow very fast in the right conditions, it is important to start treatment immediately to prevent the problem from getting worse. Here are a few ways homeowners can kill mold and mildew in carpet.
1. Apply A Baking Soda & Vinegar Mixture
For homeowners who prefer natural cleaning methods, a baking soda and white vinegar mixture can be effective for killing some mold. In addition, baking soda and vinegar can help eliminate tough odors resulting from musty fungi. For light mold problems, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the carpet. Next, pour white vinegar into a spray bottle and generously spray the affected area overtop the baking soda. Use a stiff brush to loosen the mold from the carpet fibers. Use a blow dryer to thoroughly dry the carpet. Once dry, use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any leftover baking soda and debris.
2. Heat With A Steam Cleaner
Heating mold and mildew in carpets has been found effective in killing fungi. Steam cleaning is one way that the average homeowner can kill mold and mildew in carpet via heat treatment. To be effective, heat must be applied to each affected area of carpet for at least 12 seconds. Once the carpet has been efficiently treated, it must be dried immediately as the moisture from the steam can encourage new mold to develop. If you do not have a steam cleaner and do not want to purchase a new one, you can usually rent a steam cleaning machine from your local home improvement store.
3. Use An Anti-Fungal Treatment
Anti-mold or anti-fungal sprays can be used to help kill mold and mildew in carpet. Oftentimes, these treatments are referred to as “antifungal coatings” which include an encapsulate or mold barrier designed to prevent future mold growth. To use an anti-fungal spray, saturate the affected area and at least six-inches around it, blot with a dry rag, and allow to dry. Do not walk on the carpet when it is drying to prevent spreading any mold that is still “alive.” Also, be sure to use a product that specifies it is safe for carpets. Anti-fungal sprays designed for kitchens and bathrooms may discolor your carpets and rugs.
4. Rent A HEPA Vacuum Cleaner
A HEPA vacuum is a type of vacuum cleaner that is specifically approved for filtering out mold spores. These vacuums are best used after you have successfully removed an infestation using other methods, although it can be used periodically throughout the process to help eliminate stubborn mold and mildew. A HEPA vacuum will help suck up any remaining mold spores that are left from the treatment, which can help prevent future mold issues. While HEPA vacuums can usually be purchased or rented, the most powerful machines are owned by professional carpet cleaning companies.
5. Hire A Professional Carpet Cleaner
Unfortunately, when it comes to killing mold and mildew in carpet, doing it yourself is usually not the best solution. As mold spores spread easily, it can be very difficult to completely get rid of mold and mildew from carpet. That is why many homeowners turn to professional carpet cleaning companies to eliminate tough mold and mildew from their carpeting. Professional carpet cleaners have the knowledge, products, and equipment needed to properly and safely kill mold and mildew in carpet without causing damage to delicate carpet fibers or the underlying floor. Professional carpeting cleaning is also essential to make your carpet sanitized following a mold or mildew infestation.
Schedule Professional Carpet Cleaning Services
Mold is a health hazard and can cause unsightly staining and offensive odors in your home. Professional carpet cleaning can help return your carpets back to their original condition by killing mold and mildew. For more information about what kills mold and mildew in carpet or to schedule professional carpet cleaning services, contact the expert carpet cleaners at Safe-Dry Carpet Cleaning.