Carpets can develop mould if exposed to too much water or moisture. Carpet mould can also be caused by poor-quality carpeting and padding. Mould can grow when low-quality materials or incorrectly fitted carpets are exposed to germs and humidity.
It may necessitate the use of specialised cleaning techniques. Here are several alternative cleaning procedures for removing mould from a carpet. We’ll also walk you through how to figure out which is ideal.
What causes mould to grow on carpets?
Mould is a fungus that spreads through the release of spores. Mould spores can be found anywhere, even in your home. Mould grows and develops in damp environments such as a wet basement or a poorly ventilated bathroom because the spores require moisture to grow and flourish. Mould thrives on carpets because they are excellent at retaining moisture.
Moisture trapped in dense fibres and microscopic nooks and crannies in carpets is trapped when they become moist from flooding, leaks, or simply because they were cleaned but not fully dried). Most carpets have a backing to which the weave is bonded. If the backing becomes damp or moisture penetrates, it may become trapped beneath the carpet. A wet carpet will remain moist until you actively attempt to dry it with fans, a hot air drier, or a dehumidifier. It doesn’t take long for mould to grow on a wet carpet.
We only regularly look at the carpet in many homes. There could be carpet in a closet or behind heavy furniture that is seldom moved. If the carpet in one of these spots becomes damp, you may not notice it for some time, allowing the mould to grow and spread.
Why Is This Required?
Mould spores can grow quickly in wet environments, causing health problems and property damage. Getting rid of mould from carpets as soon as possible is crucial. Upper respiratory disorders, such as severe asthma and eye irritation, might affect your loved ones. In addition, many families have children who crawl or play on the floor. Playing near mould can release spores and spread them around the house.
Mould also has a musty odour that lingers throughout the house. If you only have a small quantity of mould, you should be able to get rid of it. If it is more than that, or there is sewage flooding, engage a professional to remove and replace the carpet. Mould on washable throw rugs may typically be cleaned and saved.
Why is carpet mould such a major issue?
Mould in your home has a significant negative impact on air quality. Inhaling mould spores may cause health concerns, especially for persons who are allergic to mould. When exposed to mould and mould spores, those with mould sensitivity can have upper respiratory symptoms, increased asthma symptoms, and eye discomfort, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Mould spores can also cause allergic reactions in those allergic to mould. Carpet mould is especially dangerous because children frequently play on the floor, and even walking on the mouldy carpet can release spores into the air.
Carpet mould also causes issues that are not directly related to health. The musty mildew odour associated with mould can permeate the entire house. Mould also damages the surfaces on which it grows. Mould trapped beneath a carpet may cause damage to the floor or baseboards.
What should I think about before attempting to remove mould from my carpet?
Before attempting to remove mould from your carpet, remember that it is extremely difficult to remove mould from any porous or absorbent surface. Materials include carpet, wood, gypsum, drywall, ceiling tiles, upholstery, and similar materials. Every mould cleanup resource and guide recommends that these items be removed, discarded, and replaced. If the carpet, backing, or padding is mouldy or has a mouldy odour, throw it out.
Keep damp throw rugs only if they can be fully washed and do not smell mouldy after drying.” If the mould was produced by flooding containing sewage or other contaminated water, the carpet cannot be saved and must be replaced.
When removing mould, it is critical to use suitable safety equipment. Clearing up the mould will release a lot of mould spores into the air. That may require chemical cleaners that emit fumes, gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator. Mould spores can cause serious allergic reactions if you are not properly protected.
Another alternative is to seek quotations from mould treatment contractors in your region. Mould removal from carpet is a nasty, time-consuming job that requires specific equipment and chemicals, so it may be worth paying professionals to do it for you. The cost varies widely based on region and the size of the mould infestation, but expect to pay $2,000 or more.
However, if you have opted to remove mould from your carpet, here is a step-by-step guide.
How to Remove Mould from Carpet
You will only be able to eliminate some mould and mould spores. Even the most effective mould removal procedures in the previous trials did not eliminate all of the moulds. Some mould or mould spores will remain after the most thorough cleaning. The only way to keep mould from returning is to dry the carpet. The area should be well-ventilated and humid.
It would be best if you also vacuumed frequently. Using an air filter capable of trapping mould spores may also be beneficial. Mould spores can be removed from the air using air purifiers with HEPA filters or other air purification equipment.
Mould can be difficult to eradicate if it has penetrated the carpet. If you cannot replace the carpet, a thorough cleaning that stops mould from spreading elsewhere in your home may be sufficient. Keep your carpets dry, and if they become wet, dry them promptly to avoid mould from forming in the first place.
When Should You Hire a Professional to Remove Mold From Your Carpet?
After trying everything above and still being unable to get rid of the mould, it’s time to consult a professional. Also, if the area is larger than 10 square feet or you have health concerns, contact a Reztor Restoration professional to assess the situation. Water often comes from deep inside the walls, and a specialist can do a thermal imaging inspection to determine the source of the water intrusion.
Conclusion
Mould removal and disposal at home is a difficult task. If you’ve tried cutting and cleaning your carpet, keep in mind that you’ll need to do it at least once a year or after each significant wet season. You will also have to pay rent for the space in your home in this manner. The cheapest solution would be to deal with health issues head-on and live peacefully.
Reztor Restoration provides professional solutions for your home restoration needs if you need a professional mould removal firm. Reztor Restoration also offers mould removal and cleanup services. Contact us at 1800 739 867 or visit our website for more information on how we can assist you.
Mould is nothing to mess with and should be dealt with as soon as it appears. Do you need assistance getting rid of it, or do you have other suggestions for eliminating mould from the carpet? Please contact Reztor Restoration; we would appreciate hearing from you!