Musty-smelling carpets are both unpleasant and dangerous. Not only do they make your home smell unpleasant, but they may also pollute your indoor air with mold spores. The good news is that unless your home has been flooded, getting rid of musty smells from carpets is relatively simple. In this article, you will learn:

• Why mold in carpets is bad
• How to prevent musty smells on carpet
• How to get moldy smell out of carpet.

Let’s begin.

Why Moldy Smell in Carpet Is Bad

Moldy odors from carpet can be problematic for a variety of reasons. To begin with, it could suggest the existence of mold or mildew growth in the carpet or surrounding environment like the basement.

Mold and mildew are fungi that flourish in damp settings and can cause a variety of health complications, particularly in persons who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems. Mold spore exposure can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and nasal congestion, among others.

A moldy smell from carpet might suggest poor indoor air quality and potentially lead to uncomfortable living conditions, in addition to health risks.

Furthermore, a moldy odor might reduce the value of a home or rental property, making it less appealing to potential buyers or renters. To preserve a healthy and comfortable living environment, it is critical to handle any mold or mildew growth and eliminate the moldy smell as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Musty Smells on Carpet

Here are some original tips and techniques to prevent musty smells from lingering on your carpet:

• Keep your carpet fresh with regular vacuuming. Make it a habit to vacuum your carpet on a weekly basis. This simple task eliminates dust, dirt, and debris that can contribute to unpleasant odors. Opt for a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter for optimal efficiency.
• Swiftly tackle spills and stains. Act promptly when spills occur to prevent moisture from seeping into your carpet fibers and causing musty odors. Blot the affected area with a clean cloth or paper towel, then use a mild carpet cleaner to clean the spot thoroughly.
• Embrace the power of fresh air. Foster proper airflow and ventilation within your home. Opening windows or using fans helps circulate fresh air, particularly in areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms or basements. This practice helps combat musty smells.
• Deep clean your carpet. Establish a regular deep cleaning routine for your carpets. This can involve methods like steam cleaning, utilizing carpet shampooers, or enlisting the services of professional carpet cleaners. Deep cleaning effectively removes embedded dirt, allergens, and odors.
• Use doormats at entrances. Position doormats strategically at your home’s entrances to capture dirt and moisture before it reaches your carpet. To lessen the quantity of dirt tracked inside, instruct family members and visitors to clean their shoes off or even take them off before going onto the carpeted areas.
• Adopt a no-shoes policy. Consider implementing a no-shoes rule within your home. Shoes tend to introduce dirt, debris, and outdoor contaminants that can contribute to unwanted carpet odors. Designate a designated area near the entrance for shoes to promote a shoe-free environment.
• Manage humidity. Excess moisture in the air fosters the growth of mold and mildew, leading to musty smells on your carpet. Combat this issue by utilizing dehumidifiers in areas prone to high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms, to maintain optimal humidity levels.
• Swiftly dry wet carpets. If your carpet becomes wet due to spills, leaks, or flooding, make sure to dry it thoroughly within 24 to 48 hours to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Utilize fans, dehumidifiers, and consider professional water extraction services if necessary.
• Regularly inspect your carpet. Take the time to inspect your carpet on a regular basis, paying attention to signs of moisture, mold, or mildew. Act promptly if you notice any damp or discolored areas, addressing the issues immediately to prevent further odor development.
• Explore alternative flooring options. In areas where persistent moisture problems or high humidity persist, consider alternative flooring materials like tile, vinyl, or hardwood. These options are less prone to retaining odors and moisture, providing a proactive approach to preventing musty smells.

By incorporating these unique preventive measures, you can maintain a clean, fresh-smelling carpet and significantly reduce the likelihood of musty odors developing over time.

How to Get Moldy Smell out of Carpet

• First, make sure the area is dry. A musty odor indicates a water problem, so your carpet must have been moist or wet before it became musty. If you have water damage, fix it, then dry the area completely – open windows and use dehumidifiers and fans if necessary. If your home was recently flooded, hire a professional restoration company and learn whether or not your carpet can be saved after a flood.
• Once the water problem is fixed and the carpet is dry, vacuum the carpet to remove dust and help the odor dissipate faster. Use a large vacuum cleaner to remove more dust.
• Treat your carpet with a mixture of one cup of white vinegar and two cups of warm water. Use a spray bottle to mist over the carpet gently. Be careful not to oversaturate it, as increased moisture can lead to mold growth.
• Pour a copious amount of baking soda – an amazing odor neutralizer – on the carpet. Don’t worry; baking soda is safe for people and pets and does not damage your carpet.
• Wait a while for the natural deodorizers to take effect. The more you let the vinegar solution and baking soda sit, the better. Wait at least a few hours, or leave it overnight for the best results.
• Another way to remove musty smells from your carpet is to use hydrogen peroxide. Mix five parts of water with one part of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle, then apply the solution to the back of the carpet. This will help neutralize mold spores and odor.
• Alternatively, you can use foam carpet shampoo. First, vacuum the carpet, then apply the shampoo using a sponge – this ensures you don’t oversaturate the carpet. Finally, let the carpet dry, then vacuum it again.
• If the odor still persists, repeat the process using the method you prefer.

Note: the odor can be difficult to eliminate and may linger even after washing the afflicted area. The carpet may need to be replaced in some circumstances.

Contact Your Local PuroClean Office For Professional Carpet Cleaning Services

Learning how to get moldy smell out of carpet may not be enough for most homeowners. Completely cleaning your carpet from mold can be challenging. If none of your efforts are successful, have your carpet cleaned by a professional restoration company such as PuroClean. We provide advanced carpet cleaning, water removal, and mold restoration services to get your home smelling fresh again.