How to Fix Carpet Mildew
Cleaning carpets can generally be a difficult task, but removing mildew from carpets can be even more challenging. According to Missouri Families, "Mildew is a thin, usually black, sometimes white, growth produced on many surfaces by molds." Mildew is often a problem in areas that have lots of humidity and damp weather. Removing mildew from carpets as soon as possible is very important. The sooner you remove the mildew, the easier it will be to get your carpet completely clean. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Removing Carpet Mildew
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Stop the growth of mildew. According to Michigan State University, "If the musty mildew odor is detected, stop its growth. Use a dehumidifier to remove the moisture from the air and, in turn, from the carpet. As long as the moisture is low the mildew will not grow." Because mildew thrives on moisture, removing as much humidity from the air as possible will reduce the growth of mildew.
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Clean the carpet with detergent and a damp cloth. Sponge any mildew spots on the carpet. Be careful not to scrub the carpet, as this will push mildew stains deeper into the fibers. Dry the carpet with a towel. Running a small fan will also help dry the carpet quickly.
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Use a wet vacuum. A wet vacuum is designed to remove dampness and moisture from carpets. These can be rented from home improvement stores, hardware stores, and some grocery stores. A regular vacuum will not dry out the carpet.
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Call a professional carpet cleaner. If general cleaning techniques do not remove the mildew from carpet, calling a professional carpet cleaner may be necessary. He may be able to offer commercial cleaning techniques that will remove any remaining mildew from your carpet.
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