How to Remove Mold and Mildew From a Carpet
Mildew is a growth that is caused by mold. For mildew to grow, it needs both moisture and humid temperatures. It is common to find mildew and mold growing on carpet after water damage has occurred to your home. When faced with carpet infested with mold and mildew, it is best to act as quickly as possible. Mold eats away at the fibers of the carpet, causing it to deteriorate beyond repair. Mold also will spread to other areas of the carpet and release spores into the air that can travel to other rooms. If the conditions in these rooms are ideal, mold will begin to grow from the spores. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Vacuum with attachments
- Garbage bag
- Water
- Laundry detergent
- 2 containers or buckets
- Whisk
- 2 cloths or sponges
- Fans
- Dehumidifier
Instructions
-
-
1
Secure the upholstery attachment to your vacuum's hose. Use the attachment to remove the surface mold and mildew from the carpet. Discard the contents of the vacuum's canister in a trash bag outside.
-
2
Pour 2 cups of water into a container. Add 1 tbsp. of laundry detergent. Whisk the contents together to create a sudsy foam.
-
-
3
Saturate a cloth in warm water. Wring out the excess water.
-
4
Dip the cloth into the mixture. Blot the mildew and mold--as well as surrounding areas--with the cloth. Continue blotting and reapplying the mixture until all mold and mildew is gone.
-
5
Fill a bucket with cool water. Saturate a clean cloth with the water and wring out the excess liquid.
-
6
Blot the carpet with the cloth to remove the mixture residue. Allow the carpet to air-dry. Point fans in the direction of the carpet to aid in the drying process.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Test the mold and mildew removal method on an inconspicuous area of the carpet. If damage to the carpet occurs, discontinue use.
Run a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.
References
- Photo Credit carpet roller image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com
