Getting your carpets professionally cleaned is a great way to remove dirt, dust and stains that can attract mold over time. However, some people are hesitant to have their carpets cleaned because they’ve heard that it could potentially cause mold to grow underneath afterwards. This is a common concern that deters many homeowners from maintaining their carpet’s cleanliness through professional cleaning.
What is Mold?
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in warm, damp, and humid places. It’s a living organism that can cause health issues for some people. Mold needs three things to grow: moisture, food, and the right temperature. Carpets are a perfect place for mold to grow because they trap moisture, dirt, and debris.
How Does Carpet Cleaning Work?
When you get your carpets carpet cleaned, a carpet cleaning machine is used to spray cleaning solution onto the carpet and then extract the dirty water. Most machines these days use very little water and can remove up to 98% of the moisture from the carpet. However, if too much water is used or the carpet isn’t dried properly, it can leave the carpet damp and allow mold to grow.
Can Carpet Cleaning Cause Mold Growth?
It is possible for mold to grow under carpets after carpet cleaning if the cleaning wasn’t done correctly. This usually only happens if too much water was used during cleaning and the carpet wasn’t dried thoroughly.
Professional carpet cleaning machines are very efficient at removing water nowadays, but some older machines may not extract enough moisture. It’s important to choose a reputable carpet cleaning company that uses modern equipment and ensures carpets are completely dry within a few hours.
How Can I Prevent Mold After Cleaning?
Here are some tips to prevent mold growth after cleaning your carpet;
- Choose a carpet cleaning service that uses equipment and inquire about the drying time.
- Increase airflow by opening windows and using fans post cleaning.
- Be vigilant, for signs of dampness and promptly address any moisture issues.
- Regular vacuuming helps eliminate dirt and dust which can attract mold.
- Repair any leaks or sources of moisture in your house.
- Consider switching to carpets as they are less susceptible to mold compared to materials, like wool.
How Do I Know If I Have Mold?
Mold usually first grows underneath carpets where it’s dark and damp. You may notice a musty smell. Over time, the mold spores can spread and cause discoloration on the carpet surface itself. Mold comes in different colors like black, white, green or orange. If you suspect mold under carpets, it’s best to lift up the carpet and inspect or call in professional help.
Should I Replace Moldy Carpets?
When mold starts growing in carpets it can be quite challenging to get rid of it. The spores will keep coming unless you tackle the underlying conditions. Sometimes replacing the area is the effective long term solution. This not safeguards your health. Also helps prevent recurring mold problems. Additionally make sure to address any sources of moisture to avoid having new carpets develop mold again.
Final Thought
When done properly by reputable professionals, carpet cleaning itself does not cause mold issues. But improper techniques that don’t thoroughly dry carpets or address existing moisture sources could introduce conditions for mold to grow. With the right carpet cleaning approach and routine vacuuming, mold in carpets can be effectively prevented.