The signs of carpet mold range across the board; from colors to odors, there are many signs that point to mold. Ingesting mold or being exposed to its airborne pathogens can cause a number of health hazards. If you suspect mold in your carpet, it’s important to act fast. Here’s what you need to know about how to identify carpet mold and getting it out of your home.
What Causes Mold?
Mold growth is the product of many factors. According to a post from the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, mold needs the following: moisture, oxygen, a food source, and surface to grow on. Carpet is highly susceptible to mold because the fibers can retain moisture, food, and oxygen. If you think you need to clean your carpet, we provide top-notch carpeting cleaning services. Mold can be easy to spot if you know what to look for.
What Does Mold Look Like?
Mold often looks like a stain and can take on the form of different colors and smells. The sure signs of mold are black or green stains that grow and a mildew-like smell. When mold grows, it presents a number of health hazards and a burden for homeowners.
Why is Mold Dangerous?
Exposure to mold presents numerous health hazards which can cause symptoms such as respiratory issues, as well as skin and eye irritation. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found evidence linking mold to an influx of childhood asthma. If you suspect mold growing in your carpet, you need to act fast to identify the source and clean it.
Getting Mold Out of Carpets
The first step in getting rid of mold starts by pointing out the source. Be on the lookout for visible signs of mold which may appear as black or green with fuzzy white spots. You should also keep an eye out for wet carpet and a mildew smell.
The second step to removing mold is most important. If you have discovered a newly formed, small patch of mold or wet carpet, you need to act fast to save your carpet. You have a 24-hour window to remove mold. This can be done by steam cleaning and/or cleaning the affected area with water and vinegar or solvents specifically for removing mold.Homeowners will likely have to install new carpeting when mold growth goes unresolved. However, there are several things you can do to prevent mold from forming.
How to Prevent Mold on Carpets
The most important thing you can do to prevent mold on carpets is to be attentive. Make sure you clean and dry up spills, vacuum as often as possible and monitor the room’s humidity. You lessen the chances of having to deal with mold with a little bit of maintenance.
Need Your Carpets Cleaned or Replaced?
Carpet mold can be cleaned without having to replace your carpet if you act fast. However, if mold has grown for long periods of time, you’ll have to replace your carpet. If you are in the Milwaukee or Chicago area, call on My Affordable Flooring for carpet installation and cleaning.
