|
As long as the moisture is low the mildew will not grow. Use a dehumidifier to remove the moisture from the air and, in turn, from the carpet. Carpets look great, are soft under foot and can add a finishing designer touch to most any room. At the same time, carpets (particularly carpets near entry areas) can get wet, trap moisture and serve as terrific breeding ground for all sorts of mold and mildew. If mildew growth has started, it will be mainly in the back. If the back can be examined, a discolored area may indicate the growth location. The musty odor will be evident if some moisture is still present. If no odor can be detected, a little hot moisture from a steam iron on the back of the carpet will quickly bring out the musty smell. Conventional carpet cleaners can treat dirt and fill the air with flowery perfumes, but they do little to address mold or mildew in the carpet or carpet backing because they do not contain mold or mildew disinfectants. Any time a carpet gets wet, following a flood or a rainstorm – even after routine shampooing or steam cleaning – carpets must be completely dry after 48 hours to avoid the onslaught of mold infestation. Carpeting is an area of the home that can be at high risk for mold growth. In order to grow, mold needs moisture, oxygen, a food source, and a surface to grow on. Mold spores are commonly found naturally in the air. If spores land on a wet or damp spot indoors that contains dust for them to feed on, mold growth will soon follow. Wall-to-wall carpeting, as well as area rugs, can provide an ample breeding ground for mold if conditions are right. At especially high risk for mold growth are carpeting located below ground level in basements, carpet in commonly moist or damp climates, and carpet that has been wet for any period of time. The best method for combating mold is to not allow mold growth in the first place. The best way to do so is by ensuring that conditions conducive to growth do not exist. When carpeting needs to be cleaned, try to use a dry form of cleaning, when possible. If any water, liquid, or other moisture has come in contact with the carpet during cleaning, be sure it is dried thoroughly afterward. Small areas of growth that have been quickly identified can sometimes be dealt with. Detergent and water used with a steam cleaning machine may be enough to clean the carpet thoroughly. It is then important to ensure that the carpet dries completely after cleaning to prevent the growth from recurring. Stronger cleaning agents can be substituted if detergent does not work. Anything stronger than detergent or common rug-cleaning products should first be tested on an inconspicuous area of the carpet to ensure that the rug will not be damaged during cleaning. Go to main page Auckland Carpet Cleaning for more ideas and assistance
Related Articles -
Carpet cleaning, carpet cleaning Auckland, carpet cleaning northshore, carpet cleaning west Auckland, carpet cleaning south Auckland, carpet cleaner,
|
