Mould can grow almost anywhere, but carpeting represents the most attractive mould proposition in homes and businesses. If carpet is installed in a moist environment, or gets wet and remains that way for a few days, mould is extremely likely. Even when carpet is dry to the touch, the under layers may remain wet and create mould problems.

Carpets can get wet for many reasons, from floods and plumbing issues, to window and roof leaks. Improper steam cleaning can also introduce moisture and mould into a carpet, as can basement and appliance leaks. Regardless of how it got there, it’s important to remove mould in order to avoid serious building and health problems.

Time plays a big factor in mould growth patterns. The longer carpet remains wet, the more mould spores are likely to land on damp areas and grow. Even though many modern carpets are synthetic, household dust often gets trapped within the carpet and provides a food source for mould.

Preventing Carpet Mould in 10 Easy Steps

1. Remove all standing water immediately with brooms and a wet/dry vacuum.
2. Move all furniture and building contents to a dry area to create some space.
3. Pull back the carpet, including the under layers. The bottom layers or carpet pads can hold moisture, water and mould for a long time, so they need to be removed carefully.
4. The carpet needs to be dried out with a heat source, which will allow the moisture to evaporate.
5. Use a dehumidifier to control and reduce the humidity in the air. This is a great way to speed up the drying out process.
6. Use dedicated blowers or fans to maximise air flow into and over the water damaged carpet. Air movement helps moisture to evaporate.
7. Keep applying these steps for a few days until the carpet is completely dry. If the carpet remains wet, you will need to replace it.
8. Inspect the carpet for signs of moisture or mould. While you may need to apply water in order to clean stains, it’s important to avoid exposure to excessive moisture.
9. If the affected carpet develops stains that can’t be removed or an odour that sticks around, it will need to be professionally cleaned or replaced.
10. Inspect the carpet thoroughly for any signs of mould. If you see any mould growth on the carpet, around the carpet, or under the carpet, it will need to be replaced.

A professional mould assessment from IECL is the best way to ensure the health of your home and family. Visible mould can be hard to spot in some situations, and air quality can be affected without any visible signs. We can carry out a comprehensive mould assessment in all areas of your home, and measure mould in the air to ensure a safe and healthy living space. Not all mould spores or growth patterns are the same, so it’s important to get an accurate assessment.

If you want to protect your home and family, please call IECL today to speak with one of our friendly technicians at 1300 032 004.