Preventing And Identifying A Moldy Basement Carpet

Basement carpeting is more likely to mold than carpeting in any other room in the house. Because basements are often damp or prone to water damage, mold is likely to affect the carpeting. Not only can this deteriorate your carpet, it can be a threat to the health of your family. Here's how to prevent basement carpet mold – and identify a moldy carpet.

Prevention Tip: Keep Your Basement Dry

Installing a sump pump in your basement may prevent moisture from accumulating. Sealing cracks on floors and walls may prevent mold as well. If you happen to notice water seeping onto the basement carpet, dry it out thoroughly using a wet vac.

Open basement windows to circulate the air. Also, keep carpets free of condensation by running a humidifier to eliminate dampness. Ideally, humidity levels shouldn't exceed more than 50 percent.

If you notice a wet spot on your basement carpet, pour some hydrogen peroxide or rubbing alcohol on the carpet. Both ingredients contain antimicrobial properties. Before doing so, test it on an inconspicuous spot to be sure the carpet fibers don't become damaged.

Also, when steam cleaning your basement carpet, allow it to dry thoroughly before walking on it or placing any furniture down. If you must walk on a damp carpet, remove your shoes.

Identifying Carpet Mold

Do you notice a damp, stale smell in your basement? It may be due to carpet mold. The odor may be particularly noticeable after vacuuming the carpet. Crouch down low and notice if the smell is coming from the carpet fibers.

If your basement is converted into a bedroom or game room, your family may spend a good deal of time there. Are family members experiencing higher incidents of allergies or respiratory issues? Carpet mold could be to blame.

Mold spores on your basement carpet can be visually detected by discoloration. Look for green or brown spots and patches. Be sure to check your carpet padding for signs of deterioration and discoloration. You might want to purchase a mold testing kit from your local home improvement store to know for sure.

Treating a Moldy Carpet

Once mold damage has affected your carpet, you might not be able to salvage it. If a very small area has been affected, try using a product formulated for destroying mold and mildew. Close your heating and air conditioning vents before treating your carpet, as this will prevent spores from infiltrating other areas of the home.  

If you think that this is a large job, you might want to consider having a professional, such as Carpet Corner Carpet One Floor & Home, clean your carpets.


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