Carpet mould is a common but often overlooked problem, and it can be an unseen danger to your home or business.
While it can be difficult to spot, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks posed by mould in your carpeting.
In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of carpet mould, how to detect it, and what steps you can take to prevent it from occurring or remedy the problem if it has already occurred.
The problem of carpet mould
Carpet mould is a silent intruder in homes and businesses, lurking in carpets and potentially creating a hazardous environment for the people who inhabit the space.
Mould is a common issue in carpets, and can present a serious health hazard if not treated correctly.
Unfortunately, this is only one of the many potential issues that can arise due to moisture being trapped within the carpet fibres.
Not only can mould produce a musty odour, but it can also release airborne toxins that can cause irritation to the respiratory system, allergic reactions, and in some cases potentially toxic substances known as mycotoxins.
Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash. Mould spores cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mould.
Even in areas where mould is not visible, it can still be present, making it essential to take preventative measures to ensure the health and safety of home and business owners.
How Mould Occurs in Carpets
Mould needs moisture, oxygen, a food source, and a surface to grow on. Carpet is ideal for this. Carpet mould typically occurs as a result of high humidity and poor ventilation, as well as leaky pipes or other sources of moisture, such as an unskilled carpet cleaner getting your carpet too wet, and taking too long to dry.
Sometimes the presence of mould can be identified through visual cues, such as discolouration and staining, as well as through the musty smell it emits. Most mould though is invisible under carpets.
If you suspect that your carpets may be harbouring mould, there are DIY solutions and professional solutions available.
Actions You Can Take
DIY solutions include using a dehumidifier and using a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the affected area. Make sure to treat the carpet, underlay and flooring.
Professional solutions may include using carpet cleaning equipment and specific mould-killing solutions.
The best way to prevent the development of carpet mould is to keep carpets clean and ensure that the area is well-ventilated. Dehumidifiers are great for reducing the moisture in a home and preventing mould growth.
Regular, fast-drying carpet cleaning and improved airflow will go a long way in keeping mould away from your carpets. Many carpet cleaners will leave your carpets very wet. This can cause mould to grow, and accelerate any mould already under your carpets.
Conclusion
Carpet mould is a serious issue that can cause significant damage to your carpets, furniture, and even your and your family’s health.
It’s important to be aware of the signs of mould and to take the necessary steps to prevent and remove it.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the time or experience to take on the task of cleaning mould on their own.
If you want to make sure the job is done properly and safely, call ACS Carpet Cleaning for a free no-obligation quote.
Don’t let the unseen dangers of carpet mould ruin your home – or your health! Get in touch with ACS today to keep your carpets looking and feeling their best.