Carpets provide living spaces with thermal insulation and comfort. However, because of their fibers, carpets can be a haven for mold. Below you’ll discover why carpets mold and some ways to help prevent it.

What Makes Carpets Mold?

One of the main causes behind carpet mold is moisture. This wet atmosphere is a favorite environment for mold spores to grow and spread in.

Sometimes mold also forms on carpets because of poor ventilation. If you don’t open your windows often or have stuffy air quality, it makes mold more likely to grow.

Signs Your Carpet Has Mold

There are multiple signs to keep an eye out for that indicate your carpet has mold. This includes:

  • Discoloration
  • A musty odor lingering near it
  • You tend to sneeze or have watery eyes when around it

5 Ways to Prevent Carpets From Molding

  • Limit Indoor Humidity: As mentioned above, humid conditions invite moisture, something which creates mold. Limiting indoor humidity can be done with the help of a dehumidifier. This device will draw warm air into it and then pass it through a refrigerant compartment where it will then be condensed.[1] Other ways to help limit indoor humidity is by opening windows and using your air conditioner.
  • Keep Your Carpet Clean: Another way to keep your carpet from molding is to regularly clean it. Vacuuming can help remove mold spores and other allergens. You might also consider prohibiting shoes walking over its surface because they can track in debris that causes mold.
  • Quickly Remove Any Water: If you happen to spill some water on your carpet, quickly clean it up. This liquid can seep into its fibers which can make them moist. This not only ruins your carpet, but can lead to severe water damage beneath it.
  • Improve Air Flow: To prevent moisture you’ll want to improve the room’s air flow with the help of fans. This can keep out humidity while drying any water droplets on your carpet.
  • Check the Carpet Padding: Carpet padding is situated beneath the carpet to protect it from heavy usage. If water drops on the carpet, it will immediately soak into the padding. Homeowners who have had serious issues with water or mold on their carpets will want to check the padding because it could encourage mold growth.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be able to ensure that your carpeting lasts for many years. If you’re concerned that you might have mold growing in your carpets, RCS in Santa Rosa, CA can help. We have state-of-the-art mold removing tools and test that will quickly and safely eradicate it.