“Carpet” Diem: Know the Pitfalls of DIY Carpet Cleaning
Have you seen what kids are doing on TikTok to clean random things like slime, caramel, pudding and ketchup out of carpets?
Alternating soap and water, letting excessive amounts of water soak in the carpet, scraping the stain with a bottle cap or utensil, and blotting the wet area with a single paper towel is a recipe for disaster. Using multiple cups of water to clean the stain is a “pour” decision. This DIY carpet cleaning method can ruin the carpet, cause mildew and rot your subfloor.
It may floor you, but mold or mildew can develop in carpet in as little as a week or sometimes days, depending on the humidity level in your home.
Don’t sweep any tell-tell signs of mold or mildew under the rug. Here’s what to look for:
Musty Odor – If you detect a bad smell in your home, a moldy carpet is most likely the culprit.
Small Discoloration Spots – Do you notice green, black or white spots on your carpet? If so, replacing your carpet is the only solution.
Soft or Spongy Areas – If your carpet feels squishy, it is most likely from water damage. Call a professional to inspect and repair the floor. To prevent future soft spots, keep water away, and maintain your floors and foundation.
Damp Areas – Carpet that has not had a chance to dry out after being cleaned could result in dampness, which is susceptible to mold growth.
Allergic Reactions – You may experience symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose from a moldy carpet.
If you have mold or mildew in your carpet, the best way to eliminate it is to replace your carpet and padding. While you can treat the affected areas with various solutions, most will only temporarily work. It depends on the severity of the mold or mildew.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to easily detect dry rot that results from DIY carpet cleaning. This is a job for a professional who will inspect your subflooring and foundation. If there is dry rot, you will need to replace the carpet and subfloor. If the damage is beyond the subfloor, the framework underneath will need to be repaired.
If you end up with a glob of slime, sticky caramel or other substances on your carpet, ask a professional how to clean the carpet stain. While you are at it, schedule a carpet cleaning. In addition to extending the life of your carpet, it helps remove dirt and bacteria, eliminates stains, creates a healthier environment, and restores fibers, especially in high-traffic areas. Be sure to hire a professional who uses quality products – like Microban – and proper equipment that won’t leave behind excessive moisture. Note: Some of the best and most effective carpet cleaning chemicals or solutions can only be purchased by an approved professional.
Now is the time to step up your carpet game. Pay attention to signs of water damage and consult with or use a professional for carpet cleaning and maintenance. And if you or your kids want to try getting substances out of carpets using the DIY carpet-cleaning TikTok trend, do it on a carpet remnant outside. Save the life hacks for other things that won’t damage your home and wallet.