Mildew stains and musty odors in carpeting can be annoying and unhealthy. Thankfully, there are several effective methods for removing mildew and its associated smells from carpets. With a bit of effort, you can banish mildew and enjoy fresh, clean carpeting again.
What Causes Mildew in Carpets?
Mildew is a type of fungus that grows in warm, damp environments. It leaves behind visible staining and a characteristic musty, moldy odor. Mildew can grow in carpets for a few common reasons:
- Moisture – Spills, leaks, flooding, or high humidity can soak carpeting and provide ideal conditions for mildew.
- Limited airflow – Carpets in enclosed areas without ventilation, like basements or under furniture, are prone to mildew.
- Organic materials – Carpet fibers, backing, and padding provide food for mildew to feed on.
Removing Mildew Stains From Carpet
Mildew stains can be stubborn, but with the right techniques you can lift them from carpeting fibers:
Dry Vacuuming
Start by thoroughly vacuuming the affected area and surrounding carpet to remove surface mildew and spores. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to prevent spreading mildew. Vacuum both sides of the carpet if possible.
Baking Soda
Liberally sprinkle baking soda over the stain and let sit for several hours to absorb moisture and odors. The alkaline baking soda will help neutralize musty-smelling acids.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution onto the mildew stain. Allow it to bubble and lift the stain for 5-10 minutes.
White Vinegar
Fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar. Spray liberally onto the stain. The high acidity of vinegar kills mildew spores and bleaches stains. Let sit for 1-2 hours before blotting.
Dish Soap
Mix a few drops of clear dish soap into a bowl of warm water. Use a soft-bristled scrub brush to work the solution into the stain. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.
Laundry Detergent
Make a concentrated detergent solution of 1 cup laundry detergent per 1 quart warm water. Use a sponge or scrub brush to rub it into the stain. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Eliminating Mildew Odors from Carpet
In addition to stain removal, you’ll need to tackle the musty mildew smell from carpets using these techniques:
Allow Carpet to Dry
After extracting excess moisture and cleaning mildew stains, allow the carpet to completely dry. Open windows and use fans to speed drying. Damp carpets will continue to smell.
Deodorizers
Sprinkle baking soda, borax, or enzyme carpet cleaner over carpeting. Let sit for several hours, then vacuum up. These absorb and neutralize mildew odors.
White Vinegar
Wipe or spray undiluted white vinegar onto carpeting. As it dries, the vinegar smell will dissipate. The acidity kills odor-causing bacteria.
Air Purifiers
Run HEPA air purifiers with activated carbon filters in affected rooms to remove mildew spores and musty smells from the air.
Professional Cleaning
For serious mildew issues, hire a professional carpet cleaner. They have truck-mounted equipment that deeply cleans carpets and removes odors. Ask for anti-microbial or enzymatic treatments.
Preventing Future Mildew Growth
To avoid repeated mildew issues, make these preventive measures part of your regular carpet care routine:
- Dry carpets thoroughly after steam cleaning or shampooing using fans and dehumidifiers.
- Vacuum carpets frequently to remove moisture and dirt before mildew starts.
- Increase air circulation and ventilation in enclosed carpeted areas.
- Treat spills and stains quickly to avoid mildew growth.
- Consider low-moisture carpet cleaning options like absorbent powder or carbonated water.
- Have HVAC systems serviced to reduce indoor humidity and prevent dampness.
- In basements, use dehumidifiers and moisture barriers under carpet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Mildew from Carpets
What is the fastest way to get mildew smell out of carpet?
Sprinkle baking soda or borax generously over the carpet. Let sit for a few hours to absorb odors, then vacuum. Combining with vinegar or enzymatic cleaners boosts deodorizing power.
Does vinegar remove mildew from carpet?
Yes, white vinegar is highly effective at killing mold and mildew. Its high acidity removes stains and destroys odor-causing bacteria. Spray or wipe vinegar onto affected areas and allow to dry fully.
How do you get mildew out of old carpet?
Attack stains with an enzymatic cleaner. Soak the area, then blot. Rinse with clean water and extract excess moisture. Follow up by sprinkling a deodorizer like baking soda or borax over the entire carpet before vacuuming thoroughly.
What stain remover kills mildew?
Hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, borax, and oxalic acid (wood bleach) can kill mildew and lift stains. Check for carpet colorfastness before using. Always rinse completely with water to avoid damage or discoloration.
Does Lysol kill mildew in carpet?
Yes, Lysol products containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide work well on mildew stains and odors. Spray a Lysol cleaner like their Disinfectant Max Cover Mist onto affected areas. Allow it to soak in and kill mildew before blotting dry.
Conclusion
Mildew stains and odors can be frustrating, but with determination and the right techniques you can successfully remove mildew from your carpets. Combining stain removers, deodorizers, thorough drying and professional cleaning when needed will keep your carpets fresh and free of musty mildew smells. With preventive maintenance and prompt treatment of spills, you can avoid recurring bouts of ugly black mildew in your carpets.