7 Steps to Remove Mildew and Musty Odors from Carpets

A musty-smelling carpet isn’t just unpleasant; it could be a sign of a bigger issue like mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More or hidden water damage. That musty odorAn odor is a smell, often detectable by the human nose, whic... More is often the first warning that something’s not right, and if left untreated, it can leadLead is a heavy metal that can be toxic to humans, especiall... More to serious health risks and permanent damage to your carpet.

The good news? In many cases, you can eliminate that smell with some simple steps using common household products. Here’s how to tackle mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More and musty odors before they take over your home.

What Causes Musty Smells in Carpets?

Musty or mildew-like smells usually come from moisture trapped in the carpet fibers. This could be from a spill that wasn’t fully dried, high humidityHumidity is the amount of moisture or water vapor present in... More in your home, or even water damage that wasn’t properly cleaned up. Over time, that moisture can become a breeding ground for moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More, mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More, and bacteria. If your carpet smells off and the room feels a little damp, it’s best to act quickly before the problem spreads.

Some common sources of trapped moisture include:

• Overwatering plants near carpeted areas
• Leaky pipes or faucets
• Wet shoes or boots
• Pet accidents that aren’t cleaned properly
• Humid basements with poor ventilationVentilation is the process of exchanging or circulating air ... More

Can Mold in Carpet Make You Sick?

Yes, moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More and mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More in carpets can cause serious health problems, especially for those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Even if you can’t see the moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More, the sporesSpores are microscopic reproductive units of fungi or mold t... More can become airborne and affect your indoor air qualityIndoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the condition of the air ... More.

Symptoms may include:

• Persistent coughing or sneezing
• Headaches or fatigue
• Skin rashes
• Watery eyes or nasal congestion
• Respiratory distress

If these symptoms worsen at home or improve when you leave the house, moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More could be the culprit.

How to Tell If There’s Mold or Mildew in Your Carpet

MoldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More isn’t always visible — especially if it’s growing underneath the carpet or padding. But there are a few signs to watch for:

• Persistent musty smell
• Dark or discolored patches
• A damp or squishy feeling
• Increased humidityHumidity is the amount of moisture or water vapor present in... More in the room
• History of floodingFlooding is the overflow or accumulation of water in areas t... More or leaks
• Unexplained health issues

If you identify any of these signs, it is essential to take immediate action to remove the moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More and prevent further damage. Although moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More can be difficult to identify, professional mold remediationMold remediation is the process of identifying, removing, an... More specialists are available to help you identify if there is mold growth. MoldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More under the carpet can spread quickly and cause serious health and structural issues if not addressed.

7 Steps to Remove the Mildew and Musty Odors from Carpet

1. Dry the Carpet Thoroughly

Moisture is the root cause of most carpet odors. Use fans, open windows, or a dehumidifierA dehumidifier is a device that removes excess moisture from... More to remove moisture. If the carpet was soaked due to floodingFlooding is the overflow or accumulation of water in areas t... More or a major leak, you may need to replace the padding underneath or call a professional water damage restoration company.

2. Vacuum the Area

Once dry, vacuum slowly and thoroughly using a high-efficiency vacuum, preferably one with a HEPA filter to trap moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More sporesSpores are microscopic reproductive units of fungi or mold t... More and fine particles.

3. Spray with a Vinegar Solution

Mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 2 cups of water. Spray lightly over the affected area. Vinegar helps neutralize odors and has antimicrobial properties. Allow the area to air dry with good ventilationVentilation is the process of exchanging or circulating air ... More.

4. Apply Baking Soda Generously

Sprinkle baking soda over the treated area and leave it overnight. It’s a safe, natural deodorizer that absorbs lingering odors and moisture.

5. Vacuum Again

Vacuum up the baking soda. Repeat if necessary to fully remove residueResidue is any leftover material, such as soot, dust, or che... More and lingering smells.

6. Use Hydrogen Peroxide (Optional)

Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 5 parts water and spray the area lightly. Test in a small hidden spot first to avoid discoloration. This helps kill moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More sporesSpores are microscopic reproductive units of fungi or mold t... More and bacteria.

7. Try Foam Carpet Shampoo

If the odorAn odor is a smell, often detectable by the human nose, whic... More lingers, use a store-bought carpet foam shampoo. Apply, scrub gently with a spongeA sponge is a porous material used to absorb liquids or clea... More, and allow it to dry completely. Then vacuum to remove residueResidue is any leftover material, such as soot, dust, or che... More.

How to Prevent Musty Odors from Returning

PreventionPrevention refers to actions taken to reduce the likelihood ... More is key to keeping your carpet fresh and your home healthy. Here are a few actionable tips:

• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements or laundry rooms.
• Clean spills right away and dry the area thoroughly.
• Vacuum carpets regularly to prevent dust and bacteria buildup.
• Use area rugs in moisture-prone areas and clean them frequently.
• Improve air circulation with ceiling fans or open windows.
• Get professional carpet cleaning at least once a year.

Natural Alternatives for Carpet Odor Removal

If you’re looking for eco-friendly or pet-safe options, here are some alternatives to chemical cleaners:

• Essential oils (like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus) can be added to vinegar sprays for extra odor-fighting power.
• Activated charcoal sachets can absorb moisture and odors from the air and carpet.
• Enzyme-based cleaners are great for pet stains and organic odors.

When to Call a Professional Carpet Cleaner or Mold Remediation Specialist

While many stains, moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More damage, and musty odors can be removed with products at home, others will need some extra effort.

If you feel that you have exhausted all efforts, or just don’t want to deal with it, you can call on mold remediation professionals. These technicians will apply commercial-grade products, using personal protection equipment (PPE) to get rid of the mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More and musty smell from the carpet once and for all.

They will also use a truck-mounted system to clean the carpets professionally, removing the embedded moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More sporesSpores are microscopic reproductive units of fungi or mold t... More and debris to restore a like-new look to the carpet. Finally, they can provide the peace of mind of not having to worry about the threat of mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More returning to bring back that musty smell.

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FAQs – Removing Mold and Musty Odors from Carpet

How long does vinegar take to kill moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More on carpet?

Vinegar typically takes at least 1 hour to kill moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More on carpet surfaces. After spraying the affected area with white vinegar, let it sit undisturbed for 60 minutes before scrubbing and dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More thoroughly.

Can moldy carpet be saved?

Moldy carpet can be saved if the moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More is minor and caught early. However, if the moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More has spread to the carpet padding or subfloorThe subfloor is the foundational layer beneath flooring mate... More, replacement may be necessary to fully eliminate the problem and prevent health risks.

Will moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More come back after vinegar?

MoldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More can come back after vinegar treatment if the area stays moist or isn’t properly dried. To prevent recurrence, combine vinegar with thorough dryingDrying is the process of removing moisture from materials, s... More and improved ventilationVentilation is the process of exchanging or circulating air ... More to eliminate the conditions moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More needs to grow.

Will shampooing carpet remove mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More smell?

Shampooing the carpet may reduce mildewMildew is a type of fungus that grows on damp surfaces, typi... More odorAn odor is a smell, often detectable by the human nose, whic... More, but it won’t fully remove moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More sporesSpores are microscopic reproductive units of fungi or mold t... More or prevent regrowth. For lasting results, pair carpet shampoo with odorAn odor is a smell, often detectable by the human nose, whic... More neutralizers like baking soda and ensure the area is completely dry.

Can you remove moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More from carpet yourself?

Yes, you can remove minor moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More from carpet yourself using household items like vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. For severe moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More or health concerns, it’s best to call a professional carpet cleaner or mold remediationMold remediation is the process of identifying, removing, an... More specialist.