What to Do if Carpet Gets Wet?

1. Identify the Source of Water

- Clean Water: From a leaky pipe, rainwater, etc.

- Dirty Water: From sewage backup, floodwater, etc. For dirty water, consider professional cleaning due to health risks.

 

2. Remove Excess Water

- Absorb Water: Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to absorb as much water as possible.

- Press Down: Apply pressure with towels to soak up water deep in the carpet.

 

3. Move Furniture

- Prevent Stains: Move furniture off the wet carpet to avoid stains or rust.

- Protect Furniture: Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent damage if moving is not possible.

 

4. Dry the Carpet

- Fans: Use fans to circulate air over the carpet.

- Dehumidifiers: These can help remove moisture from the air. PREAIR provides the best affordable basement dehumidifier. Contact us if you want to bulk buy dehumidifiers.

- Open Windows: Increase ventilation if weather permits.

 

5. Lift the Carpet

- Padding: If the carpet is very wet, lift it to check the padding. If the padding is soaked, it may need to be replaced.

- Air Flow: Lifting the carpet edges can help air circulation and drying.

 

6. Disinfect and Clean

- Mild Cleaner: Use a mild detergent or carpet cleaner to clean the affected area.

- Disinfect: For clean water, a vinegar solution can help disinfect. For dirty water, consider professional-grade disinfectants.

 

7. Check for Mold

- Inspect Regularly: Check for mold growth over the next few days. Look for discolored patches or musty odors.

- Professional Help: If you find mold, consider professional mold remediation services.

 

8. Final Drying

- Complete Drying: Ensure the carpet and padding are completely dry before laying the carpet back down.

- Inspect: Check the subfloor for any moisture and let it dry if necessary.

 

9. Professional Cleaning

- Deep Cleaning: Consider a professional deep cleaning service to ensure all moisture and potential contaminants are removed.

 

10. Prevent Future Issues

- Fix Leaks: Address the source of the water to prevent future incidents.

- Waterproofing: Consider waterproofing options for your home if prone to leaks or flooding.

 

Acting quickly and thoroughly is key to preventing damage and health risks when dealing with wet carpets.