How to Remove Mildew Stains from Carpet: Best Guide
Having trouble while cleaning cranberry stains from carpet! We have brought you the best DIY methods on ‘how to remove mildew stains from carpet‘. Don’t panic, just follow our methods and feel an ethic of accomplishment.
Mold and mildew can develop quickly in damp and humid conditions, and carpeted areas are prime locations for the growth of these harmful fungi (Mucor plumbeus ; Microsporum canis)). The problem with mildew on carpets is that it not only looks unsightly but also produces a foul odor.
Mold and mildew can also cause health problems, especially for individuals with respiratory issues. It is important to take immediate action when dealing with mildew stains on carpet to prevent mold regrowth.
Cleaning up mildew stains from carpets may seem like a tedious task, but it’s essential for maintaining the integrity of your carpet and keeping your living spaces healthy.
There are several ways to remove mildew stains from carpets, but using vinegar is an effective and inexpensive solution. We will discuss some easy and effective techniques to remove mildew stains from carpets.
DIY Methods: How to Remove Mildew Stains From Carpet:
1. Removing Mildew Stains With Laundry Detergent:
One of the best ways is to deep clean or shampoo the whole carpet when there is visible mold (Mucor plumbeus) or mildew growth with stains on your carpet. Shampooing carpets is also a good disinfection method. Learn how to sanitize your carpets at home with laundry detergent or dish soap?
Supplies Needed:
- Paper towels or clean soft cloth
- Clean water
- Laundry detergent or, shampoo or, liquid dish soap
- Spraying bottle
- Soft brush or scrubber
- Rubber gloves
- Vacuum machine
Step 1: Vacuuming The Whole carpet
Vacuum the carpet with a proper suction setting and always vacuum in the direction of the carpets pile to prevent damage. Be gentle while vacuuming to avoid damaging the delicate fibers of your carpet.
Step 2: Preparing The Detergent Solution
In a bucket, combine warm water and a standard laundry detergent. Mix the solution gently to create a soapy mixture suitable for cleaning the carpet.
Step 3: Applying The Detergent Solution
Now gently apply the cleaning solution on the spots to be cleaned from the carpet and saturate them using a sponge. Do not overuse this cleaning solution.
Step 4: Brushing or Scrubbing The Stains
Now gently rub or scrub the mildew stained spots with a soft scrubber to work the cleaning solution properly. Then wait for 20 minutes. This will effectively loosen up the organic soda stains for easy removal. After 20 minutes, blot the rinsed spots with paper towels.
Step 5: Rinsing With Clean Cold Water
Now rinse the spots with clean water to remove any soapy residue. Keep rinsing and blotting the spots until the mildew stains along with all detergents and dirt residues are gone.
Step-6: Drying The Spots
Finally, dry up the washed spots automatically or you can use a heat drier for quick drying.
Repeat the whole process if necessary for better results.
2. Removing Mildew Stains With Hydrogen Peroxide & Ammonia:
For tougher stains, you can also use a combination of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. The recommended peroxide percentage for household cleanings is 3% and 6% H2O2.
Supplies Needed:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Ammonia
- Clean water
- A soft brush or sponge
- Paper towels or dry cloth
- Rubber gloves
- Vacuum machine
Step 1: Vacuuming The Whole carpet
Vacuum the whole carpet with a proper suction setting in the direction of the carpets pile to prevent damage. It will remove the loose dirt and debris along with the mold (Mucor plumbeus) and other fungus (Microsporum canis) spores from the carpet.
Step 2: Applying Hydrogen Peroxide
Next, apply hydrogen peroxide (3%) directly onto the mildew stains by pouring a small amount onto a cloth and dabbing onto the affected areas. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. After 10 minutes blot the spot with paper towels.
Step 3: Applying Ammonia
Then prepare a dilute solution of pure ammonia with water and pour it in a spraying bottle. Usually, 1 tablespoon of ammonia is added with 1 cup of water for dilution.
Apply the ammonia solution by pouring a small amount onto a cloth and dabbing onto the affected areas. Allow it to sit for about an hour before removing any excess moisture with paper towels.
Step -4: Drying:
Now let the cleaned spots dry up automatically with blowing air or, you can use a heat dryer which will save your valuable time.
Tips & Recommendation For Ammonia:
- Never mix pure ammonia with other carpet cleaners or chemicals to avoid health hazards.
- Read the user manual or manufacturer instructions before using ammonia.
- Always do a spot test before starting cleaning carpets with ammonia.
- Remember to always air out the room while cleaning to avoid inhaling any fumes.
3. Removing Mildew Stains From Carpet With White Vinegar & Baking Soda:
If you have visible mold growth on your carpet, it may not be salvageable and should be disposed of and replaced. However, if you have mildew stains on your carpet that you want to remove, follow these steps:
Supplies Needed:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Clean Water
- Paper towels
- Spraying bottle
- A Hepa Vacuum Cleaner
Step 1: Identify Visible Mold Growth
Inspect your carpet for visible mold growth. If you see any, the carpet may not be salvageable and should be thrown away and replaced.
Step 2: Use A Hepa Vacuum Cleaner
Rent (or purchase, if affordable) a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and thoroughly vacuum the carpet to remove any loose mold spores or mildew stains.
Step 3: Applying White Vinegar
Mix a solution of one part white vinegar and two parts warm water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture on the mildew stains and let it sit for at least an hour.
Step 4: Applying Baking Soda
Then sprinkle baking soda on top of the wet area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before vacuuming it up with the HEPA vacuum cleaner.
Step 5: Use An Anti-fungal Treatment
If the mildew stains persist, use an anti-fungal treatment specifically designed for carpet. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the treatment to dry completely before vacuuming the carpet once more with the HEPA vacuum cleaner.
4. Removing Mildew Stains With White Vinegar:
You can apply vinegar directly to the mildew stains on the carpet for removal. Vinegar is a natural and effective way to remove mildew stains from carpet.
Supplies Needed:
- White vinegar
- Paper towels
- Spraying bottle
- Clean water
- A soft bristle brush
- A vacuum cleaner
Step 1: Vacuuming The Carpet
Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and thoroughly vacuum the carpet to remove any loose mold spores or mildew stains.
Step 2: Preparing The Vinegar Solution
Mix a solution of one part vinegar and two parts warm water in a spray bottle.
Step 3: Applying The Vinegar Solution
Spray the mixture onto the moldy surface and let it sit for at least an hour.
Step 4: Brushing or Scrubbing The Stains
After that, scrub the moldy surface with a soft-bristled brush until the mold comes off. Now blot the spots with paper towels
Step 5: Rinsing With Clean Water
Now rinse the spots with clean water to remove any residues left. Keep rinsing and blotting the spots until the mildew stains are gone.
Step-6: Drying The Spots
Finally, dry up the washed spots automatically or you can use a heat drier for quick drying.
Repeat the whole process if necessary for better results.
5. Dry Cleaning Mildew Stains From Carpet:
Apply the dry cleaning solution onto the mildew spots and let it sit for at least an hour. After that, vacuum the area again to dry it. Make sure to store the carpet in a cool, dry place to prevent mildew from forming again.
How To Dry Clean Your Carpets Yourself: 5 Easy Steps
Final Suggestions:
- Using a fabric cleaner can also be useful in removing mildew stains.
- Using anti-fungal treatment or steam cleaning can also be effective in removing mildew stains.
- You can also hire a professional carpet cleaner to get rid of stubborn stains. Remember to always remove excess moisture and keep the carpet dry to prevent mildew from forming in the future.
- In extreme cases where there is visible mold growth, it’s best to dispose of and replace the carpet.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can Mildewed Carpet Be Saved?
Mildewed carpet is salvageable if the mold growth is not visible. You can remove the stains by using a solution of one-part vinegar and two parts warm water. Spray the solution on the affected area, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum up the moisture.
However, if visible mold growth is present, it is best to dispose of the carpet and replace it.
What Kills Mildew On Carpet?
To kill mildew on carpet, mix one-part vinegar with two-parts warm water in a spray bottle, then spray it onto the carpet. Vinegar will eliminate and break down the structure of mold slowly. Another option is to hire a professional carpet cleaner, rent a HEPA vacuum cleaner or use an anti-fungal treatment.
How Do You Remove Dried Mildew Stains?
To remove dried mildew stains, mix a solution of one part vinegar and two parts warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the carpet and scrub the area with a brush with soft bristles until the mildew comes off.
Vinegar is effective in breaking down the structure of mold and eliminating it naturally.
Does Vinegar Remove Mildew Stains?
Yes, vinegar can remove mildew stains. Mix one part vinegar with two parts warm water in a spray bottle and spray onto the stain. Let it sit for at least an hour and then scrub the area with a soft-bristled brush until the mildew comes off.
Vinegar is a natural and mildly acidic solution that can break down mold and eliminate the odor.
What Causes Mildew Stains On Carpets?
Mildew stains on carpets are generally caused by excess moisture, lack of ventilation, and high humidity levels.
Conclusion:
Mildew stains on your carpet can be tough to remove, but with the right tools and solution at your disposal, you can get rid of them effectively. Whether you opt for the laundry detergent and vacuum method, or you choose to go for vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, the key is to act fast and be diligent in the cleaning process.
Now that you know ‘how to remove mildew stains from carpet‘ you can keep your home free of unsightly marks and unpleasant odors.