How Do I Clean up a Water-soaked Carpet?

Over the last few years, we have had water in our basement due to foundation cracks several times. With the exception of the first time, we were able to salvage the carpet each time. The key is that you need to get rid of the padding underneath QUICKLY. Pull up the carpet, cut out the padding and put a fan underneath the carpet to dry it out. If it is starting to smell, then yes it is either mildew or mold growing. We worked with a fire and flood restoration company, and the key they told us is to get rid of the padding and get the carpet dry. Replacing the padding is relatively inexpensive, and you can replace only a small section with no problems.

Do you have a fan that you can place near the spill and let it run constantly? I would be concerned about growth of mold under the carpet, etc., especially if you are having irritation. I would recommend calling a water damage restoration company and getting a quote. Also, if the carpet needs to be replaced, it may be possible for them to replace a spot, rather than the whole room. Some carpet professionals are very good at matching up, and you may not really notice, especially since it is under a plant. Good luck. Water messes are never fun.

if the carpet is still damp, get a few towels, put them on the area affected, and put a heavy object on top (such as a toy chest) - it will wick-up the moisture. Don't bother it for at least 24 hours and repeat as necessary.

I'd also recommend at least calling a professional service to see what they recommend.

You should get a dehumidifier and run it in the room until no more water get picked up. My last apartment had water in the carpet and nothing helped so I call the health inspector because the carpet kept getting moldy and the apartment manager wouldn't do anything about it and the health inspector told them to put a dehumidifier in to get rid of the water. It wasn't soaking wet but it was a basement apartment so it was always damp. My carpet was so bad it took 2 weeks to get rid of it but it worked. I didn't have anymore problems after that.

Hi V.,
My name is D. and i recomend the h20 mop, it will clean the carpet, remove the stain and smell
Good Luck , D. from Freelton,Ont.