How to dry a wet carpet

Whether the result of external flooding, a burst pipe or another incident, having a wet carpet can be a stressful experience. It is vital that you get to work as soon as possible to prevent further damage. A wet carpet can cause damage to walls, sub-flooring and furniture and be a breeding ground for mould. In the worst cases, particularly if external flooding is involved, you will need to rip out the carpet and replace it once the property is dry. Luckily, as long as the damage is not too severe, you should be able to remedy the situation yourself without too much expense or hassle. Here are some tips to help you get the situation under control quickly.

Clear the affected room

The first thing to do is to move everything away from the area of the wet carpet. Place all your furniture in a dry place away from the wet carpet to prevent damage.

Start removing the water

Depending on the amount of water, it might be possible to remove most of it with dry towels. Lay towels over the affected area and walk over them to help them absorb as much water as possible. Wring out the towels when they are soaked through and keep going until you have removed as much water as possible. For larger areas, a vacuum that can suck up water is a good option. You should be able to rent one fairly easily if your vacuum is not able to suck up water.

Another option to help you soak up the water is diatomaceous earth. While this is safe for humans and pets, it can be a little messy and you will need to vacuum it up once it is no longer absorbing water. You can move it around the floor with a broom to ensure it collects water from as much of the carpet as possible.

Begin the drying process

Use a fan to circulate air and help your carpets to dry out more quickly. Dehumidifiers can also help to speed up the process. It is important to ensure the room is ventilated to help dry out the carpet and prevent mould from forming in the humid conditions. If possible, leave the windows open for a few days after the flooding incident to ensure the air continues to circulate. Many DIY stores will have products you can sprinkle over the carpet when it is almost dry to help prevent mould from forming.