Growing up in the UK you should be quite familiar with carpets – in fact, the carpet and rug market is estimated to grow at a rate of 0.36% for the next five years. However, over time, carpets tend to hold onto odours due to spills, pet accidents, humidity, and bacteria buildup. No one likes to stay in a stinky house, and they can also signal deep-set bacteria or mould growth. While deep cleaning can help, in cases where the stink or stench persists, it’s time to replace the carpet altogether.
Why Do Carpets Absorb and Hold Odours?
Carpets are made of absorbent fibres. Unlike hard flooring like hardwood and tiles, they trap moisture and debris like a sponge, leaving lingering smells in your house.
● Humidity: Moisture encourages the growth of mould between carpet fibres; learn how to get mildew smell out of carpet before it worsens.
● Dirt, Pet Dander and Spills: Over time, organic matter like pet hair breaks down and produces unpleasant odours that become difficult to remove.
● Bacteria and Mould Growth: Carpets provide warmth, moisture and organic substances for bacteria and mould to grow rapidly.
● Lack of Ventilation: Poor airflow allows musty smells to settle into carpet fibres.
● Pet Urine: The litter seeps deep into the fibres and penetrate beyond the carpet fibres into the padding, while the proteins and ammonia can break down over time and release strong odours.
How to Get Smell Out of Carpet?
There are several effective ways to eliminate carpet odours: depending on the size of the affected area, the severity of the smell, and the available cleaning products, try vacuuming and targeted treatments with natural deodorisers for commercial cleaners. For deep cleaning, steam cleaners or enzyme cleaners can offer great help.
Robot Vacuum
Robot vacuums are worth investing in for taking over the daily duty of carpet cleaning. Premium models like DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI carries 18,000 Pa strong suction 1 that captures allergens and particles that could produce stinky smells; plus, its "Carpet First" feature avoids carpet wetting and contamination: this vacuum recognises various carpet types and shapes, vacuuming all carpets first with a dry mop. With scheduled cleaning cycles and auto-empty stations, these smart devices make a reliable solution for those wondering how to get odour out of carpet.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a tried-and-true natural method that neutralises common household odours. Regardless if it is for general cleaning or targeted treatments, simply sprinkle baking soda over the carpet, let it sit for several hours, and then vacuum it up. For those trying to find out how to get musty smells out of carpet, this method effectively absorbs excess moisture and odours, leaving your carpet noticeably fresher.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is another excellent option for neutralizing odours. Its acidity breaks down bacteria and gets rid of odours from a rug, especially stubborn pee smells. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, lightly mist your carpet and let it air dry. For those living with pets and children, white vinegar is also an eco-friendly alternative.
Other Natural Deodorisers
If you’re exploring sustainable ways to get odour out of carpet without using harsh chemicals, give these natural deodorisers a try. Activated charcoal absorbs impurities and odours, while sliced onions release natural compounds that neutralise unwanted smells, and essential oils provide a fresh scent while breaking down odour molecules.
Enzyme Cleaners
Pet owners understand the struggle of removing pee smell from carpets – no matter how much you scrub or air out the room, the smell seems to stay. Don’t get frustrated yet! Enzyme cleaners are specifically designed to break down organic compounds, including those from pet accidents. By targeting the proteins in urine, these cleaners work at a biological level to eliminate odours. For the best results, apply as directed and let the solution dry completely.
Carpet Powders & Foaming Carpet Sprays
Specialised carpet powders and foaming sprays are formulated to absorb and refresh lingering odours in carpet and rugs. Carpet powders work by absorbing moisture and odour molecules trapped in carpet fibres. Most formulas contain baking soda or activated charcoal, which help neutralise mildew and musty smells instead of just masking them. On the other hand, foaming carpet sprays penetrate deep into carpet fibres to break down bacteria and stains. Many formulas contain enzymes or oxygen-based cleaners, which effectively remove bad scents.
Steam Cleaners
A steam cleaner is a great way to deep clean your carpet. Unlike regular vacuuming, it penetrates deep into carpet fibres and uses high-temperature steam and powerful suction to loosen and break down embedded dirt, bacteria and tiny particles, which are the common sources of musty odours. Be aware of the carpet material, as the heat and moisture may damage certain fibres like silk, antique and handwoven rugs
How Can You Prevent Carpet Odours from Returning?
Preventing odours at their source is the first step in avoiding long-term damage to your delicate carpet and the hassle of constant cleaning. Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the reappearance of unpleasant smells.
Avoid Placing Carpet in High-Traffic Area
Food spills occur more frequently in the kitchen, while pet accidents tend to happen near their favourite spots in the house (near their bed, for example). Therefore, consider placing carpets elsewhere and avoid these “dangerous” areas to minimise the risk of moisture and debris buildup in your carpet.
Clean Up Spills Quickly
If an accident happens, act quickly to stop liquids from seeping deep into the fibres, as this can lead to mould and mildew growth and cause pee smell to linger in the carpet. Immediate cleanup of spills makes a significant difference in maintaining freshness.
Vacuum Regularly
Keeping your home free of dust and dirt is important for a healthy living environment. Regular vacuuming removes dust, pet hair and other debris that contribute to odour buildup. Set a maintenance schedule for your vacuum cleaner to lengthen its lifespan.
Keep Humidity Levels Low
Excess moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Maintaining low humidity in your home prevents mould and mildew from developing. Dehumidifiers and proper ventilation helps control moisture levels and control the risk of persistent odours returning.
Disclaimer(s):
● 18,000Pa: This data comes from ECOVACS laboratory. The suction power of DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI can reach 18,000Pa.
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