Mould growth in its early stages may not be visible. Not only does growth occur in carpet fibres, but also the backing, padding and subflooring, depending on how wet the materials are. Once visible stains form on the material, cleaning may not be able to remove the discolouration and the carpet may have to be discarded.
Biological contaminants like mould, fungi spores and bacteria thrive in moist, damp environments. Melbourne’s wet winters provide ideal conditions for these pollutants to settle into and thrive in your home’s carpets and upholstery.
Mould and other biological contaminants are primary triggers of both allergies and asthma, so keeping them out of your home interior contributes to a healthy indoor environment.
The Health Department has found that mould can trigger nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, respiratory infections and worsen asthma and allergic conditions. People with weakened immune systems; allergies; severe asthma; chronic, obstructive, or allergic lung diseases are more susceptible to these symptoms and other serious health effects.
Many of these contaminants are airborne, circulating in a forced air heating system or entering a building through vents, doors and windows. Mould and fungi spores settle on surfaces and multiply in moist environments. Carpets, upholstery and other textiles like curtains are prime breeding grounds for these organisms.
Steam cleaning, or hot water extraction, reaches deep into the carpet to remove contaminants. Detergents are applied, and then thoroughly rinsed. A high-powered vacuum immediately removes both the water and the soiled material. Thorough drying within 12 hours prevents mould spores from resettling in the material. The carpet is dried using professional extraction techniques and blowers to increase air movement and speed up the evaporation process. Your carpets will be dry and ready to use in just a few hours.
There are several ways to prevent mould and fungi from establishing themselves in carpets, rugs, upholstery and other textiles in your home. Try to keep the level of humidity in your home as low as possible. Dehumidifiers can be used during wet seasons to remove moisture from the air. Keep air temperatures below 26 degrees Celsius. Make sure that your home has proper ventilation, particularly in rooms like bathrooms and kitchens. Ceiling fans increase air circulation, while exhaust fans remove moisture and pull in fresh air.
Vacuum carpets, rugs and upholstery regularly, at least once a week, to remove dust, mould spores and other contaminants. Have your carpets, rugs and upholstery cleaned professionally to ensure that the carpets, backing and padding are properly cleaned and dried.