How to Dry Wool Carpet After Water Damage

The many benefits of wool carpeting, including durability and style, make it a popular option for your home. However, if a flood or a leak occurs, you will need to act fast to dry the carpet quickly. The number one side effect of water damage is mold, and it can happen in just 24 hours in wool carpet. So, it is important to know how to dry wool carpet.

How to Dry Wool Carpet

To protect your wool carpet’s long lifespan as well as your home’s indoor air quality, observe the following steps after your carpet gets wet.

1. Remove as much water as possible.

Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove excess water from carpet fibers. Vacuum slowly to avoid damage but be sure to keep an eye on the fill line, so you don’t accidentally spill back on the rug.

Another option is to use towels or other types of linens to soak up water from the carpet. Be sure to blot the areas instead of rubbing them. Rubbing will cause fuzz and pilling. Walking across the towels is a good method for absorption. Remove wet towels quickly and continue the process until you don’t see any more wet spots on the linens.

2. Speed up the drying process.

Opening windows and using the ceiling and portable fans will assist with the drying process. It can take time for the carpet to dry completely, so keep the fans in place for a few days. High-power drying fans can also be rented to shorten drying time.

If you have a dehumidifier, have it active in the room as well. It removes any excess moisture, which cools the room and helps prevent mold and mildew buildup. Further, drying out the air also speeds up the drying process.

3. Check the padding and flooring beneath the carpet.

If there is water below the padding on the floor, follow steps one and two to get it to dry out.

If the carpet padding is soaked through, your best bet is to replace it. The material makes it difficult to save, and it’s the only way to prevent mold. Replacing padding is less costly than re-carpeting an entire area.

4. Steam-clean your carpet.

Finally, use a steam cleaner to sanitize and deodorize the carpet. It is a good idea to hire a professional to do this anyway, ideally every few months. This prevents moisture or other allergens from becoming trapped in the thick carpet, causing hidden health concerns.

It is possible to thoroughly dry wool carpet and save it after a storm or if a leak has caused water damage. The key is working quickly and allowing plenty of drying time. Doing so will keep the carpet looking and performing well for years to come.

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