When water damage strikes your carpeting, time is of the essence. The more prepared you are to act fast with a solid plan, the better your chances are of restoring the material to its original state. Before you write off the affected carpeting as an unfortunate loss, do what you can to mitigate the problem and avoid all the nasty side effects that come with water damage.

Top 5 Steps for Fixing Water-damaged Carpeting

1. Determine the Source of the Damage

Find the source of the water damage and ensure it's safe to proceed with carpet cleaning. Make sure no further damage is possible, and check that the water itself isn't contaminated. If it didn't come from a relatively clean source, you'll likely have to discard the carpet.

2. Dry as Soon as Possible

With the situation under control, drying your carpet quickly is of the utmost importance. If you have access to one, a vacuum that can handle liquids will help, and humidifiers and blowers will speed up the process. You'll need to discard any padding, though, because its inability to properly dry will only exacerbate any mold and mildew concerns.

3. Clean the Carpet Appropriately

The type of carpet you have will determine which cleaner is most appropriate and whether you opt for renting a machine, employing your own at-home machine, or calling upon the pros. Even if you have white carpets, though, you should avoid bleaching. This process won't just strip coloring — it could potentially damage the flooring and the backside of the carpet.

4. Apply an Anti-microbial Cleaner

Once your thorough cleaning is complete, use an anti-microbial cleaner. This is the best way to stave off the growth of any potential mold that made it through the cleaning process. Mold is a serious concern that can impact the health of those within the building, especially anyone with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory problems.

5. Consult With a Professional Carpet Cleaner

If all else fails, it's time to call in a carpet cleaning service. Professionals have experience with these situations, from the most effective methods of drying water-damaged carpeting to mold and mildew remediation. If you're unsure about your ability to fully salvage your carpet, they'll be able to tell if it's really a lost cause.

When water damage calls for a professional touch, you can count on Polar Carpet Cleaning of Anchorage, AK. Their intensive two-step carpet and rug cleaning system is perfect for both residents and businesses throughout the area, and their team is dedicated to eliminating the risk of further mold and mildew growth. Check out their website for an overview of their services, and call them at (907) 227-5953 to request your free estimate today.