There’s no doubt that carpets are great to have because of how they improve the aesthetic look of your indoors. However, unlike floor tiles, carpets are built from materials that can easily absorb stuff and if left uncleaned, then it can produce odors as a result.
It can sometimes be impossible to narrow down what could have caused your carpets to smell like that because you might not have been there when it happened. But if you do happen to figure it out, then you can take some preventive measures to ensure that such a mistake won’t repeat itself.
So, for this one, we’ll provide you with some common reasons why carpets have got a smelly odor.
- Mold and mildew
The biggest problem associated with mold and mildew in your carpet is the health risk they pose. The moldy, musty smell is the late warning sign that something nasty is growing where you can’t see it, most likely under the carpet padding.
- Concrete slab
All concrete slabs have moisture in them. Sometimes, an underground moisture source may continually add moisture to the slab. If the slab is holding more moisture than its surroundings, the excess moisture will evaporate. The carpet underlayment may absorb it all, which can lead to mold or mildew. Moisture may also get into the carpet fibers. Source: Wagner Meters
- Organic Material From Pet Accidents, Food, or Drinks
Some of the most common carpet messes are household spills. You may have cleaned up these accidents when they occurred, but the smell can really linger—even when you can no longer see the stain.
If you have pets and suspect the odor may be from a training accident, or if the smell in your carpet is reminiscent of a specific food spill, it may be from gases released by bacteria that feed on that organic material. Any trace of these materials left in your carpet will allow that bacteria to keep growing, feeding, and producing smells.
If your odor is truly from an organic source, make an enzymatic odor remover your go-to. Also called “enzymatic cleaner” on store shelves, these products break down the enzymes (that’s the organic material) that attract bacteria, eliminating the smell at its source. Source: Angi
- Lack of Ventilation
In spaces without much airflow, stinky carpet is more likely to occur. Without adequate ventilation, dust, pet dander and other fine particulates can collect on rugs and carpeting. Over time, these impurities may decompose like debris left over from spills, leading to odors.
- Dirt and Debris
Sometimes, your feet or shoes may be the source of carpet odors. Tracking dirt and debris onto soft floor coverings can introduce contaminants that emit VOCs over time. Sweat and bacteria from skin could also contribute to carpet odors. Source: Fresh Wave
If you think your carpets smell, it’s best to have it sorted out as soon as possible. It can be unpleasant for everyone, and it might even worsen when it gets mixed up with other stuff as well. Just give us a call!
