Removing mould from carpets doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to be done correctly. Even dead mould can be harmful to health. There are many pitfalls that are commonly fallen into, including carpets being destroyed by chlorine bleach.
Preparation: Safety First
Wear Protective Gear:
Always wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection to avoid inhaling mould spores or having them come into contact with your skin.
Delicate Fibres:
Some carpets are made from delicate fabrics, including wool, natural fibres, and sensitive dyes. The process and products discussed in this guideline may not be suitable for such a fibre. Furthermore, mould growth and moisture conditions may have damaged or destabilised fibres and dyes. Always pretest in an inconspicuous location. Mould removal on these delicate fibres should only be attempted by trained personnel.
Vacuum the Carpet:
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove loose mould spores from the carpet surface. Dispose of the vacuum bag or contents immediately after use to prevent the spread of spores.
Equipment
Actichem RG Mould Remover
Environmentally responsible, GECA-approved mould remover and sanitiser. The Mould Remover is formulated with a dual biocide system that kills mould down to the roots, removing both the bacteria and the staining. The super-wetting abilities of the Mould Remover allow it to penetrate deep into the carpet fibres, making it much more effective than general mould removers.
To remove mould on carpet, you will need:
- The Actichem RG615 Mould Remover. Always pretest in a small, inconspicuous location to check for fibre chemical sensitivity.
- Carpet scrubbing brush.
- Wet extraction equipment (or wet & dry vacuum)
- PPE, including eye protection and gloves.
Ensure that you have read and understood the safety data sheet and technical information for all chemical products used. This includes a thorough understanding of directions for use and the limitations and capabilities of each product.
Important Note
All methods and procedures should be according to the IICRC S300-2000 Standard And Reference Guide For Professional Upholstery Cleaning. Including requirements for PPE, personnel safety, containment systems and documentation requirements.
The Process
-
Apply Solution
Spray the Mould Remover onto the affected area. You will see the Mould Remover begin to fizz where there is mould. This is the peroxide reacting with the organic mould matter, lifting it to the surface so it can be washed away. It is an excellent visual aid to indicate where mould is present, as mould isn’t always visible to the eye.
-
Agitiate
Agitate the affected area with the scrubbing brush. This will ensure the solution penetrates the surface. Although some areas are unreachable, where possible, agitation will make a big difference.
-
Dwell Time
Leave the Mould Remover to dwell for at least 10 minutes. Dwell time is crucial to achieving optimal results. It will allow the solution to reach and fully eradicate the mould spores.
-
Extract
Extract the solution using a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. Extraction ensures the solution and mould are thoroughly removed from the carpet. Open windows and doors to ensure good air circulation, which helps to reduce mould spores in the air and speed up the drying process.
-
Prevention
Once the substrate is free of the solution, allow it to dry. Then apply a light spray of the Mould Remover as a preventive measure, helping ensure minimal regrowth of mould spores.
Further Notes
-
Alternative product
If the Mould Remover is unavailable or not removing the mould, then try Percide diluted 1:1 (500ml Percide to 500ml water).
-
Pre-treatment process
Scope out the area to be treated. Remove items that may be damaged by the process and set up any protective sheeting to protect adjoining and surrounding surfaces (e.g., upholstery, benchtops, furniture, etc). Shut down mechanical ventilation systems, including air-conditioning systems. Thoroughly HEPA vacuum the area to be treated where possible.
-
Previous surface damage
Please note that these treatment directions assume that the mould has not damaged the host surface.
-
Washing Equipment
Clean all washing equipment with a fresh solution of Mould Remover, then rinse in clean water.
Where To Buy
Mould Remover
Oxygen powered mould & microorganism disinfectant
Oxygen powered mould & microorganism disinfectant
Find a Stockist
