Hidden Mould Could Be Thriving in Your Home's Carpets - Learn How to Eliminate It Here
Mould, a common find in damp homes, isn't just limited to walls and work surfaces. It can also be found on various surfaces, including carpets, floors, sinks, drains, and even sheets.
According to Henry Patterson, a cleaning expert at Housekeep, carpets are particularly susceptible to mould growth. This is due to their ability to trap moisture within the fibers, which provides an ideal environment for mould to thrive.
The frequent occurrence of mould on carpets indicates a likely presence of moisture or damp conditions. Household spillages that aren't cleared up properly can contribute to mould growth on carpets.
To control the spread of infections to humans, especially in bathrooms and toilets where moisture is abundant, good floor hygiene is essential. Regularly vacuuming is important for removing dirt, bacteria, and allergens from carpets.
Vacuuming can reduce mould on all types of flooring, with varying percentages: 99% on real wood and LVT flooring, 96% on laminate flooring, and 66% on carpets. However, removing mould from carpet may require additional methods, but tackling invisible spores is the best way to prevent it from spreading.
Floor wipes on hard flooring have a 30% reduction rate in mould, and steaming has a 28% reduction rate. It's also important to empty the vacuum container and clean or replace the filter after each use to prevent dirt and bacteria from building up in the vacuum cleaner.
Carpets can harbor bacteria and other nasties that are trampled in from elsewhere. The most common type of bacteria found on floors is mould. Mould was found on all carpets tested, but not always visible to the naked eye.
Mould on skirting boards, which are in close proximity to carpet, may not be directly caused by the carpet but is worth checking for signs of mould under the flooring. Interestingly, mould was more prevalent in households where shoes were worn indoors.
Mould on flooring can lead to serious problems if not tackled at source, as it can cause infections in those with weakened immune systems. It's crucial to remove any mould spores from the vacuum cleaner after use to prevent dirt and bacteria from building up.
A study found that the bathroom floor had the most mould, followed by the hallway/stairs, then the bedroom. This underscores the importance of maintaining good floor hygiene in these areas to prevent the spread of mould.
In conclusion, while carpets can add a touch of warmth and comfort to our homes, they also pose a hidden risk of mould growth. By adopting good floor hygiene practices, including regular vacuuming and prompt cleaning of spillages, we can minimise this risk and ensure our homes remain healthy and safe.
