How To Dry A Wet Carpet

We’ve all been there — a spilled drink, a leaky pipe or even a flood can leave your carpet soaking wet. It’s a nightmare scenario, but don’t panic! With the right approach, you can dry your carpet and potentially save it from permanent damage.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to dry a wet carpet and when it’s time to call in the professionals.

Step one: Extract the Water

The moment you discover your wet carpet, it’s crucial to act fast. The longer water sits in your carpet, the higher the risk of mould growth and permanent damage. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Remove as much standing water as possible using towels, mops or a wet vacuum. 
2. If you have access to a wet vac, use it to extract as much water from the carpet as you can. Make several passes over the affected area. 
3. Don’t forget to check and dry the underlay if it’s been affected.

Step two: Air dry the carpet

Once you’ve removed as much water as possible, it’s time to focus on drying. Here are some effective methods:

1. Open windows and doors to improve air circulation 
2. Use fans to blow air across the wet carpet. Position them at different angles to ensure even drying 
3. If you have a dehumidifier, set it up in the room. This will help remove moisture from the air and speed up the drying process. 
4. For small areas, you can use a hairdryer. Hold it a few inches from the carpet and move in a back-and-forth motion. Allow the area to cool before checking if it’s dry, as the warmth can be misleading

Remember, drying a carpet thoroughly can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the extent of the water damage.

Step three: Monitor and maintain

Even after your carpet appears dry, it’s important to stay vigilant. Here’s how to ensure your carpet is completely dry and prevent any lasting damage:

1. Check for dampness regularly by pressing your hand firmly into the carpet and underlay.
2. Listen for any squelching sounds when walking across the carpet.
3. Watch for any musty odours that could indicate mould growth.
4. Keep the room well-ventilated for at least 48 hours after the incident.
5. Consider using a carpet powder deodoriser once the carpet is completely dry.

When to call the professionals

While these steps can be effective for minor spills, some situations require expert help. Consider calling John Frederick Ltd if:

1. The water damage covers a large area.
2. The water is contaminated (such as from sewage or flooding).
3. You notice musty smells even after drying.
4. You can’t fully dry the carpet within 24-48 hours.
5. You’re concerned about potential damage to valuable carpets.

With over nine decades of experience, we’ve honed our carpet drying techniques to perfection. We use state-of-the-art equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure your carpet is not only dry but also clean and fresh.

Don’t let a wet carpet dampen your spirits. Whether you need advice on DIY drying methods or professional carpet cleaning services, John Frederick Ltd is here to help.