How to Get Wet Smell Out of Carpet: 7 Easy Steps 2023

There’s nothing worse than the unpleasant, musty smell of the wet carpet. Whether it’s from a leak, a spill, or just plain humidity, that wet smell can be unbearable and make your home feel less inviting.

But don’t worry! I’ll guide you through the process of removing that wet smell from your carpet, step by step. With a friendly, helpful, and accessible tone, I’ll share practical advice, tips, and solutions to help you restore your carpet to its former fresh-smelling glory.

Identify the Source of the Wet Smell

The first step in tackling the wet smell in your carpet is to identify the source. Is it a result of a recent spill or leak, or is it due to the high humidity in the room? Identifying the cause will help you determine the best course of action to remove the smell and prevent it from returning.

Dry the Carpet Thoroughly

If your carpet is still wet, it’s essential to dry it as soon as possible. Mold and mildew can quickly develop, making the smell worse and even causing health problems. To dry your carpet, try the following methods:

• Use a wet-dry vacuum: A wet-dry vacuum, like a Bissell or a Shop-Vac, can help remove excess water from your carpet. Make sure to vacuum the area thoroughly to ensure you’ve removed as much moisture as possible.
• Place fans around the room: Position fans around the affected area to increase airflow and speed up the drying process. Open windows and doors to encourage ventilation, if weather permits.
• Use a dehumidifier: A dehumidifier can help reduce the humidity in the room, making it easier for your carpet to dry. Place the dehumidifier near the wet carpet and let it run for at least 24 hours.

Clean the Carpet

Once your carpet is dry, it’s time to clean it to remove any lingering smells. You can use either a store-bought best carpet cleaner or a homemade solution. Here’s a simple DIY carpet cleaner recipe:

• Mix one cup of white vinegar, two cups of warm water, and a tablespoon of dish soap in a spray bottle.
• Lightly spray the affected area with the cleaning solution, making sure not to oversaturate the carpet.
• Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the carpet, working the solution into the fibers.
• Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture.

Deodorize the Carpet

After cleaning, it’s time to deodorize the carpet to neutralize any lingering odors. Baking soda is an effective and affordable option for this task. Here’s how to use it:

• Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the affected area, making sure to cover the entire spot.
• Allow the baking soda to sit for at least 30 minutes or, ideally, overnight. The baking soda will absorb the smell, leaving your carpet smelling fresh.
• Vacuum up the baking soda on the carpet, making sure to go over the area several times to remove all traces of the powder.

Prevent Future Wet Smells

Now that your carpet is clean and odor-free, it’s essential to take steps to prevent future wet smells. Consider implementing the following tips:

• Address any moisture issues in your home, such as leaks or high humidity.
• Place doormats at entryways to minimize the amount of water tracked into your home.
• Clean up spills immediately to prevent them from soaking into your carpet.

Regular Maintenance

To keep your carpet in the best condition possible and minimize the chances of the wet smell returning, it’s essential to establish a regular maintenance routine. Here are some tips for maintaining a fresh-smelling carpet:

• Vacuum regularly: Vacuum at least once a week to remove dirt, dust, and allergens that can contribute to odors. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas and spots where your family or pets spend the most time.
• Schedule professional cleanings: Aim to have your carpets professionally cleaned at least once a year, or more often if you have allergies or pets. Professional carpet cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques to remove deeply embedded dirt and odors.
• Spot clean as needed: Address stains and spills as soon as they happen to minimize the chance of odors becoming trapped in the carpet fibers.

When to Call in the Pros

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the wet smell may persist or even worsen. In such cases, it’s time to call in professional help. A professional carpet cleaning company can assess the situation, identify the root cause of the odor, and provide targeted solutions to eliminate the smell. They may use specialized equipment, such as hot water extraction or steam cleaning machines, to address the problem effectively.

Wind up

Dealing with a wet smell on your carpet can be frustrating, but with the right approach and a bit of persistence, you can successfully eliminate the odor and enjoy a fresh, clean living space.

Getting the wet smell out of your carpet doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these simple steps, you can restore your carpet to its fresh-smelling glory and create a more inviting atmosphere in your home.

Remember to identify the source of the smell, dry the carpet thoroughly, clean it using a suitable cleaner, deodorize it with baking soda, and take preventative measures to avoid future issues. With a little patience and effort, you can say goodbye to that stubborn wet smell and enjoy a fresh, clean carpet once again.