Contact Expert Carpet Cleaning Today!
Expert Carpet Cleaning provides effective solutions for how to remove mildew smell in carpet, eliminating stubborn odours, mould, and trapped moisture. Restore your carpets with professional cleaning services that leave your home fresh, hygienic, and smelling clean.
📞 Phone: 0418 957 690
📧 Email: expert@expertcarpetcleaning.com.au
📍 Address: 77 Quarry St, Fremantle WA 6000, Australia
Carpet Cleaning Association of WA- Professionally Trained and Qualified. http://www.carpetcleaningassociationwa.com.au/ Green Stamp- Using best practice environmental initiatives.
Cert III | PRM #30604 | Police Cleared
Fully Insured | Reg # 94179
Top Ways to Stop Mould and Mildew in Carpets During Winter
How to Remove Mildew Smell in Carpet Before It Takes Over Your Home
Winter in Western Australia might look mild compared to the rest of the country, but Perth and surrounding areas still experience enough cold, wet weather between June and August to create the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew in carpets. Condensation builds up on windows and floors, homes are sealed tight to keep out the chill, and carpets — especially in poorly ventilated rooms — stay damp for longer than you’d think.
If you’ve noticed a musty odour creeping through your home, you’re probably already wondering how to remove mildew smell in carpet before it spreads. The good news is that prevention is straightforward once you understand what causes it.
Why Winter Is the Worst Season for Carpet Mould in WA
Mould and mildew thrive in moisture and warmth — and in winter, carpets often get the worst of both. Wet shoes track in rainwater, pets shake off after being outside, and everyday humidity levels rise inside sealed rooms. Without adequate airflow, that moisture sits in carpet fibres and padding, and within 24–48 hours, mould spores can start to grow.
Perth homes — particularly older ones in areas like Fremantle, Joondalup, and the Hills — often have limited insulation and poor ventilation, which makes carpets especially vulnerable to winter dampness. If you’ve experienced any carpet water damage, even from something as minor as a leaky window, mould can take hold quickly if not addressed.
1. Keep Humidity Levels Under Control
The single most effective thing you can do is manage air moisture. Aim to keep indoor humidity below 55%. A simple hygrometer (widely available at hardware stores) helps you monitor this. Open windows on dry winter days to air out rooms, and run a dehumidifier in areas where carpets are laid — particularly bedrooms and living rooms that don’t get much airflow.
2. Act Fast on Spills and Wet Carpet
Speed matters. If a carpet gets wet — from a spill, a leaking window, or condensation — you need to dry it within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould. Blot liquid immediately, apply dry towels with firm pressure, and use a fan or heater to accelerate drying. For larger wet areas, visit our guide on drying carpet after cleaning in winter for step-by-step advice suited to WA conditions.
3. Vacuum Regularly — More Often Than You Think
Vacuuming removes organic matter, such as skin cells, dust, and pet dander, which mould feeds on. During winter, aim to vacuum high-traffic areas at least twice a week. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to prevent spores from recirculating into the air. Don’t forget under furniture and along skirting boards, where dust and moisture accumulate unnoticed.
4. Use a Carpet Protector
Applying a professional-grade carpet protector creates a barrier that repels liquids before they soak into the fibres. This is one of the most underrated preventative measures homeowners can take. A good protector won’t make carpet waterproof, but it gives you extra time to clean up spills before they penetrate to the backing and padding below. Learn more about the right options for your home at our carpet protection page.
5. Address Odours as a Warning Sign
A musty smell is often the first sign mould is present — even before it’s visible. Knowing how to remove mildew smell in carpet early can save you from a larger remediation job later. Sprinkling bicarbonate of soda generously over the affected area and leaving it for several hours before vacuuming can help neutralise light odours. For persistent smells embedded in the backing or underlay, professional treatment is usually necessary. Our team handles this specifically through our carpet odour removal service.
6. Book a Professional Clean Before Winter Sets In
The best time to have your carpets professionally steam cleaned is just before the cold months hit — ideally in May. This removes built-up debris and allergens that mould feeds on, and ensures carpets enter winter in the best possible condition.
FAQs: Mould and Mildew in Carpets
Q: Can I remove mould from carpet myself? Light surface mould on short-pile carpet can sometimes be treated with a diluted white vinegar solution, followed by thorough drying. However, if mould has reached the backing or underlay, DIY methods rarely eliminate it fully. Professional extraction is recommended.
Q: How do I know if mould is under my carpet? Signs include a persistent musty smell even after cleaning, discolouration on the carpet surface, or visible dark spots along the edges near walls. Lifting a corner of the carpet can reveal mould on the underlay or subfloor.
Q: Is mouldy carpet a health risk? Yes. Mould releases spores that can trigger respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and worsen asthma — particularly in children and elderly residents. Don’t delay treatment.
Q: How long does it take for mildew to grow in wet carpet? Mildew can begin forming within 24 to 48 hours of a carpet remaining wet. This is why fast drying after any moisture event is critical.
Q: How often should carpets be professionally cleaned in winter? At minimum, once annually — ideally before winter. High-traffic homes with pets or young children may benefit from cleaning every six months.
Ready to protect your carpets this winter? Get in touch with our team for a free quote on cleaning, protection, and odour removal services across Perth and surrounds.
Also visit:
🐾 Leave your little friend with us when on holiday
🛠️ Job Opportunities Await in Western Australia
