How to Repair Water-Damaged Carpet

Act quickly. You must begin repairing water-damaged carpets within 1 to 2 days of the damage occurring, or you will need to discard the carpet due to the proliferation of bacteria and mold growth. Remove all furniture from the surface of the carpet. Restrict traffic on the carpet to a minimum to reduce the chance of ongoing damage to the carpet and its backing.

Dehumidify the room to keep the air dry and inhibit the growth of bacteria. If the weather is sunny, open all doors and windows to increase air circulation. Use a large dehumidifier as well as fans to accelerate drying the air, floor and carpet.

Remove the tack strip to access the underlying layers of the carpet. Most restorers recommend discarding the water-damaged carpet backing, padding or cushion and installing a new one to ensure sanitary conditions.

Wash the carpet using a hose if you are treating the carpet outside. If weather conditions are sunny and not too humid, dry the carpet outside. If you are treating the carpet inside, use a water extraction vacuum to thoroughly absorb the water the carpet holds. Depending upon the level of absorption and damage, as well as the thickness of the carpet and its underlying layers, this segment of the restoration process can take up to 12 hours. Elevate the carpet to expedite the process of drying it.

Thoroughly vacuum or sweep the carpet, but only once it is completely dry. Apply a disinfectant to both sides of the carpet to reduce the chance of bacterial growth and fungi. Note that application of disinfectant can inhibit the effects of stain-resisting and water-resisting treatments.

Shampoo the carpet with a commercial grade shampoo. Apply the shampoo in circular motions, using a sponge, and treat only a small square area at a time, working from top to bottom. Thoroughly dry the carpet in the sun or elevated in a dehumidified room.