How Humidity Affects Your Carpets

Let's face it—Florida can get pretty humid, especially in those scorching summer months. In warmer climates, such as in Central Florida, humidity can have an impact on your carpets. Let's take a look at exactly how humid air temperatures can affect your carpets:

Carpet Mold

Humidity brings moisture to the air, which can contribute to the cause of mold in your carpets—and nobody likes mold. It can even be a health risk, depending on the severity. Moisture combined with dirty carpets can lead to mold build-up and also damage your carpet fibers over time. On the plus side, it's fairly easy to prevent mold from building up in your carpet:

• Maintain air humidity in your home. Humidity levels should be no more than 65%, but preferably even a little lower than that—ideally around 40-50%.
• Open your windows to improve air flow. This will help bring in dry air from outside to allow your carpets to dry faster.
• Stick to a carpet cleaning schedule. Vacuum your carpets at least once a week and schedule a professional carpet cleaning once a year. Having your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned will also help to improve the air quality in your home!

Rug Damage

Wool rugs especially can be damaged from the build-up of mold and mildew caused by humidity. Wool is a naturally absorbent material, so water can easily sink in to the fibers of area rugs. In places such as Orlando, where temperatures tend to be humid almost year-round, it is even recommended to use a portable dehumidifier to maintain humidity levels in your home.