Guide · Odour and damp problems ·
What Causes Carpet Smell?
A bad smell in a carpet usually comes from moisture left in its backing, liquids that have soaked in, or the carpet not drying fully after washing. New carpets may also carry a smell from manufacturing and packaging. This guide explains why carpets smell, what causes the smell in washed and new rugs, and what you can do to get rid of it.
Why does a carpet smell?
- Not drying fully: a rug whose backing stays damp after washing smells musty.
- Damp in the floor: a damp floor or moisture along the walls causes a smell from underneath the rug.
- Spilled liquids: milk, urine and vomit soak into the backing; the smell can remain even if the surface is cleaned.
- Pets: fur, saliva and urine residue cause odour in carpets.
- Shampoo residue: too much shampoo and poor rinsing leave residue that holds dirt and odour.
- Natural fibres: natural fibres such as wool and sisal hold moisture; their own smell becomes stronger when wet.
Why does a carpet smell after washing?
The most common reason a washed rug smells is slow, incomplete drying. Thick rugs, and rugs dried in an enclosed, damp place or in cold weather, hold moisture in their backing and develop a musty smell. Using too much shampoo and not rinsing well also cause odour. Dry the rug in a well-ventilated place, ideally with air reaching the backing too, and do not lay it down until it is completely dry. If a rug back from a cleaning service smells, it may not be fully dry; dry it in a ventilated place and tell the cleaning company if the smell continues. For washing a rug at home, see how to use carpet shampoo.
Why does a new rug smell?
New rugs may carry a smell from manufacturing and packaging. Take the rug out of its packaging, lay it in a well-ventilated room and air the room regularly; this smell usually fades over time. If it lasts a long time, contact the rug's seller or manufacturer.
Why do wool and sisal rugs smell?
Natural fibres such as wool and sisal hold more moisture than synthetic fibres; when wet, their own smell becomes stronger, and if they dry slowly a musty smell develops. Clean wool rugs without soaking them and dry them quickly. Sisal rugs are sensitive to water; follow the rug's label and the manufacturer's recommendation for cleaning.
How to get rid of carpet odour
- Blot spilled liquid straight away; press with a clean cloth to soak it up rather than rubbing.
- For urine and vomit stains, follow the steps in the guides: how to remove urine stains, how to remove vomit stains.
- Apply TETİK Binbir Stain Remover to any remaining mark as directed on the label; test it first on a hidden part of the rug.
- Do not soak the rug; dry it completely in a well-ventilated place.
- Lift the rug and check the floor underneath; if it is damp, do not lay the rug down until the floor dries.
- Air the room regularly; room fragrance masks a smell, it does not remove its source.
- On the sources of stale, damp and sewage smells at home: why does my house smell.
- On the causes of yellowing in washed, white and wool rugs: carpet turn yellow.
Choose the right products
Carpet shampoos are used for washing rugs and treating stains as directed on the label; using too much shampoo can leave residue and odour. For care by rug type, see how to clean a shaggy rug and how to wash a faux fur rug. Carpet cleaning companies and hotels can request a quote for bulk orders.
