It’s never a good idea to let your carpet air dry and hope for the best.

Avoiding action can invite mold and mildew growth into your home.

Here’s our guide to how to remove water from carpet quickly and to prevent damage.

How to get water out of carpet

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Before entering a room with wet carpet, take note of the damp location in the room.

If you notice any water damage near an electrical source, shut off the electric supply to the room.

For example, shut off your home’s water supply if a broken pipe is the root cause.

Tools to get water out of carpet

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Or, attempt to divert rainwater away from your home using items like sandbags.

Once you cut off the water source, you could move on to the cleanup portion.

Prep the Room

Create as much airflow as it’s possible for you to.

Addressing the source of the water

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Open all the doors and windows and use fans to circulate the air.

Remove all the furniture from the wet portion of the carpet.

Before using the vacuum, ensure to empty the container and take out the collection bag and dry filter.

Preparing the room to get water out of the carpet

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Some models come with a special wet filter you’ve got the option to insert in its place.

Use a wide and flat nozzle and start vacuuming up the water.

Continue the process until you notice that there is no longer any water filling the shot vacuum’s container.

Removing water from carpet with a shop vac

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Do not leave any damp towels sitting on the carpet, as this can trap moisture.

Baking soda can also help deodorize any potential mildew smells.

In addition to opening the windows and doors, run air mover blower fans or box fans.

Soaking up the remaining water with towels

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Point them in various directions to create a cross breeze.

you’re able to do so using a carpet moisture reader.

If there is still moisture present, contact a professional water remediation company to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Applying a layer of baking soda to the carpet

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Tips for Keeping Carpets Mold and Mildew-Free

Airing out the room with a fan

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Checking for remaining moisture

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic