Carpet is a popular and enduring flooring choice that provides unparalleled comfort underfoot and a welcoming atmosphere for any room. However, if you overlook routine maintenance and professional carpet cleaning, you might notice an unpleasant scent coming from the fibers. Review this guide to learn about a few possible causes of these carpet odors.

Why Does Your Carpet Smell?

1. Bare Feet

It might feel luxurious to sink your bare feet into the cushy pile of your carpet, but it comes with the risk of odors getting into the fibers. Natural oils from your feet can easily be transferred to the carpet, as can bacteria, leading to a pronounced scent. You can minimize the chances of this happening by wearing socks or indoor slippers around the house. If you're in the mood to go barefoot, make sure to take a shower before hitting the carpet.

2. Pets

Roughly 85 million American families own pets. While companion animals bring joy and comfort, they're common causes of unpleasant carpet odors. 

Bathroom accidents, tracked-in dirt, and even just the natural oils in a pet's fur can become trapped in the fibers. If the interior of your home is humid, the smell will worsen over time. Clean up accidents immediately with a product designed for pet stains and schedule professional carpet cleaning as part of your care routine.

3. Moisture

Moisture can make its way into your carpet from many sources, including high humidity in the home, water damage from leaks, liquid spills, and dripping houseplants. As dampness sets in, it releases a musty scent that should be tended to by a professional carpet cleaner. The longer moisture sits in your carpet, the greater the risk of mold and mildew growth — and the more prominent the odor will become. Keep plants away from carpeted areas, and restrict food and drinks to the kitchen to avoid accidents.

If your carpet emits foul odors, contact Gray's Carpet Cleaning. These carpet cleaners have served Rochester, NY, for over 100 years. They provide residential carpet cleaning, stain protection, and spot removal to ensure your home smells fresh and stays comfortable. Call (585) 473-4947 or visit their website to request a quote or schedule an appointment.