It is likely that carpet and some rugs will have to be cleaned by a professional cleaner. If you chose to clean them yourself, keep in mind that prevention of mildew and odor is very difficult. Here are some suggestions and methods for cleaning:

• Dry the carpet or rug as soon as possible. Once the carpet starts to dry, you have 24-48 hours before mold starts to form.
• Pull up waterlogged carpets immediately to prevent further damage to the floor underneath. If possible, take carpets and rugs outdoors to a driveway or patio. Dry blankets or towels can be used to blot up excess moisture. If the carpet is too heavy to move, lift it off of the floor and prop it with sawhorses. If possible, take it outside when it is light enough to move. Carpet not dried on a flat surface will be stretched out of shape.
• To get air and heat to carpets, open windows if weather permits or use household electric fans, crop drying fans, or dehumidifiers. Securely fasten them.
• Use wet-dry vacuums and water extractors to help remove water absorbed into the carpet. After the carpet is dry, thoroughly vacuum or sweep to get rid of any dirt or debris. Clean off as much crusted dirt or sediment as possible before shampooing. Hire a cleaning specialist or shampoo the carpet with a steam cleaning machine. Follow the directions on the machine. After shampooing, dry the carpet quickly using an electric fan or dehumidifier.
• If you suspect mildew in the carpet, use a disinfecting shampoo or rinse with a disinfectant such as a bleach solution of 1/2 cup chlorine bleach to one gallon of water. Use a pine oil product for wool fibers.
• Even though the surface seems dry, any moisture remaining at the base of the fiber tufts will cause mildew or rot. Be sure the carpet is dry before bringing it back into the house. If you must walk on the carpet before it is dry, put down brown paper (shopping bags torn apart work well). Vacuum again when it is completely dry.
• Clean and dry floors thoroughly before putting carpet back into place.
• PADDING . . .Most often your carpet pads will need to be discarded. They will be heavy and will probably disintegrate when you remove them.