How Long Does It Take Carpet to Dry After Cleaning?

Before you start the carpet cleaning process, it is important to consider how much time it will take to dry. HVAC systems and stand fans are two ways to speed up drying time. A dehumidifier is another option that can significantly reduce the drying time.

If none of these options works for you, use a fan on your desk or stand to help dry wet carpet. And if you really can’t stand the heat and humidity, use a fan.

Stand Fans or Desk Fans Dry Carpet Faster than An Overhead Ceiling Fan

Overhead ceiling fans do a great job drying a carpet faster than a stand fan or desk fan. They create a full-funnel of air, which helps remove moisture and prevents musty odors. A desk or stand fan will not be as effective, however. A couple of smaller fans on either side of the carpet should be enough to provide adequate air circulation. In a pinch, a desk fan will also do an excellent job of drying carpet, though it won’t be as quick as an overhead fan.

While stand fans and ceiling fans have their pros and cons, ceiling fans offer a more permanent look. They are easier to move from room to room and are less susceptible to damage. But if you don’t want to worry about removing the fan, you should consider ceiling fans. They also are more expensive than a desk and stand fans. They are also much more versatile than a desk and stand fans, which is why many people use both types.

HVAC Systems Reduce Drying Time

HVAC systems reduce drying time after carpet cleaning by lowering indoor temperature. To promote faster drying, heating or air conditioning systems should be set at 75 degrees or lower—alternate heat and air modes for six to eight hours.

If possible, open windows to allow the air to circulate. Open the windows while still cool outside to reduce air conditioning costs and speed up drying. Once the carpet is dry, it is safe to move furniture.

When you’re finished cleaning your carpet, you can turn on fans or place standing fans in rooms that still need to be dried. If the weather is nice, you can also open the windows. If you don’t have access to a heating or air conditioning system, you can use an air mover to speed up the drying process. But if these options are not available, you can always turn on your HVAC system to “Heat” and leave it on for at least a couple of hours.

Using a Towel to Dry Wet Carpet

Wet carpet is difficult to dry, and leaving it alone can cause damage to your flooring and furniture. Even if the water source did not make the carpet wet, it could still cause it to buckle. Leaving a wet carpet to dry on its own can allow mold and mildew to grow. Especially when the carpet is wall-to-wall, drying it yourself can be a major task.

To dry a wet carpet after cleaning, you will need to figure out the source of the water. A broken pipe or leaking roof will make your carpet wet. If this happens, turning on a fan or dehumidifier is a good idea to help draw the moisture out of the air. You can also lay down a rag on the carpet and weigh it down with objects. Be sure to wrap it in waterproof material.

Using a Dehumidifier

While a fan can help cut drying times, a dehumidifier will suck up the moisture. It will take a couple of hours to dry a carpet after it’s been cleaned, so it’s a good idea to set it on high while drying it. Alternatively, a shop vac can suck up any excess water. Whether you use a shop vac or a dehumidifier is a matter of personal preference, but always be sure to empty the fluid canister every hour.

A dehumidifier collects moisture from the air around the carpet and converts it to water. You can place it near the area you want to dry the carpet. If you’re worried about mold or musty smells in your new carpet, you can also use a dehumidifier to dry the damp air. You can set the dehumidifier to run continuously for up to two hours and check it every hour.

Using an Air Conditioner

If you’ve just had your carpet professionally cleaned, you might be wondering how to dry it properly. There are several ways to do this, but heat and air conditioning play a big part. Winter is the best time for drying carpets due to the low RH and constant temperature inside the house. In summer, A/C can slow down the drying process, and a higher SEER rating means it will be less efficient at removing moisture.

If the temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the inside of most AC units becomes ice. This ice is so solid that it will not flow into the drain pan. Once melted, this ice will leak into the room and can damage the carpet. If you’re using an AC to dry your carpet, set the thermostat to the highest setting and empty it every few hours. If you want to speed up the process, use a dehumidifier or a window-mounted fan.