Have you ever walked into a room and had a bad smell? You’re not sure what it is, but it seems to be lurking in your carpet. It may even get a little worse on hot summer days.

It might be your carpet.

Just like stains, your carpet fibers can trap odors, making the scent linger in your home indefinitely. Consider these possibilities.

Moisture or Dampness
Sometimes moisture can get underneath the carpet and the carpet padding, which leads to musty smells. This moisture can be from humidity, spills, a Christmas tree that drips into the carpeting, or small leaks from your plumbing. In the basement, it can seep in after a flood or a rainstorm. If not addressed properly, it can lead to mildew and mold. Not only does that increase the smell, but it will also increase the risk of health problems in the future.

Pet Odor
Even small accidents can add up over time. This is due to the gases that are released by the bacteria in urine. If any trace of urine remains after cleaning, it will get into the fibers and continue to smell. The same is true for other common pet problems, including vomit. If you have pets, clean all problems immediately, and follow manufacturer’s suggestions to clean your carpeting on a regular basis.

Cigarette smoke
Carpet fiber picks up and collects cigarette smoke odor. While homeowners may not notice the stench because they live with it, visitors will be able to pick it up immediately. A professional carpet cleaner may be able to remove the smell and deodorize it, but it may need to be replaced if the smoking was excessive.

Spills
Everyday living leads to spills. Food and drinks can lead to odor. Like pet smells, these organic items can attract bacteria and smell over time. While all spills should be wiped up and removed as fast as possible, also have a professional clean your carpets periodically to remove messes.

Old age
Carpeting is made from fibers. As these fibers are used, they break down and become weaker, attracting more dirt and bacteria. Eventually, there is little you can do to remove odors and stains. Replacement is the only option.

What shape if your carpeting in? If you’ve noticed an odd smell, and you can’t make it go away, it may be time to replace your carpet with something new.