Start by identifying the water source
If the rug is wet from a clean, small spill, remove nearby items and blot the area with absorbent towels without rubbing. If water came from a leak, flood, drain or an unknown source, keep people and pets away and address the source.
Do not handle potentially contaminated water or wet electrical equipment; get appropriate help.
Blot and dry according to the rug's care guidance
Use dry towels to absorb as much surface moisture as possible, pressing rather than scrubbing. Check the rug maker's label before using a fan, heat, cleaning solution or moving the rug. Some dyes, backings and fibres can be damaged by moisture, friction or heat.
Do not use a household appliance where electrical parts could contact water.
Why baking soda is not a drying solution
Baking soda does not remove moisture from deep within the rug, padding or floor. On wet fibres it may form residue or paste and leave powder trapped in the pile. It also cannot prevent mould or repair water damage.
Do not add more products to mask an odour before the material is dry and the cause is understood.
When to seek professional assessment
A large area, soaked underlay, persistent damp smell, sewage or floodwater, or a delicate/valuable rug may need prompt specialist assessment. Cleaning is not a substitute for water-damage restoration or moisture investigation. For routine carpet cleaning once the source and material are suitable, describe the fibre, spill, area and prior treatment when requesting advice.
