Salt on carpet can be detrimental, especially if it's road salt. While small amounts of salt might not cause immediate harm, road salt can permanently damage carpet fibers by breaking them down. This damage is irreversible and can happen quickly if left untreated.
Salt can also attract moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth, which can further damage your carpet and pose health risks.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Salt stains: Salt can leave unsightly stains on your carpet, especially if it's not cleaned up promptly.
- Pet safety: While salt won't harm your cat if they lay on it, ingesting it can be dangerous.
- Fleas: Some sources suggest salt can kill flea eggs, but this is not a guaranteed solution.
To prevent salt damage:
- Clean up spills immediately: Use a damp cloth or sponge to absorb the salt and then blot the area dry.
- Vacuum regularly: This helps remove any loose salt and prevents it from embedding in the carpet fibers.
- Consider professional cleaning: If salt damage is severe, a professional carpet cleaner can help remove the salt and restore your carpet.