7 Best Carpet Cleaners for Mold (2025 Guide)

This heavy-duty deep cleaner brings serious muscle to the fight against mold-laden carpets, combining five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes and HeatForce drying technology to not only extract grime but also reduce moisture—the key to preventing mold regrowth. Unlike basic extractors that merely wet and suck, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe actively agitates deep into carpet fibers, breaking apart mold colonies and lifting them into the dual-tank system, where clean and dirty water stay separated for maximum hygiene. For homeowners battling recurring musty odors or visible mildew, this machine delivers a pro-level clean without requiring professional service.

In real-world testing, the 8-foot hose and included upholstery and crevice tools made it easy to tackle baseboards, stairs, and under furniture—common mold hideouts. The Auto Mix feature ensures the right concentration of cleaning solution every time, which is crucial when using antimicrobial formulas to kill mold spores. While it handles low-pile and medium carpets with authority, it struggles slightly on thick, shaggy rugs where water extraction isn’t quite as complete. Still, the HeatForce drying cuts drying time by up to 30%, a major win in mold prevention.

Compared to simpler spot cleaners or sprays, the PowerScrub Deluxe is a whole-room solution—ideal for those with widespread mold concerns, pet accidents, or high-humidity environments. It’s bulkier than handheld units like the Resolve or Carbona options, but that trade-off delivers far deeper sanitation. When stacked against the Zep concentrate system, it offers better built-in cleaning intelligence (Auto Mix, HeatForce) but at a higher upfront investment. For serious carpet restoration with mold control at its core, this Hoover stands as the most complete all-in-one deep cleaning system in its class.

When black mold stains refuse to budge, RMR-86 enters like a biochemical commando—fast-acting, relentless, and scrub-free. This isn’t just a surface whitener; it’s a penetrating oxidizer that attacks mold at the root, dissolving stains embedded deep in grout, drywall, and even porous wood. For homeowners facing mold in bathrooms, basements, or HVAC areas, this spray delivers instant visible results, often lifting stains within minutes without elbow grease. Its no-scrub formula is a game-changer, especially in hard-to-reach corners where mold thrives and scrubbing is impractical.

Testing across multiple surfaces—vinyl siding, concrete floors, shower caulk, and ceiling tiles—revealed consistent performance, even on years-old mold patches. The 30 fl oz ready-to-use bottle sprays evenly and clings vertically, allowing dwell time without runoff. While it doesn’t replace physical cleaning for loose debris, it chemically neutralizes both stains and odors caused by microbial growth. One caveat: it requires proper ventilation and gloves, as the fumes are potent—a small price for its efficacy.

Against competitors like ZORBX or Resolve, RMR-86 holds a clear edge in industrial-grade performance, often favored by restoration pros. While ZORBX markets extra strength, RMR-86 has third-party lab validation and broader EPA recognition for mold remediation. It doesn’t clean carpets directly like the Hoover machine, but for targeted, high-impact stain destruction, it’s unmatched. If you need a nuclear option for mold stains on non-porous surfaces, RMR-86 is the gold standard—fast, fearless, and freakishly effective.

ZORBX doesn’t whisper about mold removal—it roars with a bleach-free, muscle-powered formula that dismantles mold and mildew from the inside out. Engineered for stubborn, deep-seated spores, this 24 fl oz spray goes where brushes can’t, soaking into carpet padding, car interiors, and bathroom grout to lift and dissolve stains without scrubbing. Its extra strength oxidizing agents work overnight, making it ideal for pre-treatment before deep cleaning with a machine like the Hoover PowerScrub. For homes in humid climates or with past water damage, ZORBX acts as both cleaner and preventive, breaking the mold lifecycle.

In real use, it excelled on carpet edges, shower ceilings, and basement walls—areas prone to recurring mold. The formula clings well and doesn’t evaporate quickly, allowing extended dwell time for deep penetration. Unlike some sprays that just mask odors, ZORBX eradicates musty smells at the source, thanks to its dual-action stain and odor destruction. However, on thick carpet piles, it may require extraction afterward to avoid residue, meaning it’s best paired with a carpet cleaner for full remediation.

Compared to RMR-86, ZORBX is slightly milder but safer for more surfaces, including automotive interiors and colored fabrics. It lacks RMR-86’s institutional credibility but wins on user-friendliness and versatility. While Resolve targets only surface stains, ZORBX dives deeper with zero bleach—a win for families and eco-conscious users. If you want maximum penetration without chlorine damage, ZORBX is the smart, scrub-free warrior against persistent mold and mildew.

Zep’s professional-grade concentrate is a budget-savvy powerhouse, turning one gallon into a full 25 gallons of cleaning solution—perfect for large homes or frequent mold-prone environments. Designed for use with extractors like Bissell or Rug Doctor machines, this formula penetrates deep into carpet backing, where mold spores often take hold after moisture exposure. While it doesn’t kill mold on its own, when paired with a pre-spray like RMR-86, it flushes out contaminants and lifts organic debris that feed microbial growth. For landlords, renters, or anyone using rental carpet cleaners, Zep delivers commercial cleaning strength at a fraction of the cost.

In performance tests, it produced rich, consistent foam across multiple machines, aiding in soil suspension and extraction. It worked exceptionally well on high-traffic areas and pet zones, lifting ground-in dirt that traps moisture and promotes mold. However, it lacks built-in antimicrobial agents, so it’s not a standalone mold killer—think of it as the heavy-lift partner in a two-step mold cleanup. It also leaves no sticky residue, which helps prevent re-soiling and future microbial attachment.

Compared to Sunny & Honey or Resolve, Zep offers far greater value per ounce and is trusted by professionals for a reason. It doesn’t smell as pleasant as scented alternatives, but that’s a small trade for its raw cleaning power and economy. When pitted against the Hoover’s included solution, Zep cleans deeper but requires more user input. For those who clean often and want pro results, Zep is the unbeatable workhorse—especially when battling mold’s favorite breeding grounds: dirty, damp carpet fibers.

Carbona’s 2-in-1 Oxy-Powered Foam is a precision strike weapon against mold-related spots, combining active oxygen bubbles with a dual-action applicator to surgically remove stains before they become infestations. The foam clings to vertical and angled surfaces, making it ideal for baseboards, stairs, and under furniture—common mold hotspots. Its oxy-powered lift breaks down organic residues that feed mold, while the bristle-and-sponge head ensures both surface and sub-surface cleaning. For early-stage mold discoloration or spill-related moisture zones, this 13.5 fl oz wonder stops problems before they spread.

Real-world use showed impressive results on coffee spills, pet accidents, and damp carpet edges—situations that often lead to mold if left untreated. The foam expands into the fibers, then lifts debris as it breaks down, making blotting easier. It’s not a full-carpet solution like the Hoover, but for targeted intervention, it’s faster and more effective than sprays that just sit on top. One limitation: it’s not for deep mold remediation—think of it as preventive maintenance, not emergency surgery.

Against Resolve, Carbona offers better mechanical cleaning thanks to its brush head, while Resolve relies solely on chemical lift. It’s less potent than RMR-86 for pure mold stains but far safer for daily use around kids and pets. When compared to ZORBX, it’s less aggressive but more user-friendly for spot care. If you want a fast, no-mess way to tackle mold-prone stains early, Carbona is the smart first responder—compact, effective, and engineered for real home hazards.

Sunny & Honey’s spring mint-scented formula transforms carpet cleaning from a chore into a sensory upgrade, but don’t let the pleasant aroma fool you—this 32 fl oz solution packs heavy-duty cleaning power with a focus on odor destruction and freshness. Infused with essential oils and biodegradable surfactants, it’s designed for homes with pets and kids, where mold-related smells often linger after spills. The formula cuts through organic residues that feed mold, while leaving zero sticky buildup—a critical factor in preventing future microbial growth.

In testing, it performed exceptionally well in odor neutralization, outperforming Zep and Resolve in post-clean freshness. It worked smoothly in both home and rental machines, producing stable foam and extracting cleanly. While it doesn’t kill mold directly, its deep-cleaning action removes the food sources mold needs, making it a strong preventive partner when paired with a mold-specific pre-treatment. The light, natural scent lingers without overwhelming—ideal for those sensitive to chemical odors.

Compared to Resolve, it’s more effective on persistent smells and safer for frequent use. Against Zep, it lacks the industrial punch but wins on eco-friendliness and scent profile. While not the strongest mold killer, it’s the best choice for maintaining clean, fresh, mold-resistant carpets after deep treatment. For pet owners or families in humid climates, Sunny & Honey offers the perfect balance of power, safety, and sensory appeal—turning every clean into a breath of fresh air.

Resolve goes straight for the set-in stain jugular with a penetrating formula that redefines spot cleaning for mold-prone households. When spills, pet accidents, or damp patches sit too long, they create the perfect breeding ground for mold, but Resolve’s professional strength lift breaks down those deep-seated residues before spores take hold. The 32 fl oz ready-to-use spray delivers targeted power on wool, nylon, and synthetic fibers, making it ideal for quick interventions on expensive rugs or high-traffic zones.

In practice, it excelled at lifting old coffee, mud, and urine stains—common moisture traps—without fading carpet color. The formula works fast, often showing results in under 10 minutes with minimal blotting. However, it lacks antimicrobial properties, so while it removes the stain, it doesn’t kill existing mold. It’s also less effective on large areas, requiring multiple applications. Still, as a first-line defense, it stops minor issues from becoming major mold problems.

Against Carbona, Resolve relies more on chemical lift than mechanical action, making it easier to use but less thorough on textured surfaces. Compared to ZORBX, it’s weaker on odor but safer for everyday use. While it doesn’t match RMR-86’s mold-killing power, it’s the best immediate response for old, stubborn stains that could lead to mold. For fast, reliable stain penetration without scrubbing, Resolve remains a trusted household essential—especially when time is short and mold risk is high.