5 Steps for Cleaning Your Belongings After a Flood

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Water extraction in Belleair, FL.

Cleaning Your Belongings After a Flood

Many people lose residential and commercial property to floods every year. Structures and their contents are susceptible to water damage and other types of damage. You must take action immediately to begin structure and content cleaning. The longer it's left to linger, the more damage will occur.

1. Extract Standing Water

The first job that you must do following a flood is extracting the standing water. You can do this with a mop or towels. However, the quickest and most efficient method is utilizing a wet/dry vacuum.

2. Remove Mud and Debris

There will probably be dirt, mud and debris that came in with the floodwaters. Now it's time to remove it. Get a shovel and trash can and begin shoveling it into the trash can. Only fill it about halfway, however, as mud is very heavy.

3. Dispose of the Unsalvageable

Next, you'll need to determine what's salvageable and what isn't. There will probably be a lot that cannot be saved, especially porous items, due to the extreme toxicity of black water and being too soaked to dry. There are some items that the content cleaning process won't be good enough. These items could include carpeting, upholstered furniture, mattresses, wooden furniture and even some drywall.

4. Clean and Disinfect Remains

Everything remaining must be cleaned and disinfected, including the affected area and contents. This cleaning includes washing down walls.

5. Dry Everything

Finally, it's essential to dry the entire area and all contents thoroughly. It may be necessary to hire Belleair, FL, flood damage restoration professionals to make sure it's completely dry. There are several ways to do it on your own, if you choose, including opening windows and doors and running fans, heaters and dehumidifiers.
After a flood, content cleaning must begin immediately to save as much as possible. When it's complete, have a professional inspection done to ensure there's no mold.