5 Steps To Clean Your Personal Items After Water Damage

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Mold on a furniture of a Jamestown. NY home.

5 Steps To Clean Your Personal Items After Water Damage

Few things cause more destruction than water in a home, and your entire structure, along with many of your personal belongings, can be affected. The good news is that emergency restoration services are available to help you with the cleaning and drying process. If your home in Jamestown,NY , has suffered water damage, there are steps that can help you save furniture, clothing and other valuables while you wait for the professionals.

1. Safety First

Whether you are experiencing damage from a broken pipe or a natural disaster, standing water in the home can be contaminated and dangerous. Wear protective clothing and footwear to avoid exposure. Disconnect power if water is present near any electrical appliances.

2. Lower the Humidity

Mold and mildew thrive in damp conditions, and you can combat their growth by reducing humidity. Open all the doors and windows, and utilize fans and dehumidifiers to circulate air.

3. Move Items to Higher Ground

Relocate any movable objects, such as furniture, clothing, carpets and rugs, to a dry area. Rinse any items that are still wet with clean water, and gently wipe them free of dirt and debris. Dry cleaning for upholstery and fabrics may be necessary.

4. Care for Fragile Belongings

Pictures, books and documents should be handled with care. Try to avoid touching wet surfaces as much as you can, and allow items to air-dry if possible. You can place books and photographs in a freezer to avoid further deterioration until they can be professionally treated.

5. Preserving Antiques

When it comes to expensive antiques or other collectibles, consider the worth of each piece before deciding whether to care for it yourself or to take it to a professional. Items made of wood or leather will likely need to air dry naturally, as heat can cause further damage.

When you are dealing with water in the home, time is of the essence, so act quickly to clean and salvage your items while you wait for professional assistance.