How to Clear a Moldy Wet Basement

A basement becomes wet and moldy in two ways. Flood waters can infiltrate the basement and leave behind moisture and the perfect conditions for mold to thrive. In this case, you must first take a photograph of the damage for your insurance company. The second way is for leaks or foundation damage to allow water to come in. In this case, you must repair the damage before you clean up. Otherwise the damage will recur.

Dust mask or N95 respirator
Mop
Bucket
Wet/dry shop vacuum
Gloves
Trisodium phosphate (TSP)
Dehumidifier

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all the standing flood water with a pump or buckets and a wet/dry shop vacuum.
- 2
  Remove any drywall, insulation, ceiling tiles, wood paneling, particle board and other porous material that are warped and soaked with water to 20 inches beyond the water line.
- 3
  Evaluate the carpet. If the carpet has been wet with sewage water or has been wet for more than 48 hours, it and the padding beneath it must be stripped and thrown away. If the carpet has been wet for less than 48 hours and is less than 10 years old (likely made out of synthetic material that is mold resistant), it may be salvageable. Have the carpet deep cleaned by professionals with experience in dealing with flood or general water damage.
- 4
  Hose away any flood-deposited surface debris from the wall, floor, remaining furnishings and appliances. Rinse them again. Then remove the rinse water with your wet/dry shop vacuum. Towel dry your furnishing and appliances. Dry the other surfaces with the wet/dry shop vacuum.
- 5
  Scrub all surfaces with trisodium phosphate (TSP) powder diluted with warm water. Mix 1/2 cup TSP per gallon of water. Wear rubber gloves and goggles as you clean. Towel dry. Do not leave them to air dry, which will encourage more mold growth.
- 6
  Close the windows and place a dehumidifier in the room for 48 hours to further dry the basement.

Damage From a Water Leak Under a House

How to Clear My Basement of Water

Flood Damage