How to Do Water Damage Clean-up in Your Home After a Flood

Get rid of standing water. Standing water provides the ideal conditions for germs and bacteria to grow and multiply. These microorganisms can breed in porous materials such as carpeting and then eventually get into the air and can be inhaled. This can trigger allergic reactions and make you sick.

Dry out your home and the air inside. Use your air conditioner or de-humidifier to reduce moisture. This is the only way to stop the allergy causing microorganisms from growing and spreading. It will also limit the spread of dust mites which are a leading cause of allergies and asthma. It can take several weeks for flood soaked items to dry. If you smell a musty odor, that means the microorganisms are still growing. They will always be present, but they need humid conditions in order to grow.

Throw away anything that came into contact with the flood water. This is an important part of water damage clean-up because items that were soaked by flood waters can pose a health hazard. Especially if they are made out of absorbent material. You may be able to save some items by cleaning them but it must be done within 24-48 hours of exposure. If not, then microorganisms may hide in them and affect the quality of air in your home.

Clean your home thoroughly. Wash and disinfect walls, floors, shelves and effected items. Heating and air conditioning ducts should be cleaned with a disinfectant and sanitizer if they were exposed to flood waters.