How to Care for Wet Items After a Flood

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Cleanup in Bixby, OK

The effects of a flood can be catastrophic. It doesn't take much water to damage materials and items in your Bixby, OK, home. The most severe flooding can destroy these belongings. Fortunately, if you have water at home, you can still salvage some possessions. With the help of professionals and quick response on your part, you can dry out and restore many materials.

Clean Them First

Water at home can soak precious items and valuable possessions. Before you can worry about drying them, you need to make sure they're free of dirt and other debris. Carefully handle wet items and follow these steps:

• Rinse them off with clear water.
  
• Use a low-pressure valve or fine spray.
  
• Gently dab the items with a cloth.
  
• Be careful to not embed anything in the objects. 
  
  

Make Sure They Are Dry
A broken pipe, ruptured appliances, or sewer backup can bring excessive amounts of water into your home. To save your belongings and materials, you need to thoroughly dry them. Do not use heat to dry them, as this can crack or split some items. Instead, air dry wet possessions; however, be cautious to not leave them out in the sun. 

Reduce the Risk of Mold
You may take care of dry cleaning, but this alone may not be enough to stave off mold growth. Fungi thrive in damp, humid conditions. After cleaning the affected area in your house, you'll need to increase the airflow in the area. Open windows, turn on fans and air conditioners, and use a dehumidifier. You should next disinfect the area where there was water. This will kill mold and prevent future growth from occurring. 

Call the Pros
For your most delicate items, you should call a certified flood cleanup company. Technicians have the skills and tools to clean and dry documents, electronics, and valuables. 
If you discover water at home, don't panic. Following these tips can help you spare most materials in your house.