How to Clean Damaged Items After a Fire

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

With a fire restoration team's knowledge and equipment, they can have your items cleaned thoroughly.

Along with the fire damage that can occur in your Alexandria, MN building, a fire often brings smoke and soot that can affect your belongings. Even if they were not near the flames, some items may still need cleaning. The following techniques, from soap to dry-cleaning, may be used to restore your belongings after a fire.

1. Soap or Chemical Cleaners

Some of your belongings may only need superficial content cleaning and can be wiped down to remove smoke and soot residue from the surface. For these items, a simple mixture of soap or cleaner with water might do the trick. Be sure to scrub the area thoroughly and work in small areas to reduce potential discoloration.

2. Washing Machines

For smaller items that can be safely cleaned in a washing machine, this might be an easy option. This will likely include things like clothing, curtains and small cushions. You should be careful, however, because putting an item through this cycle can sometimes cause the opposite result and can lock in odors. Only use this method for objects that have light damage or have already been deodorized.

3. Dry-Cleaning

For clothing and fabrics that have been more heavily affected or cannot be cleaned in a washing machine, you may be able to restore them by having them dry-cleaned. Because this method focuses on the surface of the object, however, it is possible that it might not be enough to remove tough lingering odors.

4. Ultrasonic Cleaning

If dry-cleaning does not work, another option is ultrasonic cleaning. With this method, you can sometimes restore items that would otherwise be unsalvageable. It is highly effective at removing both odors and contaminants.

When you need to have your belongings cleaned after a fire, contact a fire restoration company. They will often provide secure content storage for items that need to be worked on, so you can confidently leave your important belongings in their hands.