How do you clean up after a fire? The answer may be more intensive than you think – so here’s what you need to know.
How Do You Clean Up After a Fire?
In many cases, the best thing to do after a fire is get in touch with a fire damage restoration company to handle the entire cleanup process for you. Often, these types of services are covered by insurance. If you aren’t working with a fire damage restoration company, you can use this guide to helping clean up after a fire.
How Do You Remove Smoke Odor After a Fire?
Removing smoke odor can be challenging, even for professionals. Try to use products that contain trisodium phosphate, or TSP, which can reduce odors in fabrics. TSP is a dangerous chemical, so please be careful – and make sure you read the label before you use any smoke-removal cleaning product.
How Do You Remove Soot From Walls?
Soot is not only unsightly; it has a distinctive odor and can cause damage to your walls. You may be able to remove soot from your walls, furnishings and floors with mild soap or detergent, or a concoction containing:
- 4 to 6 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate
- 1 cup of household cleaner or chlorine bleach
- 1 gallon of water
If you’re mixing your own cleaner, wear rubber gloves and always rinse surfaces with clear, warm water. Work in small sections from the floor up to prevent streaking. Make sure each section dries thoroughly.
Additional Tips for How to Clean Up After a Fire
If you’re cleaning your own space after a fire, use these tips to preserve your belongings and keep yourself safe:
- Talk to a professional about replacing drywall and insulation.
- Wash metal objects with warm, soapy water; then rinse and polish.
- Fill shaped items, such as handbags and shoes, with newspaper so they retain their original shapes as they dry out.
- Wear protective clothing, and, if necessary, a mask while you work.
- Wet down debris to prevent additional dust particles from being stirred up as you move through your space.
Do You Need a Disaster Remediation Expert in Washtenaw County or Jackson County?
If your home has already been damaged, we can help. Check out our services and call 517-262-3770 for your free disaster remediation quote today. We offer: