Fire departments around the United States will respond to over 300,000 house fires this year alone. While the structures of many of these homes are saved, smoke damage can still cause complications.
Putting out a fire is only half of the battle. Smoke can easily build up causing further damage, and repairing it can be a timely and involved process. Fortunately, there are ways to combat this.
Looking to pick the pieces up after a fire? Don’t give up just because an item is damaged by smoke. Keep reading for guidance on going about smoke damage cleanup the easy and affordable way.
Gather Supplies
The good news is many of the supplies needed for cleaning smoke damage are common household items you may already have or can easily access. For starters, gather all necessary safety equipment such as gloves and goggles to protect yourself.
You will need a vacuum, clean rags, and a dry cleaning sponge. This is a special type of sponge that cleans items without getting them wet. Additionally, you should have regular sponges as well.
Other smoke damage cleaning products include rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and hot water. Use a bucket to mix these solutions as needed. Rubbing alcohol will help reduce soot build-up and vinegar fights against any lingering smells a fire may have left behind. As an alternative, baking soda also helps fight smoke smell.
Use sponges and rags for cleaning hard surface areas. For fabric items such as carpet or upholstery, use a vacuum to remove any particles or soot rather than scrubbing as this can make the damage much worse.
Air It Out
Time is of the essence when it comes to cleaning smoke damage. Ventilation is crucial for properly airing out your house and to avoid inhaling hazardous fumes.
Circulate air all throughout your home by turning on any working fans and adding portable ones in isolated areas. Keep doors and windows open when possible to keep fresh air constantly flowing.
Unfortunately, as you assess how to clean smoke damage from your walls, floor, and furniture there are certain areas you can’t see with the naked eye. Specifically, your house’s HVAC system.
It’s difficult to gauge how much smoke damage may be present inside your air ducts and ventilation system. As you clean the outside areas, it may be best to consult with a professional home inspector who can examine this further.
Safely Handling Smoke Damage Cleanup
Salvaging areas and furniture items impacted by smoke damage can be stressful. Nevertheless, safety still comes first. You can always replace inanimate objects, but not your health or wellbeing.
Always be cautious when working around the scene of where a fire took place, especially if going up multiple stories in a house or building.
Sometimes, elbow grease and every cleaning supply off the shelf may still leave you with lingering smoke damage. Fortunately, you don’t have to deal with this alone. Contact Embassy Cleaners to learn more about how we can help with your smoke damage cleanup.
