Dealing With Water Damage

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Greene County, TN home

Dealing With Water Damage

Living in Greene County, TN, one of the biggest problems when cleaning up water in your home or apartment is what to do with the soggy remnants of your possessions. Here are a few ways you can dry out and get your life back to normal.

1. Safety First

Before attempting any clean-up of the affected area, shut off the electricity from outlets, and unplug major appliances like the washer and dryer. This will make sure you don’t suffer any shocks since water is an excellent conductor and can even cause harm through damp clothing.

In addition, wear appropriate masks and gloves. It’s possible that mold and mildew have already begun to form. There is also a danger of bacterial growth when there is standing water in the residence, so adequate protection is essential.

2. Water to Wear

Standing water and dampness can lead to bacteria and mold growth. The last thing you want is to wear damaged or infected clothing, so first, separate out dry cleaning and regular-washed clothes.

Don’t leave fabrics in wet piles as this will encourage mold growth as well as letting colors bleed between items. When bringing your dry cleaning in, take some time to explain that these items have been exposed to damage related to water in your home so the cleaners are better prepared for the job.

3. Drenched Dryers

If you’ve been the victim of a broken pipe that has left your laundry room flooded, you’ll want to take special care to clean the washing machine and dryer. This will make sure laundry days in the future will clean your clothes instead of spreading hidden mold and infections.

Run your washing machine on the hottest setting while empty, adding in a cup of chlorine bleach to wipe out any bacteria and kill mold spores. If your dryer has been soaked, have it inspected by a professional to check the electronics and clean the interior drum with a bleach-laden cloth.

Even professional cleaners in Greene County, TN, suggest wiping everything down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any extra bleach residue as well. Remember, keeping yourself safe from infection and shock when there is water in the home remains more important than saving your favorite tee shirt!