Caring for Water-Damaged Possessions

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

We will take care of your items like they are our own.

How Do You Clean Items Damaged By Water?

Water leaks and flooding can quickly harm your home as well as some of your most prized possessions. It is imperative to act quickly as you remove your items from any excess water in a home and begin to dry them. If you live in Valley Glen, CA, and have had any damage, the following four suggestions can help restore these objects to their original glory.

1. Rinse soiled items with clean water. Dab off any debris from the surface with a clean dry cloth. Make sure you are careful not to grind any particles further into the material. Dry cleaning can also help to remove any light residues that are visible on certain fabrics and materials. Place the drying objects away from any remaining water in the home.

2. Remove pictures, paintings, and paper from casings or holders. For example, take photographs out of frames and let both sides of the paper dry. Take books off of shelves and open them up, switching to different pages every couple of hours. Keep paper and paintings away from direct sunlight, as it might damage them further.

3. Hang or prop objects so they can dry completely on all sides. Soiled furniture should be propped on stable blocks. Allow fans and air conditioning to blow directly onto the items. Opening windows can also help reduce the amount of humidity in a wet room. Avoid attempting to repair or restore anything while it may still be damp on the inside.

4. Carefully handle electronics. Do not try to run any electronics that you think may have been exposed to moisture. Unplug the electronics if necessary, dry their external frames, and contact a professional restoration company. Qualified electronic technicians can tell you which pieces are still in working condition and which others might be salvageable.

Damage from excess water in a home can result from many different sources such as a leaking roof, a broken pipe, a faulty sink or toilet leak, or another natural flooding. Regardless of the water source, however, time is always of the essence when it comes to properly caring for these wet items.