After fire damage, it is natural to want to clean a building and its contents. Timely action can be a great help, but incorrect cleaning can jeopardize or seriously the restoration process.
DO:
- Clean and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil
- Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapery and carpet
- Open windows for ventilation
- Change furnace filter if blower is operating
- Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off, and prop doors open with a rolled towel or newspaper
- Clean and protect smoked bathroom faucets, tub fittings and towel bars with light coating of oil
- Pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks, and tubs to prevent freezing if heat is off in winter
- Wash plants with water on both sides of leaves (water softener helps)
- Call plumber to drain heating system if heat is off in winter
- Remove pets (especially birds) to clean environments
DON’T:
- Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces
- Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided
- Use exposed food items, or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat
- Use TVs, stereos, or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked
- Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner – improper cleaning may set smoke and odor
If you have additional questions about how to help in the cleaning process after a fire, feel free to reach out to us.