Clean Your Home After A Fire

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after a fire can be devastating and overwhelming. SERVPRO of Hackensack/Little Ferry can help and make the process less stressful.

If you’ve experienced fire damage in your home or business, you’ve undoubtedly observed that smoke and soot can unfortunately damage almost all kinds of surfaces and materials. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY, because in most cases, everything from cleaning to replacement is most likely covered.

The amount of soot and smoke may also be inundating, so calling SERVPRO of Hackensack /Little Ferry may help you feel less stressed and overwhelmed.

In the event that you want to start cleaning, begin as quickly as you can, in order to prevent the effects of long-term damage.

Smoke and Soot Stains from Wood

As long as your wooden items aren’t charred, you should be able to clean them with a mild oil soap. Rinse with water, and let them air dry.

Smoke and Soot Stains from Upholstery

If you can remove stained upholstery, your best bet is to bring it to a dry cleaner that specializes in cleaning fire damaged fabrics.

If you have upholstery that’s can’t be removed, vacuum the surface with a shop vac, keeping the hose just above the surface to prevent rubbing in the stain even more. Next, sprinkle the stain with baking soda and allow it to sit for at least one hour. Then, spray the stain with white vinegar and wipe with a damp rag.

For hard-to-clean stains, you may have to let the baking soda sit longer (sometimes overnight) and/or repeat the cleaning process multiple times.

Smoke and Soot Stains from Metal

Use a polish that is specially designed for the specific type of metal you have. Gently rub the stain with the polish and then wipe away with a clean rag, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke and Soot Stains from Glass

To clean glass, you can often use a commercial glass cleaner or a homemade solution of one-part water to one-part vinegar. You’ll want to avoid spraying the glass, as this can leave smoke streaks. Instead, apply the solution to the rag and start wiping at the edge of the stain moving inward.

Smoke and Soot Stains from Leather

You can clean fire damaged leather with a specialized leather soap and conditioner, though be sure not to get the leather too wet, as this can create additional stains.

If you need help to restore your property after fire damage, remember that SERVPRO of Hackensack/Little Ferry is always here to help.