How to clean smoke damage in your home

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke damage on kitchen counter

After a fire, the smell of smoke can linger in your home and soot can sit on your furniture, clothing, and walls. If not taken care of properly, the smoke and soot can cause further damage – both to your home and your family. While it’s extremely important to contact a fire restoration company after a larger fire, there are some DIY steps you can take to clean up very minor smoke damage (ex. smoke damage to the wall inside your fireplace). Let’s break down how to clean smoke damage in your home and how this process can vary from item to item.

Asses the damage caused by the smoke

The first step when cleaning smoke damage is to assess the extent of the damage. This means taking an inventory of all items that were damaged by smoke and soot, as well as any surfaces that need to be cleaned and/or repaired. It’s important to remember that even if something looks undamaged, it may still need to be thrown away because it could contain toxic chemicals. 

Depending on the severity of the smoke damage, it may be necessary to contact a professional smoke and fire restoration company. These companies can make sure that your contents and home are restored properly, as well as ensure all harmful chemicals are removed. Even if you do not have a large area damaged by the smoke and soot, it may be worthwhile to contact a professional for expert guidance.

Cleaning and Sanitizing Surfaces 

Once you have identified which surfaces need to be cleaned or sanitized, it’s time to get down to business. You should start with a gentle detergent and warm water mixture applied directly onto affected areas with a sponge or cloth. 

Make sure all surfaces are treated thoroughly and rinsed properly after cleaning; this will help avoid any permanent staining from the soot and ash left behind by the fire. For extra protection against odors caused by smoke, try using an enzymatic cleaner designed specifically for this issue; these cleaners work by breaking down odor molecules instead of just masking them with scents like most traditional air fresheners do. 

During this process, you’ll want to wear protective gear and masks. This process can be harmful to your health and the health of others if the proper precautions are not taken.

Cleaning Walls and Ceilings 

Use a mild detergent mixed with water and apply it directly onto the surface of your wall and ceiling with a soft cloth or sponge. Make sure not to scrub too hard as this could cause further damage. When finished, rinse the area with plain water and allow it to dry completely before painting or wallpapering over it. 

In some cases, severe smoke damage and wet soot cannot easily be removed from walls and ceilings, and it is often necessary to remove and reconstruct.

Cleaning Floors 

To start cleaning your floors, sweep them thoroughly using a broom or vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter attachment. Once this is done, mix together a mild detergent and warm water, and mop the floors using a soft-bristled brush or mop head. Rinse the area with plain water when finished and allow it time to dry completely before replacing floor coverings. 

Cleaning Furniture 

To clean furniture affected by smoke damage, you will need to use an upholstery cleaner specifically designed for removing soot stains from fabrics such as furniture fabric or curtains. You may also need an ammonia-based cleaner for leather furniture if necessary. Make sure not to saturate any fabric while cleaning as this could cause further staining or discoloration of the material itself. 

Allow areas to dry completely

It is important to make sure that all affected areas are completely dry before applying any new paint or treatments; otherwise they won't stick correctly. If necessary, use fans or dehumidifiers (you can rent these if needed) in order to speed up drying time before beginning repairs and reconstruction. 

Cleaning up after a house fire can be a daunting task but it doesn't have to be overwhelming if you take it one step at a time. By following these tips for cleaning up after a house fire, you should find yourself back in your home much sooner than expected! And remember, for larger house fires that are contained to a few square feet, it is likely that you’ll need to contact a professional fire restoration company. This is especially important for the long-term health of you and your family, as well as the long-term structural integrity of your home.