Flooding can be very damaging to your home or business building. If you are living in an area which is prone to flooding, you should certainly be aware of the process of cleaning up your home before you are faced with the situation. The following are a series of steps which will help you safely and effectively clean your home after flooding:

Step #1

If the flooding brought mud into your home, use a shovel for its removal. Keep in mind that the mud is most likely contaminated. Therefore, use boots and rubber gloves before extricating the mud from your home. After you have shovelled the majority of the mud, use a hose to remove the rest.

Step #2

Scrub down all of the walls, counters, shelving, flooring, as well as any other surface which was affected by the flooding. Using a mixture of bleach and water is the most effective. To make the solution, use chlorinated bleach (2 tablespoons) per gallon of warmed water.

Step #3

Remove all of the clothing, curtains, rugs, furniture, and other items from the area and allow them to thoroughly air out in the yard. If there are items which have been extensively damaged and cannot be cleaned or disinfected properly, these objects should be disposed of. Such items commonly include carpets and rugs.

Step #4

Open all of the windows in the house and use a fan and dehumidifier in order to make sure that all of the moisture is removed. Any mildew and mold should be vacuumed up. However, make sure that you protect yourself from potential mildew inhalation with a face mask.

Step #5

Replace all panelling, wallboard, plaster, and flooring which have been contaminated by the water. This will allow the space beneath or behind the materials to thoroughly dry, eliminating the risk for mold and mildew. Make sure to remove damp insulation as well as this could become mildewed.

Step #6

Make sure that all of the debris and mud has been cleaned from all objects in the home. If you are not able to clean them right away, place the objects in plastic bags and put them in the freezer so that they can be cleaned at a later date.

Step #7

Make sure to shower and wash your hands with warm water and soap after cleaning your home. Clothes should also be cleaned in a strong detergent and hot water and should remain separate from other items until thoroughly clean.