Water damage cleanup can feel overwhelming, but when carpeting is involved, the situation can present additional challenges. Whether it’s a smaller area from a spill or a window accidentally left open, or a larger problem from a full-scale basement flood, getting your carpet clean and dry as quickly as possible is the key to preventing further water damage. Follow the steps below for getting started with safe and efficient water damage cleanup, and look forward to enjoying clean, fluffy carpets again in the near future.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Where is the water coming from? If the water damage is a result of clean water, like rainwater or tap water, drying and cleaning your carpets should be a simple process. However, if you don’t know the source of the water, such as in a house flood, you should be especially cautious. Water containing contaminants, like mold spores or sewage, can present dangers for your health. Carpets that have been soaked in this type of water should usually be replaced for your safety, not cleaned.
Step 2: Air Out the Area
Before your carpets can be cleaned, they first need to be dried to prevent mold growth and to prevent an excess of water when steam cleaning. Turning on your home’s air conditioning and using a dehumidifier are two quick and simple ways you can prepare your carpet before the cleaners arrive.
Step 3: Cleaning the Carpets
Once you’ve identified your carpets have not been in contact with contaminated water and you’ve dried them as much as you can, it’s time to move on to the final stage of water damage cleanup—getting your carpets clean. Steam cleaning is recommended for water damage cleanup, since this method offers the opportunity to sanitize your carpets and further reduce any potential growth of mold or mildew.
When choosing a steam cleaning company, it’s important you carefully review their credentials, especially if your water damage cleanup involves contaminated water, as special equipment and safety protocols need to be followed. Here at Undisputed Steamers, we have ten years of experience cleaning carpets and will be proud to restore your home to its beautiful, clean state.