Three tips for smoke damage

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Suffering fire or smoke damage in the home can seem like the end of the world. You’re just constantly reminded of the event. It’s common to want to focus on removing the evidence. It is possible, but it will take some dedication and work. Here are the top tips for smoke removal.

Start by Cleaning Areas

The first thing to do is clean any areas that were damaged by the smoke or fire. You want to get some mild soap and warm water and use it on your cabinets, doors, walls, and all other surfaces in the home. The smoke can lead to bacteria growth, which could up the family at risk later on. Even if you’re not sure if there was smoke damage, take the steps to disinfect.

You’ll want to ensure the areas dry promptly.  This will help the area with the removal of smoke odor in the home. Mild soap has a neutral smell that helps to get rid of the burning or smoky scents.

Use Baking Soda on Your Carpets

You’ll be tempted to use mild soap on your carpets. This can be useful, but you can also do a different and easier trick for Newport Beach smoke removal. Grab some baking soda and sprinkle it across all carpets and rugs. Brush the baking soda into the carpet to make sure you get into all the fibers and then leave it all overnight.

The next morning, vacuum your carpets. You should get a neutral smell. The baking soda will help to balance the acid nature of the smoke, while covering up the dirty, damaged scent.

Once you’ve finished with the baking soda, steam clean your carpets and all your upholstery. This works to deodorize fabric throughout your home. If you don’t do this, the scents will stick deep within the fibers and you’ll smell them at a later date. It’s much harder to remove later.

Make Sure the HVAC Filters Are Cleaned

You’ll be surprised at where the smoke can get to. While taking care of most smoke removal in Newport Beach yourself, there are some elements that you’ll need to hire a professional for. This is especially the case for the HVAC system.

The smoke will get into the filters and air ducts. It can also get into the furnace and air conditioning unit. Make sure everything is thoroughly cleaned. If you leave the smoke particles, you just end up putting the damaging elements back into your air. You continue to put your family at risk and all the other tips have been useless.

Change the filters after any fire or evidence of smoke. Even if the rest of the HVAC unit is safe, changing the air filters is part of your regular maintenance and will look after the health and longevity of the unit.

Smoke gets everywhere. If your project needs professional attention give SERVPRO of Newport Beach a call 949-646-2073