Fire Damage Clean Up Service in New Jersey
5/14/2018 (Permalink)
Soot is oily and easily stains most household textiles.
Don’t try to clean up soot using your vacuum because the brushes and most attachments tend to force soot deeper into fabrics.
A fire restoration company will have access to chemical cleaning additives called “counteractants” that break down smoke at the molecular level to eliminate odors. There are various types of counteractants available, and which should be used varies with the type of materials that burned in the fire. Dry cleaners may also be able to provide them to you for washing clothing.
To clean soot from walls and other flat surfaces, use a chemical sponge available from a cleaning supply company or at minimum a non-water-based cleaner. Rubbing alcohol or diluted paint thinner may also work for particularly nasty soot, but only use with caution because of the danger of toxic fumes. Remember to wear rubber gloves and use proper ventilation while working.
If you suffer a fire damage event, please refer to our Fire Damage Tips—Until Help Arrives Guide and follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.