How to Handle Smoke Damage to Clothing and Personal Belongings

12/11/2024 (Permalink)

Knowing how to properly handle these items can help restore them and prevent further damage.

After a fire, the smoke damage left behind on clothing and personal belongings can be overwhelming.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more than 26% of reported fires occur in homes, leaving many homeowners dealing with the aftermath, including smoke damage. Beyond visible soot, smoke leaves behind odors and particles that can linger in fabrics, furniture, and other materials. Knowing how to properly handle these items can help restore them and prevent further damage. SERVPRO of Monroe, Randolph & Washington Counties is here to guide you with expert advice on dealing with smoke-damaged personal belongings.

Steps to Handle Smoke-Damaged Clothing and Fabrics

Clothing and fabric-based items such as curtains, blankets and clothing are particularly vulnerable to smoke damage. If these items are not treated properly, the smoke odor and soot can set in, making restoration much harder. Here’s what you should do:

1. Separate Affected Items

Start by separating smoke-damaged clothing and fabrics from those that were not exposed. This prevents cross-contamination and keeps the damage from spreading to other items.

2. Ventilation is Key

Before cleaning, take your smoke-damaged items outside if possible. Letting them air out can help release some of the smoke particles and reduce odors. If bringing items outside isn’t an option, open windows to increase airflow in the affected area.

3. Avoid Regular Washing Machines

Smoke particles can embed deeply in fabrics, and regular detergents and washing machines may not be strong enough to remove them. Consider using specialized cleaning solutions or taking the items to a professional restoration service.

4. Use Odor-Removing Products

There are cleaning products designed specifically for removing smoke odors from fabrics. Enzyme-based cleaners are particularly effective for breaking down smoke particles trapped in clothing and other materials. You can find these products at many home improvement or cleaning supply stores.

5. Seek Professional Help for Delicate Items

For items like leather goods, fur, or delicate fabrics, it's best to seek professional cleaning services. These items require special care and attention to ensure they aren’t damaged further during the restoration process.

Dealing with Smoke-Damaged Personal Belongings

Personal belongings such as furniture, electronics, books, and important documents can also suffer from smoke damage. Here’s how to manage some of these these items:

1. Cleaning Upholstered Furniture

Smoke particles can get deeply embedded into upholstered furniture. Using a HEPA vacuum can help remove loose soot and debris from the surface. Follow this by using upholstery-safe cleaning solutions to remove smoke odors and stains.

2. Handling Electronics

Smoke can also affect electronics. Soot can settle inside delicate components, leading to damage or malfunctions. Avoid turning on any smoke-exposed electronics before they’ve been professionally cleaned. Contact a specialist to inspect and clean your electronic devices.

3. Cleaning Hard Surfaces

Personal items with hard surfaces, such as wooden furniture or decorative items, can often be cleaned with mild soap and water. However, soot can be greasy, so it’s best to use specialized cleaning solutions made for smoke damage.

Professional Help for Smoke Damage

While there are some steps you can take to clean up smoke damage, professional help may be required, especially for heavily damaged items. Professional fire restoration companies, like SERVPRO®, have the tools and expertise to properly clean, deodorize, and restore smoke-damaged belongings. If you need help restoration your belongings back to their pre-fire condition, give us a call!