Don’t sit down yet – wet furniture needs cleaning

Salvaging personal possessions such as furniture is one of the main tasks on the to-do list immediately after a tornado, flood or other natural disaster. The easiest route often is to use a professional cleaner, but if that is not an option, you can do it yourself.

 

One of the biggest concerns is preventing and treating mold that may have formed on damp furniture, said Gina Peek, assistant director, Oklahoma State University Extension/Family Consumer Science program leader and associate dean for Extension and Engagement in the College of Education and Human Sciences. 

 

Before getting started on the task, however, homeowners should contact their insurance company and take photos of the damage, Peek said.

 

Hard, non-porous furniture made of plastic, glass and metal may easily be cleaned using a mild soap and water solution. Leather items may be wiped clean of visible mold with a solution of 1 cup of denatured alcohol mixed with 1 cup of water. Be sure to test the solution on an inconspicuous area first because it may discolor the material. 

 

“Mold can cause stains and cosmetic damage, and in some cases, even thoroughly cleaning the furniture won’t restore an item to its original appearance,” Peek said. “That’s part of the reason homeowners must act quickly in these situations.” 

 

Upholstered furniture and mattresses are susceptible to mold growth and should be dried out immediately. For best results, take the item outside and brush or vacuum away mold on the surface. If the vacuum bag is disposable, throw it away. Next, carefully sponge down the piece with detergent and wipe with a clean cloth.

 

“You don’t want to use too much water and risk getting the furniture even wetter,” Peek said. “Be sure the stuffing remains dry. Set clean pieces outside in the sun for several hours, if possible, or use a fan and indirect heat to speed up the drying process. Allow every item to dry thoroughly. Depending on the condition, some furniture may need to be discarded.” 

 

Wet wood pieces need to be completely dry before cleaning, Peek said. 

 

For more information cleaning up after a natural disaster, contact the local OSU Extension office.