If you experience a fire in your Layton home, you may be dealing with smoke and soot damage. When damage is extensive, it may require a professional for smoke damage cleanup. If you have only a small area of smoke damage to clean, there are some things you can do yourself before calling fire damage restoration experts in Layton. This proactive approach can help prevent additional damage and remove soot before permanent damage occurs.

Smoke damage  can be extremely unpleasant to clean. While much of the damage may require a professional, here are some do-it-yourself cleanup tips to help you deal with the aftermath.

1. Always use the proper safety equipment, including a facemask and gloves.
2. Start the cleanup process as quickly as possible. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove smoke damage.
3. Ventilate your house well by opening windows and running fans. Although the fire may have only affected one area of your house, smoke can permeate a larger area. Airing things out will make your cleaning efforts more effective.
4. Throw away perishable food items that may have been exposed to smoke.
5. Clean up soot before any other cleaning occurs. Soot stains easily and should be addressed first. Suck up soot using a vacuum with a cleaner attachment nozzle. Avoid using an upright vacuum, as this tends to grind the soot into the carpet.
6. Thoroughly clean and disinfect appliances. Smoke can cause malfunctions in the mechanisms. Be sure to test and make sure appliances are running smoothly before operating them.
7. Clean discolored areas on walls by applying paint thinner or rubbing alcohol. Be sure to ventilate properly before beginning. In some cases walls will need to be repainted.
8. Deodorize furniture, walls, floors, and ceiling using white vinegar. Dip a clean rag into the vinegar and wipe down the affected areas.
9. Baking soda can also be used to absorb odors in the air. Place in a bowl in each of the affected rooms. You can also sprinkle some over furniture and other surfaces to counteract the odor.
10. For clothing and other washable items, combine 1 cup dishwashing detergent in 1 gallon of warm water and submerge the affected items overnight. For larger items such as quilts or comforters, you might need to visit a Laundromat.
11. Change the filter in your air conditioner. A great deal of soot will have likely built up there following exposure to smoke damage.
12. Wipe down books that have been affected by smoke with a dry sponge. Focus on the edges and spines, the areas most exposed to the smoke. Make sure to handle gently, as smoke damage can cause books to be brittle. For more valuable books, consult a book restoration professional.

Smoke Damage Cleanup Layton

If you are in need of professional fire and smoke damage cleanup services in Layton, contact Swift Restoration & Cleaning today. Smoke and soot will continue to cause damage as long as it is present, and prompt action is the best way to prevent additional damage to your belongings.