Experiencing water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming situation. As you begin the cleanup process, it’s crucial to handle contaminated clothes and linens with care to prevent further damage and ensure your safety.
Steps for Cleaning Contaminated Clothes and Linens
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Sort and Separate: Sort contaminated clothes and linens into separate piles for towels, bedding, and clothing. This helps contain the spread of contaminants.
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Wash Immediately: Wash contaminated fabrics as soon as possible in hot water (140°F or higher) with a regular detergent. Do not use bleach, as it can set stains and damage fabrics.
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Use Chlorine Bleach for Whites: For white fabrics, add chlorine bleach to the wash water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps kill bacteria and remove stains.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse fabrics thoroughly to remove all traces of detergent and bleach. Use cold water for the final rinse.
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Dry Thoroughly: Dry fabrics on high heat in a dryer or hang them to dry completely. Complete drying prevents the growth of mold and bacteria.
Additional Tips
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Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling contaminated linens.
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Avoid drying contaminated fabrics on surfaces or objects that are not washable.
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Discard any fabrics that cannot be salvaged.
Conclusion
By following these steps and taking appropriate precautions, you can effectively clean up contaminated clothes and linens after a flood, preventing further damage and ensuring your health and safety.