Recovering from mold damage is a long and thorough process that goes far beyond the removal and elimination of mold and its sources. You’ll need the help of a mold remediation specialist, and at some point, you’ll have to decide what is worth keeping and what should be thrown away. For the health and safety of your family, use the guide below to figure out how to deal with damaged items after mold removal.

How to Handle Belongings With Mold Damage

What Should You Throw Out?

Dispose of all food and food preparation appliances that came into contact with mold or flood water. Although some appliances can be cleaned, improper cleaning can contaminate food and may cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and illness. It could also result in the recontamination of your home.

Porous surfaces, such as mattresses and box springs, upholstered furniture, soft toys, carpet, paper products, and cardboard, are particularly vulnerable to mold growth and damage. Sometimes paper items can be salvaged, which can allow you to keep sentimental belongings like photo albums and autographed books.

The Northeast Document Conservation Center details how to safely save paper products with mold damage through freezing and the use of a HEPA vacuum. Never handle moldy materials without the proper protective gear.

What Can You Keep?

Nonporous surfaces such as glass, plastic, and metal can easily be cleaned and preserved. As long as they weren’t damaged by flood water, larger electronics and appliances with limited mold exposure are also generally safe to clean and keep. If the internal systems were exposed to mold and moisture, however, they may not function properly and will need to be replaced.

Washing fabrics with standard laundry detergent is generally enough to salvage your clothing after mold removal. Keep in mind that washing will not restore clothing to its original condition if it has been damaged. Leather should be sent to a professional for proper cleaning, since this material requires special care.

If your household is dealing with a mold problem, contact the experts at Big Mountain Insulators in Whitefish, MT, for safe and effective removal. Serving Flathead County for over 40 years, these contractors adhere to strict EPA guidelines and industry certification protocols to eliminate mold, identify the source, and prevent future contamination. Visit their website for more information about mold removal, or call (406) 862-5446 to schedule a mold inspection.