When your home floods, your problems don't just end when the waters recede. Standing water, damp walls, and wet carpet are just a few of the breeding grounds for mold that you'll need to worry about when recovering from a flood. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent mold growth from spreading and to get your home feeling more like its old self. Use this guide to help plan and prepare for your post-flood cleanup.

Wear Protective Gear

The first thing you should do when attempting to clean up your home from a flood is to wear the proper protective gear. Not only might there be mold in the home, but depending on the source of the flood waters, there might be raw sewage or disease in the waters as well. Wear clothing that you aren't concerned about keeping after cleanup is done, and invest in a pair of tall rain boots or galoshes to keep your feet dry. You'll also want to wear gloves to keep your hands free from germs. A respirator will help to prevent you from breathing in mold spores, and goggles will protect your eyes during the cleanup process. Look for goggles without side vents, as the vents can let mold and other contaminants in the air get into your eyes.

Remove Damaged Flooring And Walls

Wet walls and water-logged flooring can be breeding grounds for mold. You can remove your carpeting and padding and move it outside on your lawn where it can begin to dry out. Cut away any portions of your drywall that have become damaged by water as well. When you remove water-damaged items, you'll also want to contact a mold remediation company to have them assess any potential mold growth in the home and take steps to eliminate the problem.

Scrub The Home

Whether your home has mold in it or not, you'll want to do a thorough scrubbing of your home before moving back in. Some mold remediation companies also offer flood damage cleanup services, so you can hire professionals to do all the scrubbing and sanitizing while looking for potential mold problems. If you do decide to do the cleaning on your own, be sure to use disposable sponges, and change them out often throughout the cleaning process. A solution of bleach and hot water can help you to sanitize the home. Pay particular attention to the kitchen, making sure to throw away any packages of food that may have been exposed to the flood waters.

If you are unsure whether or not there is mold growth in your home after a flood, contact a mold remediation company like Armstrong West to perform an inspection. With a little help, you can make your home safe and comfortable once again.