How Do I Clean up After a Sewage Backup Safely?

Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause serious illness. Do not enter the room without protection. Wear rubber boots, gloves, and a mask that covers your nose and mouth. If you have any open cuts or sores, stay out completely.

Turn off the electricity at the breaker if the floor is wet or water is near outlets. Avoid touching anything electrical. Open windows to let fresh air in. If you feel unwell or have trouble breathing, leave the area and see a doctor.

• Keep children and pets away
• Wear rubber boots and gloves
• Use a mask for your mouth and nose
• Turn off power if safe
• Open windows for air
• Do not eat or drink in the area

Do not try to mop up sewage with regular towels or a household mop. That spreads contamination. Use a wet vacuum designed for sewage cleanup, or let the pros handle it. If you must remove small items, put them in heavy plastic bags and seal them tightly.

Anything porous that touched sewage, like carpet, drywall, or upholstered furniture, usually needs to be thrown away. These materials soak up fluids and cannot be fully cleaned. The pros will remove and dispose of these items properly. Keep track of what you throw away for your records.

• Use a wet vacuum built for sewage
• Bag porous items in sealed plastic
• Throw away carpet and drywall
• Keep a list of damaged items
• Do not use household mops
• Avoid touching sewage with bare hands

Sewage leaves behind moisture that can lead to mold growth, especially in warm, humid weather. The local climate with cold winters and warm, humid summers means drying is important all year. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the area completely after cleaning.

Keep the area dry for several days and watch for musty smells or new stains. If you see mold or smell something off, call a mold professional. The pros can also check for hidden damage in walls and flooring. Do not rush to rebuild until everything is dry.