Mold and Your Possessions

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

Not all possessions will be able to be restored after dealing with mold damage but here are a few ways to try and save some of your possessions that you can do on your own. 

1. Air dry them away from other objects. Spread out any papers, stand books on end and fan the pages open. Use clean towels or absorbent paper between layers of cloth or paper. Use a fan, but don't aim the fan directly at objects.
2. If you don't have time to dry objects quickly, you can freeze books, documents and small textiles, until the area conditions are right. Do not freeze mold photographs. 
3. Ultraviolet light can be damaging, brief exposure to sunlight can stop mold growth and aid drying. However, exposure should not exceed 30 minutes.
4. Only clean mold once it is dry and inactive. Gently wipe or brush away mold residue. Do this outdoors if possible and always wear protective clothing and a respirator. 
5. Avoid using harsh cleaning products like bleach, they can ruin your possessions. Never vacuum fragile objects. If you use a vacuum, do it outside since the exhaust can spread mold spores. 
6. Make sure the affected area is free of mold before returning your possessions to their rightful place. Reinspect the objects from time to time for any new mold growth. 
7. Valuable artifacts and photographs should be handled by a professional. 

Need help with mold remediation from your possessions, SERVPRO of Metro Pittsburgh East can make it "Like it never even happened."