How to Safely Remove Wildfire Smoke Odors from Your Home
The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have left many residents dealing with the aftermath, including the stubborn smell of smoke that seems impossible to get rid of. If you’re one of those facing this challenge, don’t worry – experts have shared their best tips for safely removing wildfire smoke odors from your home.
Understanding Wildfire Smoke and Its Dangers
Wildfires generate a mix of harmful pollutants, including toxic particulate matter that can pose serious health risks. These particles can infiltrate your home, causing respiratory issues, cancer, and other health problems. The smoke from the recent fires in Los Angeles contains a variety of harmful particles from the materials that burned, such as asbestos and lead, making the odor particularly potent and persistent.
Scott Huml, from Tactical Mitigation Services, warns that the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the smoke are a major contributor to the lingering smell. These compounds can stick to walls and ceilings, continuing to release odors for weeks or even months after the fire has been extinguished.
Steps to Take When Returning Home
When you’re given the all-clear to return home after a wildfire, it’s crucial to assess the situation carefully. Take photos of any visible damage, ash, or soot, and check for any signs of contamination in your attic or HVAC system. Dr. Noah Greenspan advises that if you see physical evidence of soot or damage, assume there are invisible toxins present as well.
To protect yourself, ensure you have a working carbon monoxide detector and change or clean your HVAC filters. Consider renting an air scrubber for intensive air cleaning and investing in a HEPA filter air purifier for long-term air quality improvement.
Effective Ways to Eliminate Smoke Odors
When it comes to cleaning up smoke odors, there are specific methods that experts recommend. Avoid using wet mops, as they can push soot into surfaces. Instead, use dry microfiber cloths to wipe down walls and surfaces, followed by a damp towel with mild detergent for a deeper clean.
Karie Miller suggests using a HEPA-filtered vacuum to remove soot from furniture and carpets, and placing bowls of baking soda or charcoal to absorb lingering odors. Remember to clean blankets, curtains, and vacuum filters to ensure all sources of odor are addressed.
When to Seek Professional Help
If the smoke damage in your home is extensive or if you’re unsure about the extent of contamination, it’s best to call in professional cleaners. Professionals like Scott Huml use specialized equipment to decontaminate surfaces, remove soot, and clean the air effectively. Costs for professional smoke odor removal can vary widely based on the extent of the damage, but the investment is often worth it for thorough and safe cleaning.
Removing smoke odors from your home after a wildfire can be a challenging process, but with the right techniques and expert guidance, you can restore your living space to its pre-fire condition. Remember to prioritize safety and thoroughness in your cleanup efforts to ensure a healthy environment for you and your family.
