Care of flood-damaged upholstered furniture
Upholstered furniture that has been submerged in flood waters
may be impossible to salvage if it has been badly soaked. If the
piece seems worth the effort, you will need to clean and oil the
springs, replace stuffing and clean the frame.
Stuffing and covering
- Remove furniture coverings using a ripping tool, hammer,
tack puller, screwdriver or chisel.
- Remove all tacks from the frame.
- Wash coverings as described for carpets (link).
- Throw away all cotton stuffing. You can dry, fumigate and
reuse padding made of other materials.
Springs and frame
- Wipe off springs and frame. Dry all metal parts and coat
with rust-inhibiting paint. Oil springs.
- Store wood frames where they will dry slowly.
Mildew
Mildew may develop on damp or wet furniture. Mildew is a
gray-white mold that leaves stains and rots fabric unless it is
removed promptly. To remove mildew or mildew spots:
- Brush with a broom to remove loose mold from outer
covering. Do this outdoors if possible, so you won't
scatter mildew spores which can start new growth in the
house.
- Vacuum the surface to draw out mold. Dispose of the
vacuum cleaner bag outside to avoid scattering mold
spores in the house.
- If mildew remains and fabric is washable, sponge lightly
with thick soap or detergent suds. Wipe with a clean,
damp cloth. Get as little water on the fabric as
possible, so the padding doesn't get wet.
- If mold remains, wipe the furniture with a damp cloth
dipped in diluted alcohol (1 cup denatured alcohol to 1
cup water) or a chlorine bleach solution (1/4 teaspoon
bleach to a cup of water).
- Dry article thoroughly.
- Use a low-pressure spray containing a fungicide to get
rid of must odors and remaining mildew. Moisten all
surfaces thoroughly. Respray frequently if mildew is a
continuing problem. Spraying rooms with an aerosol
material will not eliminate mildew problems.
- If molds have grown into inner parts, send furniture to a
dry cleaning or storage company for thorough drying and
fumigation. Fumigation will kill molds present at the
time but will not protect against future attacks.
For more information, contact the University of Missouri Extension center
in your county, or call 573-882-7477.
Reviewed
12/12/07
