How to Clean up a Flooded Basement

After the flood; Before the cleanup!

With the advent of spring rains, some of us experience flooding in our basements. Even if you have a floor drain, excessive rain can cause it to back up and the room may start filling with water faster than it can drain out. Cleaning up can be a daunting task, but with an organized attack and some elbow grease it can be accomplished.

Things You'll Need

• Wet/Dry Vacuum, Mop, Bucket, Broom, Squeegee, Bleach, Cat is optional

Instructions

1. 

   If you have a floor drain, after the rain stops, the water should drain out. If it doesn't or you don't have a drain you will have to pump it out. This article will not cover that task but will deal with the clean up after the major water is gone.
   In some older houses, the basement floor may not be level so the water may be deeper in some areas than others. Take note of where the water is deepest. Hopefully this will be near the drain, but it may not be.
   If you have rugs or carpet in your basement they should be removed. They (especially carpet) will take a long time to dry and will be a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

2. Okay, the major water is now gone leaving a thin film of mud all over your floor. To clean, start with the highest areas and work toward the lower area, preferably the floor drain. Start with a bucket of fresh water and throw it on the floor to loosen the semi-dried mud. Then immediately sweep or squeegee the water toward the lower area taking the mud with it. If you are moving the water toward the drain, it should drain out. If it's a low area but not a drain, use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the water. If you have a toilet in your basement, the water from the vacuum may be dumped there. Otherwise you will have to carry it outside or pump it out. Do this step quickly to prevent the dirt in the water from settling out. Move to the next area and repeat this procedure.

3. Once you have completed Step 2 above, do the same thing a second time, this time using bleach water (1 cup bleach per gallon of water) to clean and disinfect the floor. Again, squeegee the water from each area toward the drain/low area and let it drain out or vacuum it up. Use a mop to clean up hard to reach or very dirty areas. Once you are done the floor will still be damp. You may use one or more fans to speed up the drying process.

4. 

   Now you are essentially done. You may return your stuff to the basement, at least that which hasn't been damaged by the water. If any appliances have gotten wet, be sure they are thoroughly dry before plugging them in. It's a good idea to open the cases to be sure there is no water remaining inside and the wiring and circuit boards are dry. You may now live happily ever after. Or at least until the next rain.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid prolonged exposure to bleach fumes. If your basement is not well ventilated, go outside periodically to get some fresh air.