Water damage can wreak havoc on your home and property, but if you call us quickly enough and let us inspect the damage, we can help you get it back as close to normal as possible. In the meantime, we strongly suggest that you take the following steps to keep your loved ones, pets, and property safe until the water damage has been quickly cleaned up.

How to Clean up:

1. Ensure the water has been completely shut off to the appliances in your kitchen and bathroom. Then, use a non-woven, blue microfiber cloth to clean any condensation that might have pooled on the bottom of metal or glass surfaces. Repeat this step as needed to remove any lingering moisture from your cabinets. If the humidity persists or you see any mold growth, contact a professional to help you deal with it ASAP. Remove all visible water or steam within two feet of the source using a spray bottle filled with distilled white vinegar and a coarse bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach to 2 gallons of water). Repeat as needed until all visible signs and smells are gone, then use another spray bottle to apply a diluted bleach solution to hard-to-reach areas or spots that still smell like an off odor.

2. Next, inspect your refrigerator and freezer for any signs of water leakage. Do not touch them with your bare hands if they're showing visible damage! Instead, use a clean microfiber cloth or sponge to gently wipe clean along the sides and underneath both appliances until you can see no traces of water are present. If you see signs that the water has caused damage, contact us immediately to schedule an inspection before using them again.

If your cabinets are warped, or you see any other visible signs of water damage, call a professional for help. You should never attempt to repair this type of damage yourself or give it a DIY-style fix—most can leave it vulnerable to mold and mildew if not properly repaired by a professional contractor.

3. Use a damp, clean microfiber cloth to wipe down your kitchen cabinets, drawers, and shelves. Then, use your utility knife to cut any areas that may have been severely damaged in the water. Apply a thick layer of drywall mud all over the kitchen's surfaces. Let this dry for at least 30 minutes before you continue with steps 5 or 6 below, depending on your specific situation. If you see any areas that are still visible signs of water damage, such as cracked corners or some areas that appear gently warped, don't panic! Call a professional to patch up these areas before using your kitchen again for this step.

4. If there are signs of swollen wood, use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the affected area until you can see no traces of water. Remember that water damage is often much worse than it looks, so don't assume that the damage isn't as bad as it appears!

Use a clean rag to wipe down all of your kitchen cabinets and doors and the drawers and shelves inside. You aim to remove the caked-on water and mud from each surface and any lingering grime, mold, or bacteria.

5. If you have time, allow the patched area to dry for at least 24 hours before using the final step below to clean up any lingering odors. Place your fan on the highest setting and direct it towards the kitchen cabinet area damaged by water. Close all the doors on your cabinets (except for the damaged ones) and all your kitchen cabinets (except the damaged ones). Leave all drawers open until your fan completely dries out the affected area.

A water-damaged kitchen can be hacked back to its former glory, even if the damage is as severe as a flood in the middle of the night. You will save thousands of dollars, get a reputable contractor, and know what has been damaged or destroyed. If you keep your wits about you and follow these simple steps, your kitchen can be quickly and painlessly restored to normal for a fraction of the cost!