In the wake of Hurricane Milton, homes across Sarasota, Venice, Englewood, and surrounding areas are dealing with the aftermath of strong winds, flooding, and debris. Recovering your living space can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can restore comfort and safety to your home. As your trusted local cleaning service, Maids in Purple is here to help you with essential post-hurricane cleaning tips to make the process easier and more effective.
1. Prioritize Safety First
After any major storm, it’s crucial to ensure that your home is safe to enter before starting any cleaning. If there was significant flooding, inspect your property for structural damage, gas leaks, or electrical hazards. Contact a professional if you’re unsure about the safety of any area. Once cleared, wear protective gloves, masks, and closed-toe shoes during the cleaning process.
2. Remove All Standing Water
Floodwaters can introduce bacteria, mold, and other harmful contaminants into your home. Begin by draining and drying areas with standing water, especially in lower levels like basements or garages. You can rent or buy a wet/dry vacuum to speed up the process. For larger flooding issues, consider calling a water damage restoration expert.
3. Dispose of Contaminated Items
Soaked fabrics, carpets, and other porous materials may harbor harmful bacteria and mold. Safely dispose of any items that cannot be fully cleaned, including pillows, mattresses, or upholstered furniture. For valuables or essential items that have gotten wet, consult a restoration service that specializes in water damage.
4. Use Mold-Prevention Cleaning Solutions
Mold growth is one of the biggest post-hurricane issues. Clean surfaces with an anti-mold solution, such as a bleach-and-water mixture, to kill existing spores and prevent further growth. Don’t forget to treat hard-to-reach places like wall corners, behind furniture, and under carpets. Maids in Purple recommends keeping your space as ventilated as possible during this process.
5. Focus on Deep Cleaning Hard Surfaces
Hard surfaces like tile, vinyl, and hardwood floors can often withstand some water but still need thorough disinfection. Use a disinfectant cleaner on floors, walls, and countertops to remove contaminants left by floodwaters. For floors, consider using a mop with replaceable heads to prevent spreading dirt or bacteria across rooms.
6. Disinfect Your Air Ducts and HVAC Systems
Flooding can send bacteria, dust, and mold into your home’s air systems. After a hurricane, it’s a good idea to have your HVAC system cleaned by a professional. A dirty air system can worsen air quality and lead to health issues, especially if mold begins to spread through air ducts.
7. Check for Moisture with a Dehumidifier
High humidity is typical after hurricanes in Florida, which encourages mold growth. Use a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels under control, especially in closed-off areas like basements and closets. Running fans and opening windows can also help, but only if outdoor air quality is safe.
8. Clean Windows and Doors Thoroughly
After a hurricane, dirt and salt can settle on window panes and door frames. Give these areas a detailed cleaning to avoid long-term damage from corrosive elements. Wipe down windows with a vinegar and water solution to remove dirt, salt, and any contaminants carried in by the storm.
9. Sanitize All Touchpoints
Germs and contaminants can spread easily after floods, so take extra time to sanitize commonly touched areas. Wipe down light switches, doorknobs, cabinet handles, and railings with a disinfectant to reduce potential health risks.
10. Contact Maids in Purple for a Professional Deep Clean
For a thorough post-hurricane cleaning, Maids in Purple offers specialized deep cleaning services across Sarasota, Venice, North Port, and surrounding communities. Our team of professionals uses the highest-quality cleaning tools and products to restore your home’s comfort and cleanliness after the storm. Contact us today for a personalized cleaning plan tailored to your needs.
While post-hurricane cleaning may seem like a daunting task, following these essential steps will help you get your home back in shape. The Maids in Purple team is here to make the process easier and more efficient, so you can focus on what matters most. Whether you need a full-home deep clean or just some extra help with hard-to-reach areas, we’re ready to support Sarasota and Charlotte counties in their recovery.