Why Smoke Damage Needs Immediate Attention
Smoke residue, also known as soot, is made up of tiny carbon particles mixed with oils, acids, and other harmful chemicals. When left untreated, it can:- Permanently stain walls, ceilings, and other surfaces
- Create lingering odors that are tough to eliminate
- Break down wall finishes and paint over time
- Harm indoor air quality and irritate lungs
- Cause respiratory issues, especially for kids, elderly, and pets
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Smoke Damage on Walls and Ceilings
Here’s a complete process to tackle the mess:Step 1: Safety First
Before you start:- Wear protective gear: Gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid inhaling soot or coming into contact with chemicals.
- Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to promote airflow.
- Turn off HVAC systems: Prevent spreading soot particles through your ductwork.
Step 2: Dry Cleaning Sponge First
Use a dry cleaning sponge (also called a chemical sponge) — specially made for smoke damage:- Start at the top of the wall or ceiling and work downward.
- Wipe gently without scrubbing. Scrubbing can push soot deeper into surfaces.
- Rotate the sponge to a clean side as it becomes dirty.
Step 3: Mix Cleaning Solution
After using the dry sponge:- Mix one gallon of warm water, one tablespoon of dish soap, and half a cup of white vinegar.
- Use a clean cloth or sponge to gently wipe walls and ceilings.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
- Rinse the cleaned areas with clean water and a fresh cloth.
- Dry the surface thoroughly with towels or allow fresh air to speed up drying.
Step 5: Deal with Lingering Odors
Even after cleaning, smoky odors can linger. Here’s what helps:- Baking Soda: Leave open boxes around the room to absorb odors.
- Activated Charcoal: Works as a powerful natural deodorizer.
- Professional Ozone Treatments: Breaks down smoke molecules — something Pro Steamer specializes in for deep odor removal.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Dry cleaning (chemical) sponge
- Mild dish soap
- White vinegar
- Buckets
- Protective gloves, mask, and goggles
- Soft sponges and microfiber cloths
- Fresh towels
- Fan or dehumidifier for drying
When to Call Professional Smoke Damage Cleaners
While small-scale smoke damage can sometimes be cleaned with DIY methods, there are times when you absolutely need professional help:- Heavy or widespread soot: Especially on textured ceilings or drywall.
- Persistent smoke odor: That doesn’t go away after basic cleaning.
- Structural damage: From fire or smoke weakening materials.
- Health concerns: If anyone in the home has asthma, allergies, or respiratory issues.
Why Choose Pro Steamer for Smoke Damage Cleaning?
- Experienced team: We know exactly how to handle smoke-damaged materials without causing further harm.
- Advanced technology: From specialized sponges to ozone odor treatments.
- Fast response: We’re local to Roswell, NM, and ready when you need us most.
- Affordable pricing: Transparent quotes with no hidden fees.
- Comprehensive care: We handle walls, ceilings, carpets, upholstery, and more.
