ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES
ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES |
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contact Donna Reynolds, Extension Assistant Editor
AUBURN, MARCH 20---Many people in Alabama and Georgia are returning to their homes and businesses now that floodwaters have gone down. For many, the cleanup task will be a hard one, especially those who have lost everything.
Carol Centrallo, Extension apparel and textile management specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, says most flood-damaged clothing may be saved if given prompt attention.
Water may be contaminated with sewage waste so it's important that flood-soiled clothes be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to kill harmful bacteria, says Centrallo. If possible, don't permit floodwater and mud to dry in shoes or garments. Clean them as quickly as possible.
Check care labels in all clothing before cleaning. If garments are labeled hand-washable only, don't put in a washing machine. If garment is dry, brush off loose dirt and rinse in clean, cool water to remove mud and flood water. This process will take several rinsings -- until rinse water is clear.
Work a heavy duty detergent (liquid) or paste of granule detergent into all heavily stained areas and let stand 15-30 minutes. Follow care labels and wash in the hottest water safe for garments with detergent.
Clothes submerged in floodwaters should be sanitized using a disinfectant. Always test on an inconspicuous seam to be sure it doesn't harm the garment, such as a color change.
Centrallo suggests adding one of the following to a washing machine before adding clothing.
For dry-cleanable clothing, Centrallo says to take them to the dry cleaner as soon as possible. Be sure to shake and brush items well to remove as much dirt as possible. Give the dry cleaner as much information as possible about what caused the damage and fiber content of fabric, if known.
If dry cleaning service isn't available and garments are still damp with muddy water, rinse them in cold water to remove water-soluble, clay-type soil. Rinse garments as quickly as possible to avoid bleeding of dyes and to keep shrinkage to a minimum.
Gently squeeze out excess water and shake out wrinkles. Rolling items in dry towels will help remove excess water. Place garments on hangers and dry in cool air or smooth them out on a flat surface to dry.
For slightly damp garments, try to rinse out the wet portion without dipping the entire garment in cold water. If this cannot be done without leaving a strong stain line, it is best to dip the entire garment. Shake out wrinkles and dry in cool air.
Leather and suede accessories, such as shoes, belts and handbags, should be allowed to dry away from direct heat. Then, brush off as much mud as possible. Use mild soap suds and cool water to remove remaining dirt.
Rinse items with clean water and wipe gently with a clean cloth until all dirt is removed. Don't get the leather or suede too wet while cleaning.
Stuff shoes, handbags and sleeves with paper to maintain their shape. Dry them away from sun and heat. Clean with saddle soap or use an oil for leather or suede to soften and prevent stiffening. This oil may darken the leather, so check before using. Use a suede brush to restore its original appearance. Be sure to brush in only one direction.