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How To Clean Smoke Stains
3/28/2022 (Permalink)
No job is too big for SERVPRO
Smoke stains can be caused by several different mishaps around the home. A fireplace, candle, BBQ, heater, or even a small fire can create an ugly smoke stain. The worst being nicotine stains from cigarette smoke. Most people don't realize that smoke stains are oil based, and require a lot more than just a good scrubbing to clean up.
Smoke particles themselves are called soot, and that is the grey or black stains that can be powdery or oily that also coat the surfaces of a home exposed to a fire or smoke. They don't just look bad, but they're really bad for your health too. They can get into your lungs and bloodstream and make people really sick. That's why is so important to make sure that all smoke stains are cleaned properly.
Many of the cleaners that are designed for smoke and soot are extremely harsh on your lungs and skin, so always make sure that if you're going to try and do it yourself that you wear the proper safety equipment like gloves and a mask. Not all cleaners are created equal, and you have to make sure to remove the oil based smoke from the walls, or the stains will continue to reappear, even after you paint over them.Directions for Removing Smoke Stains from Walls
- Remove the soot. Do this with a HEPA vacuum and don't scrub.
- Spray it with water to prevent it from going airborne.
- Apply Cleaner. Spray cleaner on all affected areas on brick, stone, metal or plastic. For painted surfaces, used a sponge.
- Scrub. Agitate the stained area with your brush or scrubbing pad.
- Rinse with water. Spray clean, warm water onto the cleaned area or wipe down with a damp towel.
- Dry. Allow to air dry, or wipe with dry towel.
Heavy soils may require repeated application.
If that process seems overwhelming, SERVPRO of Blackfoot/Pocatello are leading experts on smoke and soot removal, and we have the products to get the job done right, and quickly. Give us a call today and we can be there in an hour.