What Furniture Can Be Saved After a Flood?

Solid wood furniture, such as oak, maple, or teak, has a good chance of recovery. If the wood has not warped or split, you can dry it slowly, clean it with a mild soap, and refinish the surface. Metal furniture, including wrought iron or aluminum, often survives if you remove rust and dry it completely.

Plastic and resin pieces, like outdoor chairs or storage bins, are also good candidates. They do not absorb water, so a thorough wash with soap and water usually restores them. Even some sealed veneers can be saved if the water did not seep into the core.

• Solid wood tables and chairs
• Metal bed frames and desks
• Plastic outdoor furniture
• Sealed wood with minimal water damage
• Glass tables and shelves
• Lacquered or varnished pieces

Act quickly after a flood, because mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours. Move salvageable furniture to a dry, well-ventilated area, but avoid direct sunlight, which can warp wood. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying, but do not use heat sources like hair dryers, as they can crack the wood.

Clean each piece with a mild detergent and water, then rinse with clean water. For wood, a mixture of one part bleach to ten parts water can kill mold spores, but test it on a hidden spot first. After cleaning, let the piece dry fully for several days before refinishing or using it again.

In a hot semi-arid climate, floods are less common, but they can happen from burst pipes or heavy rains. To protect your furniture, keep valuable items off the floor, especially in ground-level rooms. Use plastic or metal risers to elevate pieces, and store important documents in waterproof containers.

Regularly inspect your plumbing and roof for leaks, and fix any issues quickly. Keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can stop a leak fast. Simple steps like these can reduce the risk of water damage and help you save more of your belongings.