The short answer
Safety First
Sewage contains bacteria and viruses that can make you sick, so protect yourself before touching anything. Wear rubber gloves, waterproof boots, and a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Open windows and doors to let fresh air in, and keep children and pets away from the area.
If the spill is large or you feel unwell, see a doctor. Avoid eating or drinking near the spill. Turn off the electricity in the affected area if water is near outlets or appliances. If you live in Rowlett, know where your main shutoff valve is in case you need to stop water flow.
Remove Water and Debris
Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up standing sewage water. Do not use a regular household vacuum, as it is not made for liquids. Remove solid waste with a shovel or heavy-duty bags, and dispose of it in a sealed plastic bag.
Take out any porous materials that soaked up sewage, such as carpet, padding, drywall, or insulation. These cannot be cleaned properly and should be thrown away. If you are unsure what to keep, it is safer to discard items that have absorbed sewage.
- Wear protective gear before starting
- Ventilate the area with fans and open windows
- Use a wet/dry vacuum for standing water
- Remove and bag all solid waste
- Discard soaked carpet, drywall, and insulation
- Keep the area off-limits until cleaned
Clean and Disinfect
After removing debris, wash hard surfaces like floors, walls, and counters with soap and water. Then apply a disinfectant that kills bacteria and viruses, following the product instructions. Let the disinfectant sit for the time listed on the label to work properly.
Pay extra attention to cracks and crevices where sewage can hide. Use a brush or mop to scrub surfaces thoroughly. Rinse with clean water and allow the area to dry completely before using the room again.
Dry the Area
Moisture left behind can lead to mold growth, so drying is a key step. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to speed up the process. If the space is enclosed, a dehumidifier can pull moisture from the air and help dry walls and floors.
Check hidden spots like behind baseboards and under cabinets. If you notice a musty smell or see any damp spots, continue drying. For a large spill, the pros often use industrial drying equipment to reach areas you cannot easily access.
When to Call the Pros
A small spill you can handle yourself, but a large one or one that soaked into walls or floors may need professional help. The pros have heavy-duty equipment and protective gear to handle sewage safely. They can also clean items like upholstery that are hard to sanitize at home.
If the spill affects a large part of your home or you are unsure how to clean it, contact local water damage pros. They can assess the situation and recommend the right steps. Check your policy to see if your insurance covers sewage cleanup. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
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Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can I clean a sewage spill myself?
For a small spill, you can clean it yourself with protective gear and disinfectant. For a large spill or one that soaked into walls or floors, it is safer to call the pros. Sewage can spread bacteria, so take precautions.
What should I throw away after a sewage spill?
Throw away porous items that absorbed sewage, such as carpet, padding, drywall, insulation, and upholstered furniture. These cannot be effectively sanitized. Hard surfaces like tile or concrete can be cleaned and reused.
How long does it take to dry after cleaning?
Drying time depends on the material and humidity. With fans and dehumidifiers, it can take a few days. In humid conditions, like during spring thunderstorms, it may take longer. Keep air moving until everything is completely dry.