Can a flooded mattress still be reused?

Mattresses are one of the usual home furnishings that gets completely destroyed during a flooding situation. (Photo Credits)

Flooded mattresses are usually very difficult to clean and save, in fact there are even mattress professionals that specialize in restoring damaged mattresses due to flood contamination.

But how can a property owner tell whether his mattress is still worth saving or not?

Bed Perfect.com came up with some tips.

“Most spillages are usually minimal in nature but in the event of a flood, you might be forced to consider whether the mattress can be salvaged or disposed of altogether. Flood water contains all kinds of contaminants, from raw sewage to fuel. As such, if a mattress has been completely soaked in this water for some time it would most likely have deep stains and if it is made from foam, discarding it would be the best option.”

Assessing the mattress damage

Ghostbed.com also came up with a guide on how to find out whether a flood-contaminated mattress should be discarded or not. More info here

“If it has been submersed in water for some time, then the damage could be severe enough that you will want to consider getting a professional to restore your mattress. A completely soaked mattress presents a very difficult job for you to totally remove water and moisture. The water damaged mattress that is not properly cleaned can be a dangerous breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria. Flood waters often contain toxins and sewage. This is absorbed into the mattress and other upholstered furnishings that have been affected.”

The original article can be found here.

The Alabama Cooperative Extensions System meanwhile explained what it means when a mattress gets soiled with flood water, and how property owners should deal with it.

“If a mattress must be used temporarily, scrape off surface dirt and expose mattress to sunlight to dry as much as possible. Cover mattress with a rubber or plastic sheet or mattress cover before using it. If you decide to keep a flood-soiled mattress, it should be sterilized. This must be done at a sterilizing plant such as a mattress company or a state hospital. Ask your local public health department or county Extension agent for information on mattress sterilizing plants in your area. Have mattresses as dry as possible before taking them to a sterilizing plant. Use crop drying fans or household fans to speed up the drying process.”

Take a look at the material here.

Depending on the extent of damage, some mattresses can be beyond repair or salvaging.