The short answer
Why You Should Not Do It Yourself
Cleaning up after a crime involves much more than wiping surfaces. Blood and other bodily fluids can soak into drywall, wood, carpet, and upholstery. Dried blood can still contain viruses and bacteria, and disturbing it can release harmful particles into the air you breathe.
Household cleaners are not designed to kill bloodborne pathogens. You would need hospital-grade disinfectants and specialized equipment to do the job properly. Without the right training, you risk your health and the health of anyone who enters your home afterward.
- Bloodborne pathogens can survive for days on surfaces
- Proper disposal of biohazard waste is regulated by law
- Hidden contamination can remain after visible stains are gone
- Odors from decomposition can linger and attract pests
- Your insurance policy may not cover improper cleanup attempts
What the Pros Usually Do
Professional biohazard cleanup involves a careful process. First, the pros assess the area to understand what materials are affected. Then they remove all contaminated items, including carpet, padding, drywall, and any porous surfaces that cannot be fully cleaned.
Next, they clean and disinfect every remaining surface using specialized products. They also use air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to remove airborne contaminants and control odors. Finally, they dispose of all waste according to local regulations, which you would not be able to do yourself.
The Risks of Doing It Yourself
The main risk is exposure to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. These viruses can live in dried blood for some time. If you cut yourself while handling contaminated materials, you could become infected. You also risk inhaling particles if you sweep or vacuum dry blood.
There are also legal risks. Improper disposal of biohazard waste can lead to fines. If you sell your home later, undisclosed contamination could become a legal issue. A professional cleanup helps protect you from these long-term problems.
What to Do Right Now
If you find yourself in this situation, do not touch anything. Leave the area immediately and keep others away, including pets. Open windows if it is safe to do so, but do not try to clean any visible stains. Your first action should be to call local water damage pros who handle biohazard cleanup.
While you wait, write down what you remember about the scene. This can help the pros understand what they will be dealing with. Also, contact your insurance company to ask about coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
When You Might Handle It Yourself
There is one situation where you might clean up yourself: if a medical professional has confirmed that no bodily fluids are present. For example, after a break-in where no one was hurt, you can clean up broken glass and minor messes with standard household products.
If you live in Redmond, keep the number for the pros handy, just in case. For any situation involving blood, vomit, or other body fluids, professional help is the only safe option. Your health is worth more than the cost of cleanup.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Redmond and nearby communities.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
What if I only need to clean a small blood stain?
Even a small blood stain can carry pathogens. If you must handle it, wear gloves, use a bleach solution, and dispose of materials carefully. But for safety, call the pros. They have the right equipment to ensure no contamination remains.
Will my insurance pay for the cleanup?
Coverage depends on your specific policy and the circumstances. Some policies cover biohazard cleanup, others do not. Contact your insurance company to ask about your situation. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
How long does professional cleanup take?
The time depends on the size of the area and how much contamination is present. A single room might take a few hours, while a larger scene could take a full day or more. The pros will assess the situation before giving you a timeline.