The short answer
Why Sewage Is Different
Sewage is not ordinary water. It carries pathogens from human waste, including E. Coli, hepatitis, and other harmful microbes. When you vacuum it up, the suction and exhaust can aerosolize these pathogens, meaning you could breathe them in or spread them around your home.
The wet vacuum itself becomes contaminated. Even after you empty it, the inside of the machine, the hose, and the filters can harbor dangerous germs. Using that same vacuum later for a minor spill could bring sewage residue into your living space.
Risks to Your Health
Direct contact with sewage can cause skin infections, gastrointestinal illness, and respiratory problems. If you are not wearing proper protective gear, such as rubber boots, gloves, and a respirator, you are putting yourself at risk. Children and pets are especially vulnerable.
Even if you feel fine after the cleanup, you could unknowingly bring germs into your home on your shoes or clothing. It is wise to see a doctor if you feel unwell after any exposure to sewage.
What the Pros Use
Professional sewage cleanup requires specialized equipment designed for biohazards. The pros use industrial-grade vacuums with HEPA filtration and separate containment systems to prevent aerosolization. They also wear full protective suits and respirators.
They follow strict sanitation protocols, including disinfecting the area and properly disposing of contaminated materials. This is not a do-it-yourself job. Local water damage pros have the training and tools to handle sewage safely, and they know how to prevent cross-contamination.
- HEPA-filtered vacuums that trap microscopic particles
- Disposable protective clothing and respirators
- Hospital-grade disinfectants for surfaces
- Proper waste disposal procedures
- Containment barriers to stop the spread
Immediate Steps to Take
If you have sewage in your home, act quickly to limit exposure. Keep everyone, especially children and pets, away from the affected area. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with a regular wet vacuum or household cleaners.
Turn off any HVAC systems that might circulate air from the contaminated space. If the sewage is from a backup, shut off the water supply if possible. In Redmond, knowing where your main shutoff valve is can be useful in an emergency.
Protecting Your Home
After a sewage backup, porous materials like drywall, insulation, and flooring often need to be removed. Sewage soaks into these materials, making them impossible to fully disinfect. The pros can assess the extent of the damage and remove affected materials safely.
They also use structural drying and dehumidification to dry out the area after cleanup, which helps prevent mold growth. This is a thorough process that requires professional equipment and expertise.
If you have insurance, check your policy to see what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Document the damage with photos and keep receipts for any expenses.
- Remove and discard porous materials
- Disinfect all hard surfaces
- Dry the area thoroughly
- Monitor for mold growth
- Keep records for insurance
Need help right now?
Call (425) 407-5186 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Can I clean sewage with bleach?
Bleach alone is not enough to make sewage safe. It can kill some bacteria, but it does not remove all pathogens or organic matter. Professional sanitation involves multiple steps, including cleaning, disinfecting, and proper disposal of contaminated materials.
What should I do if I already used a wet vacuum on sewage?
Stop using the vacuum immediately. Disconnect it and place it outside in a sealed plastic bag. Do not attempt to clean it indoors. Wash your hands and any exposed skin thoroughly. You may need to dispose of the vacuum, as it is likely too contaminated to clean safely.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
The time depends on the extent of the backup and the materials affected. A small area might be handled in a day, but larger or more severe cases can take several days. The pros will assess the situation and give you a realistic timeline based on your specific circumstances.