How to Clean Up a Water Spill

Spills happen. A pipe could break, the cat could tip over your water glass, or you could knock over a bucket of water on the living room floor. Do you know how to clean it up so you won't have to worry about long-term damage, mold, or mildew?

Here’s how to clean up water spills on the floor correctly and protect your home from future problems.

How to Clean up a Little Water | Roto-Rooter

Why It’s Important to Act Fast After a Water Spill

Even a small amount of spilled water can cause damage if you leave it sitting too long. Moisture that seeps into floors or baseboards can:

• Warp surfaces
• Leave permanent stains on hardwood or grout
• Create lingering odors
• Cause mold growth

If you act quickly and know what you’re doing, you can clean up a little water and dry out the affected area before it causes permanent damage to your home.

What You’ll Need to Clean Up a Water Spill

If you have a sizable but limited water spill on the floor, here’s what you’ll need to clean up the mess:

• Towels or rags — lots of them
• Wet/dry vacuum
• Mop or sponge
• Box fan(s)
• Dehumidifier

How to Clean Up Water on the Floor

Step 1: Stop the Source of the Water

If the water is still flowing, shut off the source. For example, you may have to unplug a leaky appliance or turn off the faucet to an overflowing sink. 

Not sure where the water is coming from? Check washing machines, dishwashers, or nearby plumbing.

If all else fails, turn off your main water supply valve to stop water from flowing.

Step 2: Soak Up the Standing Water and Dry the Floor

Wondering how to soak up water from the floor? Start by removing as much standing water as possible:

• Use towels or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up puddles.
• Work from the outside of the spill inward to avoid spreading it further.
• Use a mop or sponge to wring out excess moisture.

Step 3: Dry the Air

To fully dry the area and prevent mold or moisture damage:

• Set up fans to circulate air around the spill zone. Run them for several hours or even overnight, depending on how much water was spilled.
• Use a dehumidifier in enclosed spaces like basements or laundry rooms.
• Open windows if the weather permits.

Step 4: Disinfect the Surface (If Needed)

If the spilled water on the floor came from a source like a washing machine, toilet, or kitchen sink, you need to take a few extra disinfection steps:

• Use a household cleaner or diluted bleach solution.
• Wipe down the entire spill area, especially if pets or kids walk through it.
• Let the surface air dry fully.

Taking these steps prevents harmful bacteria from making you and your family sick.

What If the Water Spill Came from a Leak?

There’s a difference between a simple spilled water incident and a leak. Cleaning up water from a spill is something you can manage on your own with a few towels. But when a broken pipe has caused standing water in a basement, for example, you’ll often need to call in the professionals. There’s a much greater potential for structural damage with a leak compared to a spill.

Signs you may require professional water leak cleanup include:

• Water continues to appear after the cleanup
• Stains or bubbling paint on walls or ceilings
• Musty odors or visible mold

How to Get Rid of Water in Hard-to-Reach Areas

Cleaning up water in cracks, corners, and under appliances can be tricky. Here’s how to get rid of water where a towel won’t reach:

• Use absorbent pads or paper towels attached to a Swiffer Sweeper to wick moisture from corners.
• Slide a thin cloth or sponge under the appliance to soak up water, replacing it after it fills up with moisture.
• Try a wet/dry vacuum with a narrow nozzle in tight spaces.
• Sprinkle moisture absorbers like silica gel or baking soda to draw out lingering dampness.

When to Call a Professional for Water Spill or Water Damage Cleanup

There are definite times when you should seek professional assistance for water damage. These situations include:

• The water was sitting for over 24 hours
• Water has seeped into walls, floors, or baseboards
• You notice musty smells, mold spots, or soft flooring
• The water spill has come from your sewer line

Professionals are experts at cleaning up water damage, including structural drying and mold prevention. They’ll help you put your water spill woes behind you.

Clean It Up: Don’t Let a Spill Become a Soak

Cleaning up water right away is your best defense against water damage. Start by stopping the source, soaking up moisture, drying the air, and disinfecting if needed. Even if it’s just a little spilled water, acting fast can save your flooring, walls, and appliances.

To avoid future headaches, stay on top of plumbing maintenance and leaks. If you’re facing a larger cleanup or suspect hidden damage, call the pros at Roto-Rooter for expert help. Schedule your appointment today!