Health Tip: Getting Rid of Mold After a Flood

(HealthDay News) — If your home has been flooded, cleaning up mold may be one of your first challenges.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:

Create a solution of soap, water and 1 cup of bleach per 5 gallons of water. Protect yourself with rubber boots and waterproof gloves.
Use this disinfecting solution on walls, floors and other hard surfaces.
Take particular care to disinfect areas where food is stored or prepared, such as counters, the refrigerator and pantry. Also, be sure to thoroughly clean any area frequented by a child.
Clothing and linens should be washed and dried on the hot cycle.
Mattresses, couches, and upholstered furniture should be dried in the sun and thoroughly disinfected. Carpets should be steam cleaned. Throw away anything that cannot be properly cleaned.