Can Water-Damaged Furniture Be Restored?

Your first move is to remove the furniture from the water. Wear gloves for protection, especially if the water source is unclear. Place the item on blocks or a dry surface to promote air circulation underneath. If you can move it safely, take it to a dry, well-ventilated area.

Begin drying the furniture immediately. Use towels to blot moisture from surfaces. Fans and dehumidifiers in the room help pull moisture from the air and the furniture itself. Do not use heat guns or hair dryers directly on wood, as intense heat can cause cracking and warping.

• Remove cushions and drawers to dry separately.
• Wipe down all hard surfaces with a clean, dry cloth.
• Prop doors open to allow air inside cabinets.
• Lift furniture onto aluminum foil tabs to prevent staining carpets.
• Document the damage with photos for an insurance claim.
• Separate any metal parts that could rust or stain the wood.

For solid wood, the process often involves careful drying, sanding, and refinishing. Warped pieces may need to be clamped and straightened as they dry. Mold on the surface must be cleaned with appropriate solutions, but deep mold within the wood may mean the piece cannot be saved.

Upholstered furniture requires extraction of water from padding, followed by thorough cleaning and drying of the frame and fabric. Often, the padding must be replaced. A furniture refinishing specialist can advise on whether reupholstering is a practical option compared to the cost of a new item.

• Solid Wood: Dry slowly, sand, and apply new finish.
• Laminated Surfaces: Dry and reglue any peeling veneer.
• Metal Parts: Clean and dry immediately to prevent rust.
• Upholstery Fabric: Professional cleaning or replacement.
• Internal Padding: Usually requires complete replacement.
• Drawer Glides and Hardware: Clean and lubricate after drying.