What this covers
Smoke leaves a fine residue on walls, ceilings, trim, cabinets and contents, and it carries a smell that soaks into porous materials. Smoke damage cleanup removes that residue with dry and wet methods chosen for each surface, cleans or launders contents, filters the air while the work goes on, and treats the odor so it does not come back.
When to call
- A gray or yellow film on walls and ceilings after a kitchen fire, a furnace puff-back or a nearby fire.
- A smoke smell that lingers for days after airing out the home.
- Discoloration around light fixtures, vents and the tops of doors.
What to expect
- Test and planThe company tests surfaces to see what kind of residue it is and which cleaning method will lift it without smearing.
- CleanDry sponges, then cleaning solutions, are used on walls, ceilings, trim and cabinets. Ducts and fixtures are cleaned where the smoke reached them.
- ContentsHard items are cleaned on site or at the company's facility. Textiles go to specialty cleaning.
- DeodorizeThe smell is treated at its source rather than masked.
First, make it safe
Get a certified company
Tell us what happened and we will connect you with one certified restoration company for your ZIP code. Your details are shared only after you agree to that company by name.
Questions people ask
Can I wipe it down myself?
Wet wiping soot smears it into paint and makes it harder to remove. If you want to start, open windows and leave the surfaces alone until the company tests them.
Will the walls need repainting?
Sometimes. Residue that has set into paint for weeks may not clean fully, and some surfaces are sealed and repainted instead. The company tells you which rooms clean up and which need paint.
What about the ducts?
Smoke moves through the duct system. Duct cleaning is usually part of the job when the furnace or air handler was running.
Related: Fire damage restoration · Odor removal · Textile and clothing restoration · All restoration and emergency services
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.