Yes, in some cases, but not all. Porous materials that absorb water (e.g. drywall, carpeting, upholstered furniture and ceiling tiles) and were saturated by flood water probably need to be discarded. If you can't dry it quickly, throw it away.
The following items need to be thrown away when you can see or smell mold and/or the materials have been under water:
- Carpet, carpet padding and rugs
- Upholstered furniture, mattresses and box springs
- Computers, microwaves, window A/C units and other electronics/appliances that had fans and were housed in moldy rooms
- Papers and books
- Fiberboard, insulation and disposable filters in your heating/cooling system.
For other items or areas, follow these steps:
- In small areas, mold can be cleaned on hard surfaces, such as wood or concrete, by scrubbing the area with a cleaning rag or brush wetted with diluted detergent.
- Rubber gloves and a dust mask (look for one labeled N95 at the hardware store) can be used to minimize direct exposure to contaminants and cleaning products.
- Be careful when using household cleaners or disinfectant products. Read and follow all label directions and warning labels before mixing any products. Mixing some products can create hazardous fumes. For example, never mix products containing ammonia and bleach.
- Individuals with known mold allergies or asthma should not clean or remove mold, as their conditions may be aggravated.
- An experienced professional should be hired to clean up a large mold problem, or if you are highly sensitive to mold.