Water damage is one of the most frustrating things a homeowner can deal with. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, a leaking water heater, or a flooded basement after a storm, your first instinct might be to grab some towels, start drying things out, and handle it on your own. And in some cases, that’s totally fine.
But not all water damage is created equal. Knowing when it’s okay to tackle cleanup yourself—and when to call in professionals—is key to protecting your home and your health.
If you’re dealing with Idaho Falls water damage, here's what you can and can’t safely do on your own.
There are a few water damage situations that most homeowners can handle themselves, especially if they catch the problem early and act quickly.
A spilled mop bucket or a leaky sink cabinet? No problem. These are usually isolated incidents, and as long as the water hasn’t soaked into subfloors or walls, you can dry them out with towels, fans, and maybe a dehumidifier.
If your dishwasher or washing machine has a minor overflow and you catch it quickly, you can usually mop it up, run fans, and monitor the area for signs of mold or lingering moisture. Just be sure to check underneath and behind appliances to make sure water didn’t sneak into hidden spaces.
The industry classifies water damage into three categories. Category 1 is clean water—from a broken pipe, for example. If you know the water is clean and you act fast, it’s typically safe to handle.
In these cases:
Soak up water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum
Remove any wet rugs or furniture
Use fans and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the space
Open windows to encourage airflow
Always monitor the area for a few days to make sure no musty smells or signs of mold develop.
Now for the more serious stuff. If you’re dealing with any of the following situations, it’s best to call a professional, especially a company experienced in Idaho Falls water damage cleanup.
If your basement is flooded or there’s standing water across multiple rooms, it’s no longer a DIY project. The risk of structural damage, mold growth, and hidden moisture is too high. Professionals have the equipment and expertise to remove water quickly and safely.
Water damage isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality. If the water is dirty, it comes from a drain, toilet, or outside source, it can contain bacteria, chemicals, or sewage. This is considered Category 2 (gray water) or Category 3 (black water) and should never be handled without proper safety gear and training.
If a leak has gone unnoticed for days or weeks, the damage may go far beyond what you can see. Water can seep into drywall, insulation, floorboards, and even the foundation. In these cases, mold is often already forming, and removing it requires specialized treatment.
If you notice visible mold—especially on porous surfaces like drywall or carpet—don’t attempt to clean it yourself with bleach or household cleaners. Mold spores can become airborne and affect your indoor air quality, especially if disturbed improperly. Professionals know how to contain and remove mold safely.
If water has reached electrical outlets, wiring, or appliances, leave the area immediately and call an expert. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, and even a small mistake can result in serious injury or fire risk.
While DIY water damage cleanup can be effective for small incidents, large or contaminated situations are best left to trained technicians. Professionals who specialize in Idaho Falls water damage know how to:
Fully extract water from all types of surfaces
Detect moisture behind walls and under floors
Prevent mold and bacteria growth
Work with your insurance provider to streamline claims
They also have the tools—like industrial fans, moisture meters, and air scrubbers—that can make a huge difference in the restoration process.
Taking quick action after water damage is always smart, but it’s equally important to know your limits. Some jobs are perfectly manageable with a few tools and a little elbow grease. Others, especially those involving large volumes of water, contaminated sources, or hidden damage, are best handled by professionals.
If you’re ever unsure, don’t risk it. Trust a local expert who understands the unique challenges of Idaho Falls water damage cleanup and can help you protect your home for the long haul.
