What Items Must Be Discarded After Sewage Damage?
Last updated October 26, 2026
The short answer
Porous Items to Throw Away
Anything soft and absorbent that came into contact with sewage should be discarded. This includes mattresses, box springs, pillows, upholstered sofas and chairs, curtains, and carpets with padding. The fibers trap bacteria and moisture, making them impossible to sanitize fully.
Also discard drywall, ceiling tiles, insulation, and particleboard that got wet. These building materials swell, lose strength, and harbor mold. Even if the surface looks dry, sewage can seep deep inside, so it is safer to remove and replace them.
- Mattresses and box springs
- Upholstered furniture and cushions
- Carpets, rugs, and padding
- Drywall and ceiling tiles
- Insulation and particleboard
- Clothing, bedding, and towels
Food and Kitchen Items to Discard
Any food that may have touched sewage, even if sealed in packaging, should be thrown away. This includes unopened cans, jars, and bottles, because sewage can seep through tiny seams or under lids. The same applies to food in the refrigerator or freezer if the unit was flooded.
Discard wooden cutting boards, wooden utensils, and plastic items that are scratched or porous. They can absorb bacteria. Also throw away baby bottles, pacifiers, and any dishes that have cracks. For safety, do not try to save these items, no matter how clean they look.
Items You Might Be Able to Save
Non-porous items made of glass, metal, or hard plastic can often be cleaned and disinfected. This includes dishes, silverware, pots, pans, and tools. Wash them with hot soapy water, then rinse with a bleach solution, and let them air dry.
Hard surfaces like tile, concrete, and sealed wood floors can be cleaned and kept. However, anything with cracks, chips, or unsealed surfaces may trap sewage and should be discarded. When in doubt, replace the item rather than risk contamination.
Documents and Personal Items
Paper items like books, important documents, and photographs that got wet with sewage should be discarded unless they hold critical value. In that case, you may be able to dry them, but they are often unsalvageable. Consider taking photos of important papers for records before throwing them away.
Personal items such as stuffed animals, cosmetics, and medicines that touched sewage should be thrown out. These items can become contaminated and unsafe to use. For sentimental items, check with a professional, but be prepared to let them go. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
How to Decide and Stay Safe
The rule of thumb is simple: if an item is porous and touched sewage, discard it. If it is non-porous and can be thoroughly cleaned, you might save it. But the risk of illness from sewage is high, so err on the side of caution.
Wear gloves, boots, and a mask when handling contaminated items. Put discarded items in heavy-duty trash bags and seal them. If you live in Virginia Beach, keep your shutoff valve location written down. For help, local water damage pros can guide you through the cleanup process.
- Wear gloves and a mask
- Seal trash bags tightly
- Do not mix sewage items with regular trash
- Take photos for insurance documentation
- Contact local water damage pros for guidance
Talk to someone now
Call (757) 665-2121 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (757) 665-2121Frequently asked questions
Can I save my couch after sewage backup?
No, upholstered furniture like sofas and chairs should be discarded. The fabric and foam absorb sewage, making it impossible to fully sanitize. Even professional cleaning may not remove all bacteria, so it is safer to throw it away.
What about sealed food containers?
Throw them away. Sewage can seep through tiny seams, under lids, or into the food itself. Even unopened cans may be contaminated. Do not risk eating food that might have touched sewage, regardless of packaging.
Should I discard clothes that got wet?
Yes, discard clothing, bedding, and towels that touched sewage. The fibers trap bacteria and cannot be cleaned reliably at home. If the items are valuable, a professional cleaner might help, but most are not worth the risk.
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