Without treatment, pet dander can linger in the air for months—even if the pet is no longer in the home. These microscopic allergens often stick to furniture, bedding, and carpeting, causing long-term allergic reactions. Additionally, pet dander can enter a house on a person’s clothing or shoes—so, even if you don’t have pets at home, you could still have pet dander.

Separate your junk pile into three categories: trash, recycling, and donations. Many cities offer bulk trash and recycling pickup for free or a small fee. Specialty items, such as those with refrigerant, will also require a special appointment. You can also speak with a junk removal service to create a plan for getting rid of junk over the course of a large project.

While a biohazard cleanup sounds like a scary process, knowing what to expect can help ease your concerns and set you up for success. It’s good to note that more than one professional might be needed depending on your situation, but that will be determined during the assessment. What you can expect during a home biohazard cleanup is the following:

• Assessment: The first step in this process is for a biohazard cleanup professional to assess the damage. They create a report that includes the biohazard safety level, the needed damage cleanup, and the time it should take to complete the project. 

• Setup: The cleanup professional prepares the site to prevent cross-contamination and reduce toxicity risk. This process can include tarping and creating decontamination zones. 

• Removal of surface contamination: Any contaminated materials are removed from the area, starting with large materials followed by small ones. The professional can assess any floor-related damage once everything is removed from the site. 

• Salvaging items: The biohazard cleanup professionals assess which items can be saved and which are contaminated beyond the point of saving. Those deemed unsafe will be disposed of immediately. 

• Waste disposal: The next step is carefully disposing of the hazardous waste. Your professional will place the contaminated items in specific containers to keep the contamination from spreading.   

• Disinfection: The house will be disinfected and odor-neutralized. Even more minor details, like light switches and bulbs, will be disinfected so that they do not recontaminate the area in the future. 

• Restoration: Once the decontamination is complete, the last step is to restore the home. This includes repairing the damage to flooring, walls, or even the home's foundation.  

If you don’t want to use dishwasher pods, you can use liquid or powder dishwasher detergent or dishwasher tablets. Alternatively, you can make a DIY dish detergent by putting two or three drops of liquid dishwashing soap in the dispenser and filling the rest with baking soda. You should never use laundry detergent, household all-purpose cleaners, or a full dispenser of liquid dish detergent.