How Do You Save Pictures After a Flood?

If your pictures are submerged, the clock is ticking. The longer they stay wet, the more likely the emulsion will soften and stick to glass or other photos. Carefully lift them out of the water, supporting them from underneath to avoid tearing. Rinse off any mud or debris with a gentle stream of clean, cool water.

Lay the rinsed photos flat on a clean, smooth surface like a table or a piece of glass. Avoid stacking them until they are dry. If you have many photos, work in small batches. For prints that are stuck together, do not force them apart while wet. Let them dry slightly, then try to separate them from the edges.

• Wear gloves to protect your hands and the photos.
• Use a plastic tub or sink for rinsing, not a high-pressure hose.
• Place a clean towel underneath to absorb excess water.
• Work in a well-ventilated area to speed up drying.
• Keep photos out of direct sunlight, which can fade them.

Air drying is the most common method, but it needs patience. Place photos flat on a clean, absorbent surface like a paper towel or a cotton cloth. Change the absorbent layer every few hours to draw out moisture. For photos with a glossy finish, dry them face up to avoid sticking.

For a faster approach, use a fan on low speed in the room, but do not point it directly at the photos. Avoid using heat, which can cause curling or melting. If you have a dehumidifier, run it in the room to lower humidity. Check the photos periodically for signs of mold, and separate any that start to stick.

• Use a hair dryer only on the coolest setting and keep it moving.
• Place a sheet of wax paper between photos that are drying together.
• Do not wring out photos; blot them gently.
• Dry negatives in a separate, clean area.
• If mold appears, isolate the photo and seek professional advice.

Some water damage is beyond what you can handle at home. If your photos are heavily contaminated with sewage or chemicals, or if they are part of a large collection, the pros can help. They have specialized drying equipment and clean rooms to salvage items without further damage.

Also, if your home suffered significant flooding, address the structural issues first. Wet drywall and flooring can harbor mold. The pros can handle the cleanup and drying of your home while you focus on your photos. Check your policy, as some coverage may include personal property restoration. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

• Sort photos by priority: heirlooms first.
• Keep a list of what you have in case of claims.
• Store dry photos in a waterproof container.
• Consider digitizing all photos after the flood.
• Ask the pros about specialized photo drying services.