What Items Must Be Thrown Out After a Sewage Backup?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Porous Items That Cannot Be Saved
Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that soak into porous materials. Carpet and padding, drywall, wood trim, and ceiling tiles absorb the water and can't be fully cleaned. Once wet with sewage, these items become a health hazard, so they go in the trash.
Upholstered furniture, mattresses, pillows, and cushions are also unsalvageable. The fabric and foam trap contamination deep inside, and even professional cleaning won't remove all the risk. In a warm climate, drying might seem possible, but the hidden moisture can breed mold quickly.
- Carpet and padding
- Drywall and wallboard
- Mattresses and box springs
- Upholstered sofas and chairs
- Pillows and cushions
- Cardboard boxes and paper
Food and Kitchen Items to Discard
Any food that came into contact with sewage must be thrown out, including items in sealed containers. The seal isn't enough to stop contamination. This covers canned goods, bottled drinks, and food in plastic wrap. Even if the package looks intact, bacteria can work its way in.
Wooden cutting boards, plastic utensils, and dishes with cracks or chips should go too. These surfaces can harbor bacteria in grooves. Metal pans and glass jars can be washed and disinfected, but only if they were not directly submerged in sewage water.
Clothing and Fabrics: What to Keep
Clothing and linens that were touched by sewage often need to be thrown out, especially if they are delicate or absorbent. Heavy fabrics like denim or towels might be salvageable if they can be washed in hot water with bleach. But any fabric that can't withstand hot washing should be discarded.
Leather shoes, suede, and fur items are usually beyond saving. The material absorbs sewage and can't be disinfected without damage. If you have sentimental clothing, talk to the pros about cleaning options, but be prepared to let go of most items for safety.
Electronics and Personal Items
Electronics that got wet with sewage, like TVs, computers, and phones, are typically thrown out. The water damages internal components, and cleaning them isn't safe. Even if they dry, they may harbor bacteria in crevices. Don't risk using them.
Personal items like toothbrushes, makeup, and combs must be discarded. These come into close contact with your body and can't be fully sanitized. Books, photos, and documents that were soaked are also lost, though you might be able to salvage photos by rinsing them gently, but that's rare.
When to Call the Pros for Sorting
Sorting through sewage damage is overwhelming, and it's easy to keep items that should go. The pros can help you identify what's salvageable and what's not. They have experience with sewage contamination and know the limits of cleaning. They can also handle the removal and disposal safely.
If you live in Mesa, keep in mind that sewage cleanup involves more than just throwing things out. The pros will also clean and sanitize the affected surfaces, including floors and walls. Their work usually involves removing damaged materials and disinfecting the area to reduce health risks.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Call the pros if you're unsure about an item
- Don't enter the area without protective gear
- Keep children and pets away from the affected zone
- Document items you throw out with photos for your records
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
Can I save items that were only slightly splashed by sewage?
If an item was only slightly splashed, you might be able to clean it with a disinfectant if it's non-porous. But porous items like cloth or wood should be thrown out, even with minor contact. When in doubt, discard it, because sewage contamination is a serious health risk.
Should I throw out food in the refrigerator if the sewage didn't touch it?
If sewage didn't touch the refrigerator or its contents, the food inside may be safe. But if sewage water was anywhere near the fridge, or if the fridge lost power, throw out perishable items. Sealed containers that weren't submerged are usually fine, but check for any signs of contamination.
How do I know if a hard surface item is safe to keep?
Hard, non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, and hard plastic can be cleaned and disinfected if they were not submerged in sewage. Wash them with soap and water, then apply a bleach solution. If they have cracks, pits, or crevices, throw them out, as bacteria can hide there.