When dealing with a sewage backup, swift cleanup and disinfection are paramount to safeguard your health and prevent further damage to your property. Here are some effective methods for eliminating sewage smell after a backup: ### Cleanup and Disinfection - **Remove Solid Waste:** Using gloves and masks, carefully remove any solid waste from the affected area. - **Ventilate and Dry:** Open doors and windows to ventilate the space. Use fans or dehumidifiers to dry the area thoroughly. - **Disinfect Surfaces:** All surfaces exposed to sewage should be disinfected using a bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach per gallon of water). ### How to Get the Sewer Smell Out of Your House after Backup - **Baking Soda:** Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, furniture, and other porous surfaces. Leave it for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly. - **Vinegar:** Place bowls of white vinegar in the affected rooms. The acidity neutralizes odors and leaves a fresh scent. - **Activated Charcoal:** Place bowls of activated charcoal around the house. Its porous nature traps and absorbs odor molecules. - **Essential Oils:** Diffuse essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender to eliminate odors and promote a fresh atmosphere. - **Professional Sewage Cleanup Service:** For severe backups or persistent odors, consider contacting a professional sewage cleanup service. They have specialized equipment and expertise to effectively remove sewage odors and prevent future problems.