I actually caved and bought a wet/dry vac after my first backup in this house—couldn’t believe how much easier it made cleanup compared to the old towel-and-bucket scramble. The towels just never seemed to get everything, and then you’re stuck with a pile of gross laundry. I do keep a plunger and snake handy too, but honestly, the vac is my MVP for small overflows. Not sure why more folks don’t mention it... maybe it feels like overkill, but it’s saved me a ton of hassle.
I get where you’re coming from with the wet/dry vac. I hesitated for a while, thinking it was a bit much for just the occasional backup, but after one particularly nasty overflow in the basement, I realized towels just weren’t cutting it. The amount of water (and worse) that can seep into cracks or under baseboards is no joke. I ended up with a lingering musty smell for weeks because I didn’t get everything up fast enough.
That said, I’m always a little wary about using electrical equipment around standing water. I make sure to use a vac with a grounded plug and only plug it into a GFCI outlet—just in case. Safety first, right? I also keep a stash of heavy-duty rubber gloves and a couple of N95 masks on hand. Not the most glamorous kit, but I’d rather not breathe in whatever’s lurking in sewer water.
One thing I do differently is I try to use reusable microfiber cloths instead of regular towels. They absorb more and are easier to sanitize afterward. I toss them in a bucket with hot water and vinegar before washing, which seems to help with the smell and any bacteria.
I’ve also started keeping a bottle of enzyme-based cleaner around. It’s supposed to break down organic matter and is a bit more eco-friendly than bleach. Not sure if it’s as effective for every situation, but it gives me some peace of mind that I’m not dumping harsh chemicals down the drain after a cleanup.
Honestly, I wish I’d been more prepared before my first backup. It’s one of those things you don’t really think about until it happens, and then you’re scrambling. The vac is definitely a game-changer, but I’d say a little extra caution and some protective gear go a long way too.
