### Specific Scenarios: How Long Can Furniture Sit in Water Before Being Ruined? When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence. The longer water sits on furniture, the more damage it will cause. **How long can furniture sit in water before being ruined?** The answer to this question varies depending on several factors, including: - **Type of furniture:** Solid wood furniture is more resistant to water damage than upholstered furniture or furniture made with particleboard. - **Amount of water:** A small amount of water may not cause any damage, while a large amount of water can quickly ruin furniture. - **Temperature:** Water damage is worse in warm temperatures than in cold temperatures. - **Duration of exposure:** The longer water sits on furniture, the more damage it will cause. **Generally, furniture can sit in water for:** - **Up to 24 hours:** Solid wood furniture may not sustain any damage if it is dried out quickly. - **Up to 48 hours:** Upholstered furniture may start to show signs of damage, such as mold or mildew. - **More than 48 hours:** Furniture is likely to be ruined and may need to be replaced. **If your furniture has been exposed to water, take the following steps to minimize damage:** - **Remove excess water:** Blot up as much water as possible using a towel or sponge. - **Ventilate the area:** Open windows and doors to allow the area to air out. - **Dry the furniture:** Move the furniture to a dry, well-ventilated area. - **Contact a professional:** If the furniture is severely damaged, contact a water damage cleanup professional. **Water Damage Cleanup Services** If your property has been damaged by water, it is important to contact a professional water damage cleanup company. Water damage cleanup companies can quickly and efficiently remove water from your property and prevent further damage. **Professional water damage cleanup services include:** - **Water extraction:** Removing water from your property using pumps and vacuums. - **Drying:** Drying out your property using fans and dehumidifiers. - **Mold remediation:** Removing mold and mildew from your property. - **Reconstruction:** Repairing or replacing damaged property.