How to Clean up After a Washing Machine Flood?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Stop the Water First
Your first move is to shut off the washing machine's water supply. Look for the shutoff valves behind the machine, usually two knobs for hot and cold. Turn them clockwise until they stop. If you cannot find them, turn off the main water valve for your home.
Also unplug the machine or switch off the circuit breaker if water is near any electrical outlet. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If you feel any tingling or see sparks, leave the area and call an electrician. Safety comes before cleanup.
Remove Standing Water
Use towels, a mop, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up as much water as you can. Work from the edges toward the center to avoid spreading the water. Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate. Set up fans to blow air across the wet surfaces.
If the flood is large, a wet/dry vacuum with a hose can speed things up. Do not use a regular vacuum, as it can electrocute you or get ruined. The goal is to get the area as dry as possible within the first 24 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Turn off water supply and power
- Use towels or wet/dry vacuum
- Open windows and set up fans
- Move wet items to a dry area
- Wear rubber boots and gloves
- Check for hidden water in cabinets
Dry Floors and Walls
Hardwood floors may warp if left wet. Use a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air and a fan to blow on the floor. For carpets, rent a carpet steam cleaner or call local water damage pros for a thorough extraction. Lift carpet edges to dry the padding underneath.
Drywall can wick water up from the floor. Cut away any wet drywall that is soft or sagging, and remove baseboards to let the wall cavity dry. If you see dark spots or smell mustiness, mold may be starting. Keep the area dry for several days before replacing materials.
Clean and Sanitize
After the area is dry, clean surfaces with a mild detergent and water. For hard floors, use a disinfectant to kill any bacteria from the flood water. Wash any clothes or fabrics that got wet with hot water and detergent. Throw away items that cannot be washed or dried.
Check the washing machine itself for debris or a kinked hose that caused the flood. Clean the machine's filter and inspect the hoses for cracks. If the machine is old or damaged, you may need a plumber to replace the hoses or the machine. Dry the machine's exterior and the area behind it.
When to Call the Pros
If the flood affected a large area, soaked into walls, or reached a lower level of your home, you may need professional help. Local water damage pros have industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to find hidden water. They can also handle mold remediation if mold has already started.
For upholstery and carpets that are heavily soiled, consider professional upholstery cleaning. If the water reached electrical systems, have an electrician inspect before turning power back on. Check your insurance policy to see if flood damage from a washing machine is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
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Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out a flooded laundry room?
With fans and a dehumidifier, a small room may dry in a few days. But if water soaked into drywall or subflooring, it can take a week or more. You can test by pressing a moisture meter or feeling for dampness. If in doubt, call a professional to check.
Can I save my wet carpet after a washing machine flood?
If you act fast, yes. Remove as much water as possible, then steam clean or have a pro extract it. If the carpet padding is soaked, you may need to replace it. If mold sets in, the carpet may not be salvageable. Dry it within 24 to 48 hours.
What should I do if I see mold after a flood?
Do not touch mold with bare hands. Wear gloves and a mask. Small patches can be cleaned with soap and water or a mold cleaner. Larger areas or mold in walls may require a mold professional. Keep the area dry to stop further growth.