How to Remove Fireworks Stains from Any Surface
Fireworks are synonymous with the Fourth of July and New Year (though that’s a ways away from now). Still, most people don’t consider the cleanup efforts involved after the fun is had. The next morning, you may wake up to find your concrete driveway stained with residue, your kids’ clothes smelling smoky, and your shoes completely discolored.
So, what are your options? Replace your entire driveway and buy a new wardrobe? Not a chance! You can completely avoid costly replacements by cleaning fireworks stains from carpets, clothing, concrete, and other surfaces to prepare for next year’s celebration.
First and Foremost, Fireworks Safety is Vital
You and your family will inevitably participate in lighting fireworks or watching them. Either way, fireworks safety is the most important thing. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, around 15,600 people were treated in emergency rooms for firework-related injuries, while at least 18 people died from firework-related incidents in 2020.
These statistics aren’t meant to scare or deter anyone from enjoying fireworks during the Fourth of July. Our goal is to emphasize the need for safety procedures and extinguishing measures before your loved ones are seriously injured.
We recommend following these fireworks safety tips:
Avoid making DIY fireworks
Accompany and supervise children while lighting fireworks
Keep a hose or fire extinguisher close
Light fireworks outside, never inside an enclosed area
Never relight dead or dud fireworks
Important Cleaning Tools You’ll Need
Before stressing over the cleaning process, you’ll need a few tools to tackle cleaning fireworks stains from hard and soft surfaces. Fortunately, we’re cleaning experts and have you covered.
The cleaning tools you’ll need include:
Bleach
Pressure Washer
Hydrogen Peroxide
Rubbing Alcohol
Water
Stiff Bristle Brush
Sponge
Medium-Sized Container
Bucket
Sandpaper
Laundry Detergent
Lemon Juice
Remember, prior to using some of these products on a stain, test the solution on a small area first and assess the results. While these supplies can effectively remove stains, they may damage certain delicate fabrics and surfaces.
How to Get Fireworks Burn Stains Out of Carpets
Fireworks should never be lit inside your home. However, suppose this accidentally happens, we have an effective way to clean burn marks out of carpet fibers.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Assess the carpet to determine if you have singed fibers and/or discoloration. You’ll need sandpaper to remove damaged parts for hard and burned carpet fibers. Be gentle, as you don’t want to remove fibers with simple discoloration.
Step 2: Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Once burned fibers are removed, review the spot for discolored areas. Take your hydrogen peroxide and test a small spot first. Wait until the area is completely dry to review the results and decide if you should continue cleaning with this product.
Step 3: Blot the Area
Continue to work the peroxide into the rest of the stained areas, starting from the outside of the stain and working your way to the middle. When the scorch marks are gone, blot with a damp cloth or sponge and use a towel to assist with drying.
How to Remove Fireworks Stains from Concrete
Fireworks stains are usually more prevalent outside on your sidewalk or driveway. You can rent or purchase a power washer to easily remove these stuck-on stains or anticipate stains before they happen.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Combine Water and Bleach
Combine three parts water and one part bleach in a bucket and pour it onto the affected concrete. Let the solution sit for five minutes and scrub vigorously with a stiff bristle brush.
Step 2: Use a Power Washer
If there are tougher firework stains to remove, use a power washer. Confirm that your power washer exerts at least 3,000 PSI of pressure. The trick to successfully cleaning burn marks from your driveway is to ensure the tip of the pressure washer is at least a foot away from the concrete, or you risk expensive damage.
How to Remove Fireworks Blemishes from Clothes & Shoes
Common stains in soft fabrics like cotton, linen, and polyester can be challenging to remove. Enter fireworks soot and burn stains. You might think it’s best to just throw out the article of clothing and get something new. But what if the pair of shoes or t-shirt is vintage or holds some sentimental value? You can’t simply replace it. Let us help you safely remove the stain.
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Pre-Treat the Stain
Pre-treating your clothing is the most important step in removing fireworks residue in clothing. Time is of the essence, and you want to treat the area as soon as possible. Use your favorite detergent or a prewash spray to coat the stain thoroughly. Let the solution sit for at least two hours before putting it in the washing machine.
Step 2: Soak the Stain
For particularly tough fireworks stains, soak the clothing or shoes in peroxide while the fabric is still wet and launder again.
Step 3: Assess the Stain
After the second wash cycle, check the stain. It should either be gone or significantly lighter. Sprinkle salt and lemon juice over the faded stain and let air dry in direct sunlight.
Enjoy Fourth of July with Detailed & Affordable Cleaning Services
You don’t have to completely nix your plans just to avoid potential fireworks stains. Our experienced and dedicated cleaning professionals want you to enjoy the Fourth of July while we clean and organize your home. Let us help you clean before and after the fireworks festivities to get your home back in order.
Call (888) 490-4227 for more information about our holiday cleaning and organizational services and request a free estimate.
