Water damage can be a devastating event for any homeowner. It can cause extensive damage to your property and belongings, and it can also pose a serious health hazard. If you experience water damage, it's important to act quickly to clean up the mess and prevent further damage. **One of the most important things to do after water damage is to remove any furniture that has been sitting in water.** The longer furniture sits in water, the more likely it is to be ruined. **How long can furniture sit in water before being ruined?** The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the type of furniture, the type of water, and the temperature of the water. * **Type of furniture:** Some types of furniture are more likely to be ruined by water than others. For example, upholstered furniture is more likely to be ruined than hardwood furniture. * **Type of water:** The type of water can also affect how long furniture can sit in it before being ruined. Saltwater is more damaging to furniture than freshwater. * **Temperature of the water:** The temperature of the water can also affect how long furniture can sit in it before being ruined. Warm water is more damaging to furniture than cold water. **In general, most furniture can only sit in water for a few hours before it starts to be ruined.** If furniture is left in water for more than a few hours, it is likely to develop mildew, mold, and other problems. **If your furniture has been sitting in water, it's important to act quickly to clean it up and prevent further damage.** Here are a few tips for cleaning up water-damaged furniture: * Remove all wet furniture from the affected area. * Wipe down all wet surfaces with a clean cloth. * Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any excess water from the furniture. * Open all doors and drawers to allow the furniture to air out. * If the furniture is upholstered, remove the cushions and padding and allow them to air out. * If the furniture is made of wood, use a wood cleaner to clean it. * Apply a water repellent to the furniture to help protect it from future water damage. **If you're not sure whether or not your furniture can be salvaged, it's best to consult with a professional water damage cleanup company.** They will be able to assess the damage and determine whether or not the furniture can be repaired.