Common Mistakes Restoration Contractors Make When Handling Textiles

Handling textiles properly after a loss event is critical for restoration contractors. Mistakes in managing clothing, bedding, curtains, and other soft contents not only lead to increased claim costs but also to unhappy customers and complicated claim processes. 

Unfortunately, even seasoned contractors often make errors when handling textiles simply because they’re unaware of the best practices or underestimate the importance of soft goods in claims.

By understanding and avoiding these common textile handling mistakes, contractors can significantly improve claim outcomes, lower operational costs, and boost customer satisfaction. 

Here’s what you need to watch out for and how you can handle textiles correctly every time.

Mistake #1: Delayed Textile Triage

One of the most frequent errors is not addressing textiles immediately at the loss site. Water-damaged textiles, for example, require prompt attention. Waiting even 24 to 48 hours before properly handling them can lead to mold, odor issues, and permanent damage.

What to do instead:

• Conduct immediate triage at the scene.
• Identify and separate wet, contaminated, and salvageable items promptly.
• Partner with textile restoration specialists who can advise you quickly.

Mistake #2: Mixing Contaminated and Uncontaminated Textiles

Another costly error occurs when contractors accidentally or carelessly mix textiles contaminated with soot, mold, or other contaminants with unaffected items. This cross-contamination dramatically increases claim complexity and restoration costs.

What to do instead:

• Use clearly labeled bins or bags to separate items by contamination level.
• Train your teams thoroughly on contamination control procedures.
• Always assume worst-case contamination levels and separate accordingly.

Mistake #3: Improper Packing and Storage

Placing damp or wet textiles into sealed plastic containers is a common—and costly—mistake. These conditions accelerate mold and mildew growth, causing further damage and additional claim costs.

What to do instead:

• Store damp or wet textiles in breathable containers or mesh bags.
• Arrange prompt pickup and processing with a textile restoration provider.
• Never seal wet items in plastic for storage or transport.

Mistake #4: Inadequate Documentation and Inventory Tracking

Poor documentation and inadequate inventory tracking can cause disputes, delays, and even legal liabilities. Adjusters and homeowners rely on precise records of each item’s condition, handling history, and restoration outcome.

What to do instead:

• Implement item-level inventory tracking with barcodes or tags.
• Photograph and document textiles at each processing stage (pickup, cleaning, delivery).
• Ensure restoration partners provide detailed documentation to protect the claim.

Mistake #5: Attempting In-House Restoration Without Expertise

Some contractors try to manage textile restoration internally, often lacking necessary skills and equipment. Improper cleaning methods or equipment misuse can lead to irreversible damage, insurance disputes, and costly replacements.

What to do instead:

• Outsource textile restoration to certified specialists.
• Ensure restoration partners have proper equipment, such as ozone chambers, specialized solvents, and HEPA filtration dryers.
• Prioritize partnerships that offer comprehensive documentation and accountability.

Mistake #6: Ignoring Emergency Garment Needs

Ignoring the immediate clothing needs of homeowners after a loss can quickly escalate additional living expenses (ALE), frustrating policyholders and increasing claim costs significantly.

What to do instead:

• Identify essential emergency garments immediately.
• Work with textile specialists who offer rapid turnaround (within 24–48 hours).
• Clearly communicate emergency garment services to policyholders to build trust and reduce stress.

Real-Life Example: Costly Mistakes Avoided

A contractor previously faced escalating complaints and higher claim costs due to improper textile handling. 

After implementing proper triage, detailed documentation, and outsourcing to a textile restoration expert like Renewal Claim Solutions, they reduced claim rework by 50%, lowered ALE costs dramatically, and improved customer satisfaction scores significantly.

Good Handling Means Great Outcomes

Avoiding common mistakes in textile handling isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for any successful restoration contractor. 

By proactively addressing textile triage, contamination management, proper documentation, expert restoration outsourcing, and emergency garment handling, contractors can confidently manage claims, satisfy policyholders, and improve profitability.

Ready to enhance your textile handling strategies and eliminate costly mistakes? Contact Renewal Claim Solutions today.