Water damage can quickly lead to biological pollutants in your home. Follow these guidelines for correcting water damage: Throw out mattresses, wicker furniture, straw baskets and the like that have been water damaged or contain mold. Discard any water-damaged furnishings such as carpets, drapes, stuffed toys, upholstered furniture and ceiling tiles, unless they can be recovered by steam cleaning or hot water washing and thorough drying. Remove and replace wet insulation to prevent conditions where biological pollutants can grow.