If that antique dresser your grandmother bequeathed you, or the photograph of your husband's great grandparents, or that 18th century lampshade which cost you a fortune during one of your shopping sojourns abroad has become wet due to a major roof leak or a flood, don't despair yet; all may not be lost. You may have to take your heirloom to a professional conservator for water damage restoration, but there are ways to mitigate water damage - if you take the following post disaster measures.

1. If the object is still wet or moist, rinse it with clear water or spray it with a fine hose spray, gently. Clean off any dry mud, clay or debris from your precious belongings using a soft brush or a damp cloth. Make sure you use only gentle swabs when you do this, in order to avoid grinding debris into the object and scratching it as a result. Use a soft cloth to dry, and wear rubber or plastic gloves to protect your hands.

2. Air dry the objects, if it is possible. If you expose them to sunlight or heat, they may dry too quickly, resulting in splitting, warping or buckling of the material. If there are any items or contents inside, remove them before drying. Do not store your damp items in sealed plastic bags, as this will encourage more water damage from mold growth. If you have to transport them, keep the bag open to allow air to circulate.

3. The best way to minimize the growth of mold and mildew from water damage is to reduce humidity. To do this, open your windows and turn on your fans, air conditioner or dehumidifier. Moderate light exposure will also help.

4. If there are any heavy deposits of mold growth on walls, floors, baseboards or other surfaces in the house, remove them with commercial disinfectants. However, avoid using disinfectants on antique objects or historic wallpapers so as not to damage them. Mold and mildew can have dangerous effects on the health when inhaled, so protect yourself by using protective gear such as a respirator with a particulate filter if you have one, disposable plastic gloves, goggles, and coveralls or a lab coat. Water damage is bad enough; you do not want to endanger your health too.

5. Antique objects that are broken or have begun to fall apart should be placed in clearly labeled containers, along with all the broken pieces and detached parts. Make sure they are completely dry before you attempt to repair them. If these are valuable and important materials, consult with a professional conservator before you attempt to restore them.

6. Use extreme caution when handling documents, books, photographs and works of art on paper. If these are in frames, remove them from the frame, if possible. Rinse mud off with clear water but avoid touching the surfaces. Then, place them in a well-ventilated area to air dry them. Paper objects that have been soaked in water should be air dried or kept in a freezer until you can take them to a professional conservator for water damage restoration.

7. Air dry textiles, leather, and other "organic" materials. Shaped objects like garments or baskets should be supported by gently padding them with toweling or blank uncoated paper. If the padding is saturated with water, you will have to replace it. After these are completely dry, follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions on laundering or dry cleaning.

8. Wet paintings should be removed from their frames but not from the stretcher. Air dry them facing up and away from direct sunlight.

9. Wet furniture and paintings may develop a white haze after contact with water and humidity. Consult a professional conservator on how to treat water damage on your furniture and paintings.

10. Any metal objects that have been exposed to water should be rinsed and then dried immediately with a clean, soft cloth. Mud on large metal objects such as sculptures may be allowed to dry and then removed.