The aftermath of a suicide is a difficult and traumatic experience for everyone involved. In addition to the emotional pain, there is also the practical matter of cleaning up the scene. This can be a daunting task, especially if you are not prepared for it.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how fast you can clean up a suicide. The amount of time it takes will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the scene, the availability of resources, and the emotional state of the people involved.

In some cases, it may be necessary to call in professional cleaners to help with the cleanup. This is especially true if there is a lot of blood or other bodily fluids present. Professional cleaners have the experience and equipment necessary to clean and disinfect the scene safely and effectively.

If you are deciding whether or not to call in professional cleaners, it is important to weigh the cost of their services against the time and energy you are willing to put into cleaning the scene yourself. It is also important to consider your own emotional state. If you are feeling overwhelmed or traumatized, it is best to leave the cleanup to the professionals.

Here are some general tips for cleaning up the scene of a suicide:

• Secure the scene. This means calling the police and notifying the next of kin. It is also important to prevent anyone else from entering the scene, as this could contaminate the evidence.
• Wear protective gear. This includes gloves, a mask, and goggles. It is also a good idea to wear long sleeves and pants.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate the area. This will help to remove any unpleasant odors and reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Remove any blood or bodily fluids using a paper towel or cloth dampened with water and soap. Be careful not to spread the fluids around.
• Disinfect the area using a bleach solution or other disinfectant. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label carefully.
• Remove any sharp objects, such as knives or razor blades.
• Clean up any broken glass or other debris.
• Once the scene is clean, dispose of all waste materials properly. This includes placing any blood-soaked materials in a sealed bag and disposing of it in a hazardous waste container.

It is important to note that the cleanup process is not just about removing the physical evidence of the suicide. It is also about creating a safe and supportive environment for the people who are grieving. Be sure to take your time and take care of yourself during this difficult time.

If you are helping someone else to clean up a suicide scene, it is important to be patient and understanding. Everyone grieves in their own way, and there is no right or wrong way to cope with the loss of a loved one. Be sure to listen to them and offer your support.

Here are some additional tips for helping someone cope with the aftermath of a suicide:

• Let them know that you are there for them. Offer to listen to them, help them with practical tasks, or simply be there for companionship.
• Encourage them to seek professional help. A therapist can provide them with the support and guidance they need to cope with their grief.
• Be patient and understanding. Grief is a process, and it takes time to heal. 

What to do if you are unable to clean up the scene yourself

If you are unable to clean up the scene of a suicide yourself, there are a number of resources available to help you. You can call a professional cleaning company, contact your local morgue or funeral home, or reach out to a suicide prevention organization.

Professional cleaning companies have the experience and equipment necessary to clean and disinfect the scene safely and effectively. They will also be able to dispose of any hazardous materials properly.

**If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org***