How to Clean up After Raccoons in My Attic Space?
Last updated October 31, 2026
The short answer
Safety First
Raccoon droppings can carry roundworm eggs and other pathogens, so protect yourself before touching anything. Wear rubber gloves, a disposable respirator (N95 or better), and safety goggles. Long sleeves and pants reduce skin contact. If you feel unwell during or after cleanup, see a doctor.
Open attic windows and doors to ventilate the area while you work. If you have a fan, point it outward to pull air out. Avoid using a vacuum or broom on dry droppings, as that can stir up dust. Wet the droppings lightly with a bleach solution before removing them to keep particles down.
Remove Contaminated Materials
Carefully pick up and double-bag any droppings, urine-soaked insulation, and nesting materials. Dispose of them in an outdoor trash container. For porous materials like wood or drywall that are soaked, you may need to cut away and replace sections. If you are unsure, a professional can assess what can be saved.
After removing the bulk of the mess, use a wet/dry vacuum to pick up any remaining debris. Then wash hard surfaces like rafters, floorboards, and walls with a detergent solution. Rinse with clean water, then apply a disinfectant labeled for animal waste. Let it sit for the time stated on the label.
- Wear heavy-duty rubber gloves
- Use a respirator with particle filters
- Double-bag all contaminated waste
- Wet droppings before removal
- Disinfect all hard surfaces
- Dispose of waste in outdoor trash
Disinfect and Deodorize
Mix a bleach solution of one part bleach to nine parts water for disinfecting. Apply it to all non-porous surfaces and let it air dry. For areas where the smell lingers, an enzymatic cleaner can break down the organic matter. Test any cleaner on a small spot first to avoid staining.
After disinfecting, dry the attic thoroughly. Use fans and a dehumidifier to lower moisture levels. If the space stays damp, mold can grow quickly. In humid climates, drying is key to preventing secondary damage. If you have a lot of moisture, structural drying and dehumidification may be needed.
Seal Entry Points
Raccoons often enter through gaps in eaves, vents, or rooflines. Inspect the attic for any openings wider than a half inch. Look for chewed wood, broken vents, or loose flashing. Seal these with heavy-gauge wire mesh, metal flashing, or caulk. Trim tree branches that overhang the roof to reduce access.
After sealing, consider installing a one-way door or motion-activated light to discourage return visits. If you are unsure how the raccoons got in, a local water damage pro can inspect the attic and identify potential entry points. They can also check for water damage that might have softened wood and made entry easier.
When to Call the Pros
If the raccoon mess covers a large area, involves heavy insulation contamination, or has caused water damage, professional help may be wise. Local water damage pros can handle attic cleanup, sanitization, and drying. They have commercial-grade equipment and knowledge of safe disposal methods.
- Large or deep contamination
- Water damage from rain or leaks
- Contaminated insulation or drywall
- Strong odors that persist
- Need for structural drying
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (617) 404-2753Frequently asked questions
Can I clean raccoon droppings myself?
Yes, if the area is small and you take safety precautions. Wear gloves, a respirator, and goggles. Wet the droppings with a bleach solution before removal. For large areas or if you have health concerns, consider hiring pros.
What should I do with contaminated insulation?
Remove and double-bag it, then dispose of it in an outdoor trash container. Do not compost or reuse it. After removal, disinfect the surrounding surfaces. If insulation is extensive, a pro can handle disposal and replacement.
How do I get rid of the raccoon smell?
Clean all surfaces with detergent and water, then apply a disinfectant. An enzymatic cleaner can break down odor-causing residue. Dry the area thoroughly with fans and a dehumidifier. If the smell persists, the contamination may be deeper, and professional cleaning may help.