What is one common mistake made during crime scene cleanup regarding porous materials?

One common mistake made during crime scene cleanup involving porous materials is the assumption that all items are restorable. Porous materials, such as carpets, upholstery, and certain types of wood, can absorb biological contaminants, odors, and other residues deeply within their structure. This makes it difficult, if not impossible, to fully restore these items to their original condition, even with extensive cleaning efforts.

Assuming that all items can be salvaged can lead to health risks, as pathogens might remain trapped within these materials. Additionally, this mindset can slow down the cleanup process and divert resources from properly dealing with items that are beyond restoration. Recognizing the limitations of cleaning porous materials is crucial for ensuring safety and effectiveness in trauma and crime scene cleanup.