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Fire and Smoke Damage RestorationContents RestorationAsk Annissa

Ask Annissa

Safely Cleaning Smoke-Affected Crystals and Coral

When handling delicates that are smoke damaged, what’s best? Ultrasonic or Manual?

By Annissa Coy
January 8, 2026

This week’s Ask Annissa dives into a unique question from Shelby, who recently completed Firehouse Education training and reached out about cleaning smoke-affected crystals and coral for a client deeply rooted in holistic wellness. 

Shelby wondered whether ultrasonic cleaning was safe for these delicate items.  

Annissa’s expert advice? Start with client onboarding, understand the emotional and functional value of these pieces before ever starting the cleaning process. While ultrasonic can work for hard minerals, warm water, a soft brush, and mild soap are a safer choice and method for crystals, and coral should never be dipped. You should opt for gentle air and light brushing instead. Communication and care are key when handling specialty contents. 


Do you have a burning question for Annissa? Email her at anissa@firehouseeducation.com with “Ask Annissa” in the subject line and you might be featured on the next episode!

KEYWORDS: catastrophe response contents cleaning specialty contents restoration wildfire damage restoration

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Annissa coy

Annissa Coy is a well-trained and highly skilled professional with more than two decades of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry and the co-creator of Firehouse Education and Mobile Cleaning Systems. She was also the winner of R&R’s inaugural Recognizing Women in Restoration award in 2017. Be sure to check out Annissa’s weekly videos on www.randrmagonline.com! Have a question for Annissa? E-mail her at Annissa@firehouseeducation.com.

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