Mold spores can cause serious health problems, so it’s important to tackle the problem immediately. Ideally, professional mold removal should include containment, air filtration, and restoration of any damaged building materials.
Mold needs two things to grow: moisture and a food source, which is typically cellulose. Mold loves wooden surfaces such as window sills, wall framing and furniture.
1. Baking soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is an effective, affordable, and natural mold remover. It can be used alone or mixed with vinegar to kill mold and clean surfaces. It is non-toxic and safe for a variety of materials, including wood and drywall. It is also useful for absorbing foul odors and helps deodorize surfaces. It can be applied to a wet rag or sponge and scrubbed into the moldy area, and then wiped away.
When mixed with white vinegar, baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that lifts and eliminates mold spores. The chemical reaction of the acidic vinegar and alkaline baking soda generates heat, which further cleans the surface while killing spores.
For a powerful and effective homemade cleaner, mix 1 part distilled white vinegar with 2 parts of baking soda to achieve a paste-like consistency. Apply the mixture to moldy areas and leave to sit for an hour before scrubbing. Rinse with a damp scrub brush and wipe dry with a cloth. Repeat as needed. For best results, address the underlying cause of the mold growth by locating and sealing water leaks.
2. Borax
Borax is an old-fashioned household cleaner that works well on light mold stains. Its alkaline properties kill spores and disrupt their growth, while its antifungal properties discourage regrowth. Unlike bleach, borax produces no harsh fumes and is safe to use around children and pets.
Combine a cup of borax powder with hot water to create a solution that is easy to apply to a moldy surface. The heat helps the borax dissolve faster, so it can be sprayed on quickly. Mix a smaller amount of borax powder with water to make a paste for more severe mold stains. Apply this to the affected area using a brush or sponge and wipe clean after some time.
Borax can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including tile, glass, and metal. It can also be applied to porous materials like drywall and unsealed wood to kill mold spores and remove discoloration. However, it may not fully remove deep-set mold stains on these materials. If the problem persists, professional mold removal is recommended. This will ensure the underlying cause is addressed, which is likely a hidden moisture issue.
3. Bleach
Bleach is a common household cleaner that can sterilize surfaces and eradicate many germs, including mold. It is also often used as a sanitizer to kill bacteria, though it does not kill all types of mold and can be dangerous in some situations.
It is important to wear protective gear and a mask to avoid exposure to mold spores and bleach fumes when cleaning up any type of mold growth. It is also necessary to rinse the area thoroughly and address any underlying moisture issues to prevent future mold growth.
It is recommended that you use a solution of 1 cup bleach per gallon of water when cleaning mold growth. This should be applied generously and allowed to sit for at least 15 minutes before scrubbing. It is also possible to combine baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or tea tree oil with white distilled vinegar to create an at-home mold cleaner that is just as effective but less toxic for your health and the environment. Always be sure to wear rubber gloves and safety goggles when using any cleaning agent to protect yourself from any potential skin or eye irritation.
4. Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective mold killer. Like bleach, it is an oxidizer and releases oxygen rapidly to break down organic compounds such as mold. It also possesses antimicrobial properties and is non-toxic and less volatile than bleach making it safer for homes with children or sensitive people.
When applied to a mold infestation it causes the surface to oxidize, killing the mold and allowing you to wipe it away. It is effective on hard surfaces such as drywall and bathroom tiles. However, it may not kill the underlying mold in porous surfaces such as wood or fabric. Furthermore, it does not kill mycotoxins which are potentially harmful carcinogens found in some mold varieties.
For best results, mix a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to achieve a paste consistency. Apply the mixture to your infested surfaces and allow it to sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing with a damp scrub brush. Rinse well with clean water and dry. Keep in mind that removing the mold is only part of the battle; you need to remove or replace the infested materials and fix the source of moisture that allowed it to grow in the first place.
5. Vinegar
Mold spores grow in moist areas and can contribute to allergies, asthma, and other breathing issues. They also damage surfaces and break down finishes. Vinegar, which contains acetic acid, kills mildew and some types of mold.
It works best undiluted, so add some plain white vinegar to a spray bottle. Then, apply the vinegar directly to a moldy surface. If possible, open a window to help ventilate the room. Wear protective cleaning gloves, goggles or masks, and a scrubbing brush or scouring pad.
Vinegar is effective for removing mildew and stains from many surfaces including glass, metals, plastics, and tiles. However, it can stain porous surfaces such as wood. In addition, it is not suitable for use on polished or varnished surfaces such as wood flooring and trim. This is because the acidity can damage and discolor these materials. In addition, vinegar may not completely remove mold from certain surfaces like drywall. In this case, it is a good idea to contact a professional.