How to Clean and Kill Mold Using Everyday Household Products
The heat and humidity of the summer provide a perfect environment for mold growth. Should you see the telltale black spots, it is imperative to clean it as soon as possible. The moisture of the season will encourage rapid development. We’ve got some cleaning tips for using everyday household products to kill and remove mold.
Bleach Mold Removal
Bleach is effective and will kill almost any species of indoor mold and spores. It leaves the surface clean, sanitized, and resistant to future growth. However, it will only do so on nonporous materials such as tiles, countertops, glass, and bathtubs. Bleach cannot penetrate porous materials such as drywall or wood or textiles. If you use bleach on these materials, it only kills what is on the surface. And the mold will soon return. This is because only the chlorine of the bleach is left on the surface. The water component of the bleach seeps into the material, providing more moisture for the mold to feed on. Hence an endless cycle of bleaching and re-bleaching. Bleach is also a harsh chemical and may damage what you are cleaning. It emits strong fumes and can be harmful to your skin. Therefore when using bleach always wear gloves and consider wearing a mask.
How to Clean and Kill Mold with Bleach
- Use a ratio of one cup of bleach per gallon of water (i.e., about 1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
- Apply the solution to nonporous surfaces with mold growth using a spray bottle or a bucket and a sponge or cloth.
- No need to rinse the surface afterward, unless it is used for food prep or a surface which may be touched by small children or pets.
Borax Mold Removal
Borax is an excellent natural cleaning product that is highly effective at removing mold. It does not emit toxic fumes and is often used as a deodorizer, insecticide, and fungicide. Borax is also useful for cleaning and deodorizing toilets and drains. You can find it in the laundry detergent section of the grocery store, and it costs only a few dollars.
How to Clean and Kill Mold with Borax
- Mix a borax-water solution using a ratio of 1 cup of borax per gallon of water.
- First, vacuum up any loose mold with a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner. This step decreases the number of spores stirred up into the air during the cleaning process.
- Use a scrubbing brush with the borax-water solution to scrub the mold off the surface.
- Wipe away any extra moisture.
- No need to rinse off the borax as it prevents more mold growth.
Vinegar Mold Removal
Vinegar is mildly acidic and kills up to 82% of mold species. It is also natural and one of the safest product you can use to clean. You will not have to worry about using it around children or pets. White vinegar is extremely inexpensive and has many other helpful uses around the house. Therefore, it is beneficial to always keep a gallon jug in with your cleaning supplies.
How to Clean and Kill Mold with Vinegar
- Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle. Do not water it down.
- Spray the vinegar directly onto the moldy surface. Let sit for an hour.
- Wipe clean the area with water and allow the surface to dry. Any smell from the vinegar should clear within a few hours.
- Vinegar prevents mold growth, as well. Simply spray it on the surface and leave it. Repeat every few days.
- Did you know that you can mop all your nonporous floors with vinegar? This step also inhibits mold growth.
Mold Removal with Hydrogen Peroxide
We are finding so many amazing uses for hydrogen peroxide. It kills mold as it is antifungal. It also serves as an anti-viral and antibacterial agent. Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent alternative to chlorine bleach. Not only does it effectively kill mold, but it is also safe and doesn’t harm the environment. Nor does it leave behind toxic residue or produce toxic fumes like chlorine bleach does. And it is super inexpensive: you can buy a bottle in drug stores for around one dollar. Furthermore, it is effective on all porous and nonporous surfaces. However, it may make colors fade, so spot test in an inconspicuous area before using.
How to Clean and Kill Mold with Hydrogen Peroxide
- Pour 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle.
- Spray the moldy surface directly, saturating with hydrogen peroxide.
- Let sit for 10 minutes, allowing the solution to do its work.
- Then scrub the area, removing all the mold and mold stains.
- Finally, wipe the surface, removing any residual mold, and spores.
- Note: Always store the spray bottle in a dark place because light diminishes hydrogen peroxide’s effectiveness.
Baking Soda Mold Removal
Baking soda is well known as a natural and safe household cleaner. It is entirely harmless to your family and any pets. It also deodorizes, so it removes any musty smells resulting from the mold. Baking soda also absorbs moisture and helps keep mold away. Often, people use vinegar in conjunction with baking soda.
How to Clean and Kill Mold with Baking Soda
- Add a tablespoon of baking soda to a spray bottle of water.
- Shake the bottle to dissolve the baking soda into the water.
- Spray the moldy area with the baking soda and water solution.
- Then use a sponge or scrubbing brush to make sure to remove all the mold from the surface.
- Once you’ve scrubbed away the mold rinse the surface and remove any residuals.
- You can also use a bucket and dip a cloth in the solution.
- Lastly, you can make a paste and apply it to the moldy areas. Let sit until dry. Then spray with vinegar. The two agents combined will bubble up. Then wipe away and allow to dry.
Mold Removal with Tea Tree Oi
Of all the natural mold killing solutions, tea tree oil is the most effective. While it is the most expensive, a small amount goes a long way.
Tea tree oil is an essential oil which is harmless to people and pets. Tea tree oil is antifungal and antibacterial, capable of killing all types of molds. It has so many uses, from a flea repellent for pets to healing many skin conditions. Therefore, it is another highly useful product to always have on hand. You can find it at health food stores.
How to Clean and Kill Mold with Tea Tree Oil
- Combine tea tree oil and water in a spray bottle in a ratio of 1 teaspoon oil per cup of water.
- Spray the solution on the moldy surface. Let sit, then wipe away with a cloth. Spray again.
- Do not rinse as the solution dries it will kill mold and prevent its return.
Contact the Pros
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