A trained mold remediation specialist can use equipment like negative air machines, duct tape, and respirator masks to confine the spread of spores as they work. They can also use heavy-duty plastic to cover doorways, vents, and other openings.
These materials and Clorox bleach, which contains fungicide and cleaner ingredients, are easy to find at the local hardware store. Other products are available that claim to kill, clean, or prevent re-growth. Click here to Learn More.
Bleach is a powerful chemical that disinfects surfaces and kills mold. However, it can also be dangerous to use. Its strong odor and acidic nature can irritate the nose, eyes, throat, and lungs. It can also cause skin rashes and asthmatic symptoms in those sensitive to it.
Bleach works well to kill mold on non-porous surfaces, such as tile flooring or smooth building materials. However, it can’t get deep into porous surfaces and kill mold spores underneath the surface. Additionally, bleach doesn’t remove the underlying moisture issue that caused the mold growth. If the moisture problem isn’t addressed, the mold will reappear in the same places and can be harder to clean up.
Ammonia can be used in a similar way as bleach, but it does not work as effectively on wood and drywall. It is also a highly toxic chemical and can release chlorine gas in the air, which is dangerous for anyone with respiratory problems. Bleach and ammonia also don’t do a good job of killing the mold’s roots, so it will return.
Vinegar is a much safer option for getting rid of mold. It can be used on both porous and non-porous surfaces and kills the mold at the root, which prevents it from returning. It is also less caustic than bleach and can be used on most surfaces. The only drawback is that it can damage some surfaces.
If you are going to use vinegar, be sure to wear rubber gloves and goggles, and make sure the area is well-ventilated. Then, apply the solution to the affected area and scrub. Then, rinse and let the area dry. If the problem is too severe, consider hiring a professional mold removal service. It’s important to find a company that has certified technicians who will take the time to assess your home or business and recommend the best course of action.
Vinegar
White vinegar possesses some of the most potent antifungal properties in the household, killing over 82 different species of mold. Its acidic nature also makes it an effective cleanser, abrasive enough to dislodge and remove stubborn mold stains. Vinegar is a cost-effective, eco-friendly choice for those on a budget and can easily be sourced from most grocery stores. It is recommended to wear protective gloves and goggles when handling vinegar because it can sting the skin when exposed to concentrated amounts.
To use vinegar as a mold removal remedy, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply generously over the affected area, ensuring complete coverage. Then, let the solution sit for an hour or more to enable optimal penetration and killing power. Afterward, wipe the area clean and scrub any remaining spores with a scrub brush or scouring pad. Be sure to scrub in a direction away from the grain of the wood or concrete.
For more advanced applications, consider enhancing the vinegar solution with a few drops of essential oils. For instance, adding a few drops of tea tree oil to the mixture may enhance the vinegar’s effectiveness against mold by infusing it with additional antifungal and disinfectant properties.
Before applying the vinegar solution, it is important to clear away as much of the surface mold as possible. This is especially true for porous surfaces, like stone or wood, as the vinegar’s acidic properties could cause permanent damage to these materials.
It is also a good idea to make sure that the treated area is well-ventilated during the cleaning process by opening windows and using fans or dehumidifiers. This helps to reduce the spread of toxic mold fumes and promotes a fresh, clean environment. It is also important to address any underlying moisture issues that may have contributed to the mold growth in order to prevent future occurrences. For recurring or severe mold issues, professional assessment and removal is highly recommended. This will ensure that the problem is fully addressed and does not recur.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most effective mold removal methods available. It is a natural cleaner that does not contain chemicals and is safe to use around children and pets. It can be mixed with vinegar to create an even stronger cleaning solution that is very effective at removing mold and preventing it from returning.
Vinegar, specifically white distilled vinegar, is a potent natural cleaner that contains antimicrobial properties that kill mold and other bacteria. This makes it an effective mold removal product for a variety of surfaces and materials.
To use baking soda as a mold remover, mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda together in a spray bottle. The acetic acid in the vinegar will kill most types of mold, while the baking soda will absorb excess moisture that can cause mold to grow. The mixture should be sprayed directly onto the mold stain and allowed to sit for about an hour. Then, scrub the area using a toothbrush or scouring pad to remove the mold stains. Once the stains are gone, rinse the area with clean water and let it dry naturally by opening windows or by using a fan.
This method of mold removal is effective for surface stains and may be able to kill airborne spores. However, it is not a full mold removal technique as it does not address the roots of the mold or prevent spores from re-growing. For more comprehensive and long-term mold removal, it is recommended to use a professional mould removal company.
It is important to wear a dust mask and gloves during the cleaning process, as some types of mold can release mycotoxins that are hazardous to your health. This is especially true if you have respiratory problems like asthma. In addition, it is a good idea to open the windows during the cleaning process to allow extra sunlight to help speed up the drying time. Lastly, it is important to properly dispose of used cleaning products and to wash your hands after completing the job to ensure that you do not come into contact with any leftover spores or residue.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Unlike bleach, which may contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and human health, hydrogen peroxide is natural and safe. This household item can be found in medicine cabinets and has many uses, including treating cuts, scrapes, and rashes. It also has antifungal properties, which can help get rid of mold and mildew. Hydrogen peroxide works by generating hydroxyl free radicals that attack and disrupt proteins and other vital cell components of microorganisms, killing them.
Most people are familiar with using this product to disinfect their home, but it is also a good choice for removing mold from hard surfaces. However, it is important to use the right concentration of hydrogen peroxide and to follow the correct application procedures to avoid surface damage.
First, make sure that the area where the mold is located is dry and clean. Then, wear a mask and gloves to prevent breathing in the spores. Finally, open doors and windows to bring in fresh air.
If your home has a basement, it is especially susceptible to mold growth due to the dark, damp conditions and proximity to water leaks. To prevent this problem, make sure that there is proper ventilation and that any water leaks are promptly repaired.
Another thing to keep in mind is that mold spores can be spread through the ventilation system. It is therefore a good idea to wipe down the vents in the room where you are cleaning with hydrogen peroxide, as well as the other rooms of your house.
Hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean mold from most hard surfaces around the house, including flooring, drywall, wood, and metal. It is important to use the right concentration of hydrogen and to apply it with a brush or rag to ensure that it covers all the affected areas. After applying the peroxide:
- Allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
- Scrub with a brush or some other somewhat abrasive material until the mold is removed.
- Rinse and dry the area with a clean rag or towel.
Although it may be tempting to try DIY methods of removing mold from your home, contacting a professional for thorough testing and treatment is always best. Mold growth can cause serious health complications, and it can even eat away at the structure of your home, leading to costly repairs. CLEAR Restoration can help you identify the source of the problem and recommend an effective solution.