Remove Mold - All The Effective Methods

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-08-25 09:49

Mold spores are all around us in all types of climate, even if we don't see them. They are indeed fungi that can be very dangerous for the integrity of structures and human health. Since they develop rapidly - sometimes within 24 to 48 hours, leaving them untreated can lead to worsening respiratory illnesses, asthma attacks, and allergies. These negative effects are the reason why you should fight moisture and remove mold before it spreads to large areas.

How to remove mold from your home effectively?

Mold likes dark, warm, humid places that are often out of sight. Once she appears, getting rid of her can be really difficult.

Mold begins as a gray or white powdery colony. It turns black or brown if it is not removed quickly. To check if the surface is covered with mold or just dirt, dab the stain with a cotton swab dipped in bleach. If the stain clears up or goes away after 2-3 minutes, it is mold. Otherwise, it's probably just dirt.

If you smell damp anywhere in your home, you have a high concentration of mold. It could be from a basket full of wet towels, a leak under your shower stall, or a high pile carpet. If the infestation is caught early, you can easily manage it with household cleaners. On the other hand, if the mold covers 10 square feet or more, it is better to call a professional.

Here are some smart ways that can help you keep moldy in your home.

Grandma's Tips for Killing Mold

These natural remedies are great non-toxic alternatives to chemicals for removing black mold. They are safe for your family and the environment and are also less expensive.

Bleach

Sodium hypochlorite or regular bleach works well to destroy mold and remove any discoloration. However, it is good to dilute this product before applying it directly to surfaces as it is quite strong. Also, be careful due to the toxicity of the vapors and never combine with ammonia.

Hydrogen peroxide

Less aggressive than bleach, hydrogen peroxide (3 to 10%) is an antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial solution that can be found in most pharmacies. Although it has a bleaching effect, it works slower but contains no fumes or toxic residues. You can use it safely on a range of surfaces such as kitchen appliances and counters, bathroom accessories and tubs, hard floors and even some wall surfaces.

White vinegar to remove mold

White vinegar is a slightly acidic product that cleans, deodorizes and disinfects. It can also kill 82% of mold species on porous and non-porous surfaces. You can use it safely, and the unpleasant smell will quickly disappear.

Baking soda and borax powder

Whether using it as a fridge deodorant to neutralize bad smells or relieve heartburn, baking soda has a multitude of applications around the home, including removing canker sores..

Just like sodium bicarbonate, borax also has a high pH which inhibits the growth and survival of molds. Both products are inexpensive, non-toxic, and easy to mix with water. Borax works best to remove stubborn stains without damaging the surface.

Essential oils

Tea tree oil is an insect repellant, antiseptic, and deodorant - and it's one of the safest methods to clean up mildew quickly and keep spores from coming back.

Mix a teaspoon of tea tree with a cup of water in a spray bottle and shake vigorously. Spray the affected area, let it dry for an hour, then wipe dry with a microfiber cloth or dry towel. Be sure to wear protective gloves as essential oils can irritate the skin.

Lemons

Lemons are a natural deodorant, antiseptic, bleach, stain remover, and cleanser. The high concentration of acid in it breaks down mold and leaves the surface disinfected. With a wonderful citrus aroma!

Pour the juice of 3-5 lemons over the moldy area and let stand for five minutes, then wipe the surface with a damp towel. If necessary, reapply and scrub to remove stains.

Methods of removing mold from different materials and surfaces

Tissue

Unless it is mold that appeared after a flood in your home, it can easily be removed from most fabrics.

Start by taking the items outside to avoid spreading the spores inside. If the fabric is washable, use the hottest water recommended on the label and add a disinfectant to it. If stains remain, create a solution of bleach and water and let the garment soak for at least eight hours.

For textiles that are dry cleaned only, brush off any mildew on the outside, then take a professional cleaner. Identify and report stains and most fabrics can be successfully restored.

Leather shoes, clothing, accessories and furniture

Chancissure on leather coats, shoes, handbags and upholstery on furniture should be removed externally, if possible. Wipe the surface with a cloth dampened in white distilled vinegar and afterwards with a good leather soap and lukewarm water. Dry with a soft cloth and let sit in the air. Once completely dry, treat the item with a leather conditioner.

Books and papers

The mold will eventually destroy the paper but it can be removed successfully. However, for expensive books and articles of historical significance, consult a professional curator instead.

Never attempt to process wet paper. The mold will smudge it and it will become almost impossible to clean. Allow the paper to dry completely in the sun or in a container sealed with a moisture-absorbing material like silica gel or cornstarch. It is advisable to sprinkle some between the pages.

When the book is dry, take out and use a brush or soft cloth to dust the pages. Slide a sheet of waxed paper under each page to protect the page behind it. Lightly dampen a clean, soft cloth with hydrogen peroxide and wipe gently, letting then air dry before proceeding to the next page.

Household appliances

Appliances such as washers, refrigerators and coffee makers that combine moisture, heat, or food mold should be cleaned frequently.

Sterilize washers by running a hot water cycle with chlorine bleach (without clothes) at least once a month. Inspect all nooks and crannies of the front load washing machine door seals to make sure no spores are developing.

When it comes to refrigerators and coffee makers, distilled white vinegar does an excellent job of cleaning and disinfecting.

Tiles and joints

Moisture in the bathroom and bodily dirt that has fallen on the tiles and grout create the perfect environment for moldy growth.

Simply mix one part bleach to 16 parts water and apply to the affected areas. Leave the solution to act for at least 15 minutes before scrubbing or rinsing. Keep the windows open!

Remove mold from interior walls

It is good to treat mildew stains on hard surfaces such as interior walls, floors, and window sills. For this purpose, you can apply white vinegar or bleach solution and let it sit for half an hour before scrubbing.

Carpet

Apply baking soda and borax solution to the musty stains and let sit for 10 minutes. Then vacuum the affected area to remove the residue. Allow the carpet to air dry completely.

Furniture and wooden objects

In order to remove mold from wood furniture, cabinets and panels, you must first vacuum the affected surfaces. In this way, you will remove the free spores. The other thing to do is mix one part dish detergent, 10 parts bleach and 20 parts water. Apply this solution with a sponge, trying not to over-saturate the wood. Do not rinse and let air dry. In addition, to speed up drying, you can use a hair dryer.

Exterior surfaces of the house

Chlorine bleach is quite effective in cleaning concrete, bricks and stones. However, be aware that it is harmful to plants and lawns. So think about protecting them from its action!

Mix a cup of bleach with 3.5 liters of water. The solution can be used with a garden sprayer, pressure washer or for hand brushing. Always wear safety glasses, a face shield, gloves and special clothing. The bleach solution will cause color loss on any type of fabric.

Wet the moldy areas with clean water, then the bleach solution and leave it on for several minutes. If the mold clears up, move to another area. If the stains persist, rub, then reapply the solution. Allow to air dry completely.

What steps to take to avoid a second contamination?

Since you are not able to throw out all the organic items in your home and live in an environment protected from nylon, polyester and plastic, so you have to remove the water sources for the canker - that is - ie any excessive moisture. Once you've successfully removed the mold, follow these tips to prevent it from growing again:

1. Make sure your home has adequate ventilation.

2. Let the sun's rays get inside at every opportunity.

3. Direct wastewater away from your home.

4. Dry wet areas immediately.

5. Make sure the drainage remains smooth - gutters, pipes and trenches.

6. Regularly clean houseplants by dusting leaves and making sure puddles are removed.

7. Shop for mold resistant products (treated paints and building materials, non-organic fabrics).

8. Ventilate your home well after periods of rain or humid days.

9. Wipe off condensation buildup on windows.

10. Use a humidifier set to less than 55% humidity.

11. Regularly spray fabrics with a mixture of 3 drops of clove oil in 5 cups of water and let dry completely.

12. Spray surfaces regularly with an antibacterial disinfectant spray.

13. Use an air purifier.