Mold growth is a common problem in many homes. Exposure to mold can cause a variety of health issues like allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. Mold also leads to structural damage in homes. Instead of using harsh chemicals, many homeowners prefer to use natural methods to kill and prevent mold.
What causes mold to grow in your home?
Mold spores are present everywhere – both indoors and outdoors. Mold can begin growing indoors when spores land on wet or damp surfaces. The key conditions mold needs to grow are:
- Moisture – From leaks, flooding, high humidity etc.
- Organic material – Drywall, wood, carpet etc. Mold feeds on these.
- Oxygen – Mold needs air to grow.
Common sources of moisture that lead to mold include roof leaks, high humidity, flooding, plumbing leaks, condensation, damp basements etc. Bathrooms, basements, kitchens and areas with poor ventilation are most prone to mold growth. Any organic material like drywall, wood, books, carpets etc. provides food for mold to grow.
How can you identify a mold problem at home?
Some common signs that indicate mold growth at home include:
- Visible mold growth – black, green, white or gray fuzz on surfaces
- Musty, earthy odor
- Discolored patches on walls or ceilings
- Peeling or curling of vinyl floors or wallpapers
- Increased moisture or water stains on surfaces
- Rotting wood
You may also experience symptoms like wheezing, skin irritation, allergies, coughing etc. when exposed to mold. Mold is unsafe for health and causes structural damage, so identifying and fixing mold issues early is important.
Should you use bleach to kill mold?
Bleach is a strong chemical disinfectant that easily kills mold. However, using bleach comes with some important precautions and limitations:
- Bleach only disinfects the surface of porous materials like wood and drywall. Mold roots can remain alive under the surface and regrow.
- Bleach does not prevent future mold growth. For that moisture source must be fixed.
- The fumes from bleach are toxic and can aggravate respiratory problems.
- Bleach can damage and discolor surfaces.
- Protective gear like goggles, gloves and an N95 mask should be worn when using bleach.
For small areas of hard, non-porous surfaces, bleach can disinfect and remove mold. However, for porous structural materials, bleach is not very effective and has safety concerns. Other options should be considered.
What are the best natural ways to kill mold?
Many common household products can be effective, natural mold killers. Natural methods are safe, non-toxic, environmentally friendly and help prevent mold growth in future.
1. White vinegar
White vinegar is a mild acid that can kill 82% of mold species. Its antibacterial properties also help prevent mold growth. To use:
- Spray undiluted white vinegar directly on the moldy area and let it sit for 1 hour.
- Scrub the area and wipe away all remaining mold and vinegar.
- Dry the area completely.
Vinegar can be used on most hard surfaces like tile, glass and countertops. Use protective gear when spraying. Ventilate the area well. Vinegar may damage grout. Test on a small area first.
2. Baking soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and cleaner. For mold removal:
- Make a paste with water and baking soda.
- Apply the paste to moldy areas and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Scrub to loosen mold and wipe clean.
- Dry the area completely.
The abrasive texture of baking soda scrubs away mold. Repeat if needed for severe mold growth. Baking soda is safe for most surfaces.
3. Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide at 3% concentration is effective against mold. It can be used on non-porous surfaces like tile, glass, metals etc. Follow these steps:
- Spray hydrogen peroxide directly on the mold.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes to kill mold.
- Scrub the area and wipe away mold.
- Dry the area thoroughly.
Ensure the area has proper ventilation when using hydrogen peroxide. Wear protective gear to prevent skin or eye irritation.
4. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a natural mold killer and preventive due to its anti-fungal properties. It also removes musty odors and prevents future mold growth. To use tea tree oil:
- Mix 2 teaspoons of tea tree oil with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution directly on mold affected areas until thoroughly covered.
- Let it sit for 1 hour. The oil will penetrate porous surfaces and kill the roots.
- Wipe away excess oil and mold with cloth or scrub brush.
- Repeat application if needed.
Tea tree oil can be used on drywall, wood, tile, grout and other materials. It prevents mold regrowth. The oil may damage plastic, rubber or painted surfaces.
5. Grapefruit seed extract
Grapefruit seed extract contains antimicrobial compounds that make it effective against mold. To use:
- Mix 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly spray on the moldy areas until fully covered.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Wipe away the spray and mold residue.
- Dry the area completely.
Test grapefruit seed extract on a small patch first to check for discoloration or damage. It works on non-porous surfaces. Repeat application if needed.
6. Borax
Borax acts as a fungicide that kills mold and prevents further growth. It can be used as follows:
- Mix 1 cup borax with 1 gallon of water.
- Use a sponge or spray to apply the solution onto moldy surfaces.
- Let the borax solution sit for 1 hour.
- Scrub away visible mold and wipe the area clean.
- Vacuum up any leftover borax powder.
Borax works well on drywall, tile, concrete, wood, glass and other materials. Take care to avoid contact with eyes and skin when using borax.
7. Essential oils
Many essential oils like clove, thyme, cinnamon, lemon, lavender etc. have anti-fungal properties. They can be used to kill and prevent mold by:
- Mixing 5-10 drops of your chosen essential oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Spraying onto mold affected areas until fully covered.
- Letting it sit for 1 hour.
- Wiping away excess oil and mold residue.
Use protective gear when handling essential oils to avoid skin or eye irritation. Oils may stain surfaces, so test in a small area first.
Tips to boost effectiveness of natural mold killers
Here are some useful tips to get the best results when using natural mold removal methods:
- First scrub away any visible mold using soap and water.
- Ensure the area is well-ventilated during treatment.
- Use protective gear like gloves, goggles and mask.
- Thoroughly dry the area after wiping away mold to prevent regrowth.
- Identify and fix all moisture sources leading to mold growth.
- Repeat applications if mold growth is severe.
- Disinfect and dry surrounding areas to prevent spreading of spores.
- Properly dispose of any cleaning equipment used.
- Allow treated areas to completely dry before painting or caulking.
How to prevent mold growth
Along with mold killing, it is equally important to take preventive measures to stop mold growth in future:
- Fix all water leaks and moisture intrusion points.
- Maintain humidity levels between 30-50%. Install dehumidifier if needed.
- Increase air circulation and ventilation.
- Clean bathrooms, basements and other damp areas frequently.
- Promptly dry any water spills or flooding.
- Use mold proof paints for bathrooms, basements etc.
- Clean AC units, dehumidifiers and ventilation ducts regularly.
- Add mold inhibitors to paints during home construction.
Prevention is better than dealing with a major mold issue later. Ensure your home has adequate ventilation, no excess moisture and repair any leaks promptly.
When to call professional mold removal services
In case of severe, extensive mold growth, it is best to hire professional mold removal services. Professionals have training, protective gear and chemicals to effectively remove mold and stop regrowth. It is recommended to call pros if:
- There is large area of visible mold growth.
- Flooding or water damage has occurred.
- You have health issues or allergies from mold exposure.
- Mold growth is in hidden spaces like walls or HVAC systems.
- You are unable to identify or fix the moisture source.
- DIY methods are unable to remove mold completely.
Extensive mold testing, remediation, repairs and structural drying may be needed in such cases. Only professionals have the expertise and equipment to handle large scale mold removal and prevention.
Conclusion
Mold growth can happen in any home due to excess moisture. Thankfully, many safe, natural methods and ingredients can kill and remove mold effectively. Products like vinegar, baking soda, borax, hydrogen peroxide and essential oils are great alternatives to harsh chemicals for mold removal. Along with actively killing existing mold, it is crucial to fix underlying moisture issues in your home and take steps to prevent future mold growth. For severe mold infestations, hiring professional mold remediation services may be your best and safest option.