Mold is a common problem in many homes. It can grow on walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces when excess moisture is present. Mold exposure can cause allergy symptoms and trigger asthma attacks in some people. Killing and removing mold properly is important for health reasons. There are several effective methods for killing mold in a house.
Bleach
Bleach is a strong disinfectant that can kill mold. Look for bleach products that are labeled as mold and mildew removers or mold killers. Make sure the product is not past its expiration date. Mix the bleach with water according to product instructions. Apply it directly to the moldy surfaces using protective gear like gloves and goggles. Scrub the bleach solution over the mold and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then rinse it off and allow the area to dry completely.
Here are some key points about using bleach to kill mold:
- Use bleach safely – Open windows, wear protective gear, and turn off HVAC systems.
- Test on a small area first to check its efficacy and your tolerance.
- Make a fresh batch for each use.
- Apply liberally and scrub it in well.
- Never mix bleach with ammonia or acids.
- Rinse thoroughly after the recommended contact time.
- Allow treated areas to dry completely to prevent mold regrowth.
Borax
Borax is a natural mineral salt that has antifungal properties. To use borax on mold: Combine 1 cup of borax with 1 gallon of hot water and stir until dissolved. Spray or wipe the borax solution onto moldy surfaces. Let it sit for an hour before rinsing and drying the area thoroughly. Borax is safe to use on a variety of surfaces.
Here are some tips for using borax to remove mold:
- Use hot water to fully dissolve the borax.
- Test on a small inconspicuous area first.
- Apply liberally to moldy surfaces.
- Agitate with a scrub brush for tough mold spots.
- Wait at least an hour before rinsing.
- Ventilate the area well.
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Completely dry surfaces after rinsing.
Vinegar
Plain white distilled vinegar is an acidic product that can inhibit mold growth and remove existing mold. Use undiluted vinegar in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the vinegar over the moldy area and let it sit for 1 hour. Scrub the area with a stiff brush. Allow the vinegar solution to sit for an additional hour before rinsing the area with clean water. Dry thoroughly.
Here are some useful tips for using vinegar on mold:
- Use white distilled vinegar (at least 5% acidity).
- Spray or wipe vinegar onto moldy surfaces.
- Let vinegar soak in for 1-2 hours.
- Scrub with a brush or sponge.
- Allow vinegar to penetrate porous materials.
- Repeat as needed for tough mold spots.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly after treatment.
- White vinegar may lighten some surfaces.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another common household item that can kill mold. Look for 3% solutions. Mist hydrogen peroxide onto the moldy area and let it sit for 10 minutes. Reapply if the surface stays wet. Scrub with a stiff brush. Allow it to sit for 15 minutes and then rinse and dry the area well. Hydrogen peroxide can cause discoloration on some surfaces.
Tips for using hydrogen peroxide on mold:
- Use 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
- Apply liberally to the affected surface.
- Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Reapply to keep surface wet for the duration.
- Scrub with a stiff bristle brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry the area completely after treatment.
- May bleach some surfaces.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal essential oil that can be used to clean mold. Add 2 teaspoons of tea tree oil to 2 cups water in a spray bottle. Shake well before use. Spray the tea tree oil solution onto moldy areas until thoroughly wet. Allow it to sit for at least an hour before rinsing and drying the area. Tea tree oil has a strong smell but is non-toxic when diluted in water.
Key points about using tea tree oil for mold removal:
- Always dilute in water before use.
- Shake diluted solution well before each use.
- Spray or wipe onto affected surfaces.
- Let sit for at least an hour.
- Scrub with a brush and rinse after 1-2 hours.
- May need repeat applications for tough mold.
- Rinse and dry area thoroughly after treatment.
- Test in an inconspicuous spot first.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is mildly abrasive and alkaline which helps remove mold and inhibit its regrowth. Make a paste with equal parts baking soda and water. Spread paste onto moldy surfaces with a brush or sponge. Let it dry completely. The baking soda paste will harden as it dries. Scrape and brush off the dry paste. Wipe the area down with clean water. Allow the surface to dry completely after cleaning.
Tips for using baking soda on mold:
- Make a thick paste with equal parts baking soda and water.
- Apply paste and let it dry completely.
- Scrape away and brush off dried paste.
- Wipe area with clean water afterwards.
- May need to repeat process for tough mold spots.
- Allow surface to dry thoroughly when done.
- Works well on porous surfaces like wood and drywall.
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract is a natural mold killing solution. Buy it in liquid concentrate form and dilute it according to product instructions. Apply it directly onto mold with a spray bottle or sponge. Allow the grapefruit seed extract to sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing and drying the area. It may require repeat applications for heavy mold growth. Grapefruit seed extract works well to disinfect and deodorize moldy surfaces.
Key aspects of using grapefruit seed extract on mold:
- Dilute concentrate with water per product directions.
- Shake diluted solution well before each use.
- Apply liberally to moldy surfaces.
- Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Scrub with a bristle brush if needed.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly after application.
- Repeat as needed for heavy mold growth.
- Grapefruit seed extract has a citrus smell.
Preventing Mold Growth
In addition to removing existing mold, it is also important to take steps to prevent mold growth in the future:
- Identify and fix all moisture problems, like leaks and flooding issues.
- Improve ventilation and air circulation.
- Clean and dry wet surfaces quickly after use.
- Limit indoor humidity with dehumidifiers or HVAC systems.
- Clean hard surfaces regularly with a disinfectant.
- Clean debris from drains, gutters and downspouts.
- Use mold inhibiting paints and caulks.
- Ensure proper insulation in attics and exterior walls.
Taking active steps to control moisture and improve indoor air quality can help stop mold growth and create a healthier home environment.
When to Call a Professional
For small areas of mold growth on hard surfaces, the DIY cleaning methods can often effectively kill and remove the mold. However, in some situations it is advisable to hire a mold remediation professional:
- You have a mold allergy or sensitivity.
- There is extensive visible mold growth.
- Mold has grown into porous materials like drywall or wood.
- You see signs of moisture damage like bubbling paint.
- Mold has grown due to sewage backups or flooding.
- HVAC systems, ductwork or crawlspaces have mold issues.
Professional mold remediators have specialized tools, protective equipment, and expertise that allows them to clean and kill mold safely and effectively. They can also assess any underlying moisture issues and advise you on fixing them. This helps ensure that the mold problem is solved permanently.
Conclusion
Mold can negatively impact indoor air quality and health if left unchecked. Thankfully there are several effective options for killing and removing household mold. Common agents like bleach, borax, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and tea tree oil can all be used to combat mold. The key is to thoroughly pre-clean moldy surfaces, apply the product correctly, scrub if needed, rinse, and dry the area completely. Fixing underlying moisture issues is also crucial for preventing mold growth. In severe cases, calling a professional mold remediation company may be wise. With the right solution and proper technique, you can kill mold and keep it away for good.