March 14, 2022
Any home can develop a mold problem under the right conditions. If left untreated, mold can pose a hazard to your health. Thankfully, you can clean mold around your house safely and effectively with the right tools and know-how.
Before we dive into eliminating household molds, it’s important to know what you’re working with.
What Is Mold?
Mold is a fungus that consumes organic matter like food, wood, leaves, and the like. While mold thrives outdoors, it can also thrive inside your home, posing a common but troublesome problem for many homeowners.
When mold releases spores, those spores travel via air, attaching to any surface it can cling to. There are dozens of mold varieties, each slightly different but sharing a common factor: growth. All molds require two conditions to survive: moisture and food sources.
Food doesn’t have to be human food, like your favorite casserole. It can be common materials around the house, such as wood, leather, fabrics, paper products, and even dirt. Moisture usually comes from condensation or standing water. Even just a tiny puddle is enough to harbor bacteria.
Since molds need moisture to grow, there’s no wonder why bathrooms are a hotspot for this fungus. Sinks, tubs, toilets, basements, crawlspaces, basins, and the like are all prime spaces for mold to hide in your home.
Does Baking Soda Kill Mold?
Yes! Baking soda can kill molds. If you’re a fan of less harsh cleaners, you’ve probably already experimented with the power of baking soda. It’s a natural and well-known household cleaner and deodorizer.
Unlike other cleaning products full of harsh chemicals, baking soda will not leave a trail of chemical danger behind it. Baking soda also absorbs moisture to help keep mold at bay.
Mix one part baking soda with two parts water (or vinegar) to clean moldy surfaces.
Does Vinegar Kill Mold?
Yes! Vinegar does kill mold. While it only kills 82% of mold species, it will likely be able to kill the mold variety present in your home. Similar to baking soda, vinegar is an excellent alternative to harsh cleaners.
Good old vinegar is natural, safe, and non-toxic to your environment. Many people use it alongside baking soda for a double dose of clean; the two products go hand in hand.
Tip: You can use straight vinegar to clean mold off wood.
Mix one part vinegar and one part water (or baking soda) to clean moldy surfaces.
Does Bleach Kill Mold?
Yes, chlorine bleach can kill molds hiding around your house. Use it to eliminate traces of mold on tubs, sinks, tile surfaces, and other impermeable surfaces. Do NOT use chlorine bleach to kill mold on porous surfaces, such as wood, fabric, leather, or natural stone.
Mix one cup of bleach in a gallon of water, using a rag to wipe any mold away.
How To Clean Black Mold
While black mold sounds life-threatening and scary, it’s just another type of mold, and it’s not invincible. Chemical-based cleaners, vinegar solutions, and bleach- specifically- is effective at destroying bacteria.
Here is how to clean black mold.
- First, protect yourself with gloves and a respirator or face mask. Also, wear long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin.
- Then, prepare the area. Turn off any air conditioning or heaters to prevent air circulation. If possible, set up an exhaust fan pointed toward a window to move spores outside.
- Lastly, treat the area with your desired solution. Spray the cleaning product and let it sit for up to an hour. Scrub or wipe the area with a sponge. Let it dry, and repeat the process to ensure the mold is completely gone.
P.S. Read this blog post to learn how to clean your home from top to bottom.
How to Permanently Kill Mold
Since we know mold needs moisture and food to survive, the best way to permanently kill mold is to find and eliminate the water source.
For example, humidity and condensation are solved with better ventilation and insulation. If something is leaking, repair the leak immediately, even if it’s just a dripping faucet.
You can also try using high-powered fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the problem area. Once the space feels nice and dry, disinfect the area again for good measure.
In severe cases of wood mold, you may have to remove or replace damaged flooring, walling, or cabinetry. Using a cleaner to Band-Aid the problem only goes so far.
Real Cleaning Services
Ready to experience what a truly clean house feels like? Our team is professionally trained to ensure only the highest-quality cleaners step foot into your space. We are also insured, so that means you can rest easier knowing your space is protected while we work.
Whether you need a one-time deep clean for your home or a thorough office cleaning, we get our hands dirty in it all to give your space a real clean. Request a quote today to gift yourself a fresher environment tomorrow.