Mold — is there anything that keeps homeowners up at night more than wondering how to clean mold? Pesky and persistent, mold grows and thrives wherever there is moisture, causing severe damage to the property and risking human health, especially in the case of black mold. If not addressed, it will gradually spread, covering and deteriorating all aspects of your home.

This manual will cover methods for removing it from different areas within your residence, focusing on common mold-affected areas, products that kill mold, and step-by-step instructions for different surfaces.

Common Mold-Affected Areas

It thrives in damp, humid environments, so some parts of your home are more susceptible to mold growth. Here are the most commonly affected areas in a home:

Bathrooms

It can grow on tiles, grout, and caulking due to the constant moisture from showers and baths.

Kitchens

Appliances, cabinets, and countertops can harbor mold if not regularly cleaned and dried.

Basements

Poor ventilation and moisture from the ground, on walls, flooring, and stored items.

Attics

Insufficient ventilation and roof leaks can lead to mold on wood, affecting insulation, rafters, and stored belongings.

Laundry rooms

Moisture from washing machines and dryers can encourage mold growth if not properly ventilated.

Window sills and frames

Condensation can accumulate and lead to mold growth, especially in older homes with poor insulation.

Cleaning Products That Kill Mold

Several cleaning products can effectively remove it and help you maintain a clean and healthy home. Here are some popular mold-killing products:

Hydrogen peroxide

A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can be an effective, non-toxic option for killing mold on various surfaces.

Chlorine bleach

While powerful, bleach should be used cautiously due to its corrosive nature and potential to discolor surfaces.

Distilled white vinegar

A natural alternative, vinegar can kill up to 82% of mold species, making it a versatile mold killer.

Mold killer spray

Commercial mold removal products are designed to target it, but following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use is essential.

Rubbing alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher) can remove it and is particularly useful for cleaning mold off walls and other non-porous surfaces.

How to Get Rid of Mold on Walls

Tackling it on your walls might seem overwhelming, but if you follow these steps, you’ll make the job much easier:

1. Evaluate the situation

If it covers a large area or seems to have infiltrated the wall structure, it’s best to call in a professional mold remediation service.

2. Prepare the area

Clear any furniture or items near the moldy wall and lay down plastic sheeting to shield the floor from cleaning solutions.

3. Suit up

Don gloves, a mask, and goggles to protect yourself from mold spores while you clean.

4. Pick your mold-busting weapon

Opt for a spray or solution, such as hydrogen peroxide, bleach, or the natural method of killing mold with vinegar.

5. Apply your chosen solution

Spritz or dab the solution onto the moldy spot and let it sit for the suggested time, usually around 10-15 minutes.

6. Time to scrub

Grab a scrub brush or cloth and start removing it from the wall.

7. Rinse and dry

After scrubbing, wipe away any leftover solution. Then, allow the surface to dry thoroughly to prevent it from returning.

How to Remove Mold From Wood

If you’re dealing with mold on wood, things can get a bit trickier. Here’s how to remove black mold from wooden surfaces:

1. Air out the room

Crack open windows and doors to ensure good ventilation while working with cleaning solutions.

2. Vacuum up loose spores

Use a HEPA-filter vacuum to suck up any mold spores from the wood.

3. Whip up a cleaning mixture

Mix water, white vinegar, or a store-bought remover in a spray bottle.

4. Apply the solution and scrub

Spray the solution onto the mold. After a few minutes, use a soft-bristle brush to remove it from the wood (being careful not to scratch the surface) before wiping the area with a damp cloth. Allow to dry.

5. Seal the deal

Once the wood is completely dry, apply a mold-resistant sealant to keep future mold growth at bay.

Bathroom Mold and Mildew Removal

Bathroom mold and mildew can be stubborn, but these steps will help you remove them from tiles and grout:

1. Ventilate the bathroom

Open windows or turn on exhaust fans to ensure proper ventilation.

2. Mix a cleaning solution

Dilute white vinegar and commercial mold cleaner with water in a spray bottle.

3. Apply the solution

Use the mold killer spray solution onto the affected tiles and grout, and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes.

4. Scrub the tiles and grout

Using a stiff-bristle brush or an old toothbrush, scrub the mold and mildew from the tiles and grout.

5. Rinse the area

Rinse the tiles and grout with clean water, then dry thoroughly with a clean cloth.

6. Reapply if necessary

If mold or mildew persists, repeat the process until the area is immaculate.

7. Seal the grout

Once the grout is clean and dry, consider applying a grout sealer to prevent future mold growth.

Hire Professional Mold Remediation Services

While DIY methods can be effective for minor issues, hiring experts is crucial when dealing with extensive mold growth or when it has penetrated the structure of your home. Professionals have the expertise, equipment, and experience to safely and effectively remove and prevent it from returning.

Facing a severe mold problem? Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t hesitate to contact a professional mold remediation service like United Restoration. No one knows how to clean mold better than us! Feel free to contact us and let us know how we can help today.