Nobody wants to see mold in their homes. It is an unsightly health hazard that damages wood, framing, drywall, tubs, and showers. Mold causes a host of health problems including allergic reactions like sneezing, runny nose and eyes, skin rashes, and asthma attacks. Mold should not be left to grow.
Mold is usually not difficult to eliminate when it is a small infestation. Use one of these natural mold killers to remove it as soon as you spot it.
Causes Of Mold
Mold spores are everywhere in the environment. They feed on any organic matter like wood, dust, soap scum, etc. All the spores need to start growing on a food source is the addition of water, moisture, or relative humidity over 60%.
Mold usually grows best in houses with many occupants. More showers, cooking, and breathing add excess moisture to the air. Poor ventilation, plumbing leaks, roof leaks, and other moisture sources also promote mold growth.
Natural Mold Killers
You usually have some of these natural mold killers in your home. They are inexpensive and effective when used properly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends professional mold removal for any infestations over 10 square feet or if mold has invaded HVAC systems.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an inexpensive fast-acting biodegradable mold killer. Pour or spray 3% hydrogen peroxide (available from most drug stores) directly onto the mold. Let it foam and work for 10 – 15 minutes–then wipe off the dead mold. Heavy mold infestations may require a second treatment and scrubbing with a soft bristle brush.
Never mix hydrogen peroxide and vinegar. The combination creates a toxic chemical–peracetic acid–that affects the skin, eyes, throat, and lungs.
Vinegar
White vinegar kills over 80% of the mold spores it contacts. Spray it undiluted directly onto the mold growth and let it sit for at least one hour to kill and dissolve the mold–then wipe off the mess.
The acetic acid in vinegar penetrates porous surfaces like wood and drywall to kill mold roots–preventing regrowth. You may need a soft bristle brush to clean the mold off porous surfaces. Do not rinse the vinegar off after removing the dead mold. The extra moisture may encourage mold regrowth and leaving residual vinegar prevents regrowth.
Lemon Juice
Mix the juice from about half a dozen lemons with an equal amount of water. Spray it onto the mold and let sit for 10 – 15 minutes. Remove the dead mold with a soft bristle brush or damp cloth. Dry thoroughly to remove any residual moisture. Most acidic citrus fruits will kill mold and make your home smell cleaner and fresher at the same time.
Baking Soda
Baking soda mixed with water and sprayed onto mold is a very effective cleaner. Let the solution sit on the mold for up to half an hour, then scrub it with a soft bristle brush and wipe the area clean with a damp microfiber cloth. Baking soda is a natural disinfectant that leaves no odor. You can also substitute vinegar instead of water for a stronger cleaner.
To clean grout or stubborn mold, mix the baking soda and water into a paste and apply with a toothbrush or soft bristle brush.
Tea Tree Oil
Mix two teaspoons of tea tree oil into two cups of water and spray on mold infestations. Let it work for about 10 – 15 minutes, then wipe up the mess. Do not rinse. Tea tree oil is a natural fungicide that kills mold and mildew and prevents regrowth. The strong odor dissipates in a couple of days, but it is more pleasant than the smell of vinegar.
Bleach
Bleach is last on this list because it is a harsh chemical that can be dangerous to use. It should only be used on mold while wearing personal protective equipment including a respirator. Bleach kills mold on non-porous surfaces. The residue must be scraped off and disposed of. Bleach will not penetrate porous materials like drywall, wood, granite, or carpets.
Mix one cup of bleach into a gallon of water to kill mold. Open windows and doors. Wear rubber gloves and goggles while using bleach on the mold.
Mold Prevention
Preventing mold and mildew growth is preferable to having to scrub it off. Mold requires an organic food source and moisture to grow. Mold spores are everywhere and remain dormant until enough moisture is added to the environment to promote growth. Here are some tips to help keep your home mold-free.
- Humidity. Ideal humidity levels inside a house are between 30% and 50%. Mold thrives when the humidity is over 60%. Use a dehumidifier to help keep the humidity low.
- Water Leaks. Water leaks–in basements, under sinks, around windows and doors, or inside walls cause mold growth. Repair any leaks as soon as you find them.
- Ventilation. The air in moist areas like bathrooms and kitchens should be exhausted outside. Bath fans should run during showers and for at least 30 minutes afterward. Kitchen fans should exhaust the steam from cooking. If you do not have fans, make sure that the windows are open to promote natural air circulation.
- Dry Surfaces. Wipe showers and sinks dry after each use to reduce household moisture.
