It can be overwhelming to find out that you have mold in your house. It could be the telltale stifling odor in the basement or the spots that are actually growing on the bathroom walls, but either way, mold can be more than an eyesore, it can also be a significant health and structural hazard to your home.
Just because you have a mold situation does not mean you have to call in costly professionals. Many homeowners are able to resolve a problem of mold effectively on their own, with the right products and knowledge. Whether it’s a natural solution that incorporates what you already have in your pantry or a potent commercial cleaner needed to combat an intractable infestation, you can find a product to combat molds about any situation or budget.
This article will help you find the most effective mold removal products in the market today and help you select the best solution based on your needs, safety considerations and severity of your mold problem. Please note that we never recommend DIY mold removal. According to an expert black mold removal company in Boynton Beach, DIY mold removal can be really dangerous for your health and it can even make the problem worse.
Getting Familiar with Your Mold Problem.
It is important to evaluate what you are handling before you plunge into product recommendations. Different cases of molds are not equal and the indiscriminate use of a certain solution may sometimes aggravate the situation.
Mold on non-porous surfaces such as tile, glass, or metal may often be easier to manage than mold that has reached porous surfaces such as drywall, wood, or fabric. When the mold area is over 10 square feet or when the source of the mold is contaminated water, the EPA advises using the services of professionals.
In the smaller space and on superficial mold, the correct products will be able to restore your space safely and effectively.
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Natural Mold Fighting Solutions.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is one of the easiest to use and efficient natural mold fighters. Its acetic acid can kill up to 82% of the mold species, so it is a very effective primary line of attack on many homeowners.
Spray undiluted white vinegar on surfaces that are moldy. Allow a minimum one hour to allow it to soak and then brush them off. The vinegar smell is short-lived, and leaves a clean surface.
Baking Soda
Baking soda does not act in the same way as vinegar, it takes up moisture and removes odors and simultaneously scrubs against mold. Combine 1/4 tablespoon of baking soda, and water together in a spray bottle and shake until all is dissolved and then spray onto moldy areas.
Rinse in water and spray again after scrubbing the area. Allow the last application to dry and the rest of the baking soda will help prevent any future molds.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Most medicine cabinets contain 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties that make it useful in removing mold. It is also quite effective on porous surfaces which other cleaners in such cases may not penetrate as well.
Spray hydrogen peroxide onto the affected spot of the mold and allow it to dry in 10 minutes before scrubbing and wiping. It should first be tested on a non-critical surface since hydrogen peroxide can make some materials bleach.
Commercial Mold Removal Products.
Chlorine Bleach Solutions
Bleach is also a powerful mold remover especially on non-porous surfaces. EPA recognizes bleach as an efficient killer of molds, but with significant usage requirements.
To make a good mold fighting solution, combine one gallon of water with one cup of bleach.
Borax-Based Cleaners
Prepare a solution of borax, one cup of borax and one gallon of water. Apply to dampened areas, scrub and dry. You do not have to rinse borax to empty like other solutions; however, leaving some is beneficial to prevent future molds.
Antimicrobial Sprays
Specific antimicrobial sprays against molds are commercially available and are convenient and specific in their action. Concrobium Mold Control and other products operate by stomping dry mold spores, destroying existing mold and deterring future growth.
Most of these products do not need to be scrubbed, and can be used on a vast range of surfaces. Use as directed, since application varies by product.
Different Area Products.
Bathroom Mold Removers
Bathrooms also pose their own problems because of moisture exposure at all times. Find tile and grout and shower specific products. Popular products include Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover and CLR Bath and Kitchen Cleaner, which combines an ingredient to kill mold with surfactants to infiltrate a layer of soap scum and dirt.
Crawl Space and Basement Solutions.
Solutions usually need to be more robust in the basement because of the increased moisture content and concrete or wooden areas. Solutions such as Mold Stat Plus bring together cleaning solutions and long term protection to be used in areas where moisture problems tend to recur.
HVAC System Cleaners
Heating and cooling systems can harbor mold which will be specific to products which are intended to be used in ductwork and air handling units. HVAC systems can be safely treated by using EPA-registered products such as BioCide 100 without damage to equipment or reduction in air quality.
Protective Equipment and Safety.
Provide proper ventilation by opening windows and operating fans to blow away the air in the work area. Certain people with weakened immune systems, extreme allergies or respiratory disorders should not attempt to remove the mold at all and have a professional do it instead.
Air Purifiers
Mold spores can spread in the air and these particles are so tiny that you inhale these spores without seeing them with your naked eye. The best device to protect you from indoor air pollutants is an air purifier. All air purifiers are not the same. Nowadays, air purifiers like V3 by triad are popular in the USA as they have advanced technology. These air purifiers are also recommended by healthcare professionals and certified mold inspectors.