Mold and Mildew Removal The Right Way

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Mold and mildew on a non-porous surface such as tile can be cleaned with DIY methods. Deep spreading on porous surfaces requires a professional.

If you start seeing unsightly sots growing on your walls or smell musty odors, you might be dealing with a mold or mildew problem. To prevent mold issues, you need proper ventilation and avoid moisture by monitoring humidity indoors. But if it's too late and you already have a mold or mildew problem, you need to know how to clean. You can quickly get rid of mold or mildew on the affected areas, but it depends on how severe the effects are. Mold and mildew are basically the same; the only difference in the cleaning technique will be determined by the affected surfaces. Read on for mold and mildew removal essential tips.

When to Call a Professional

You are actually exposed to mold spores all the time, both outdoors and indoors, and that is mainly not a cause for concern. But when the right environment occurs and they start to grow and spread in your home, they may force you to call a professional. DIY is effective when the mold effects are not too severe. But there are instances when you need expert help with mold remediation. If you smell the mold but can't find the affected area, you may need to call a professional.

You also need to call a professional when you live with someone with severe allergies. Also, if the mold is creating structural problems that are way out of your skills, seek help. When you catch the mold early, you can use a cup of bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda to kill mold. But if it's a large colony of mold or mildew, you will need more aggressive chemicals and cleaning methods. That is when you should call a professional.

Mold and Mildew Removal on Different Surfaces

Cleaning non-porous and porous surfaces will have a slight difference. Learning how to remove mold on different surfaces will ensure your DIY cleaning is a success. You should always wear protective gloves, goggles, and a respirator.

Cleaning Mold off Grout and Tiles

The bathroom is very notorious when it comes to mold issues because of the humidity. For effective mildew removal, you need a solution of sixteen parts water and one part bleach. There are so many products in the market for cleaning, but water and chlorine bleach are equally effective.

After applying the solution to the affected surface, wait for fifteen to twenty minutes. You can then use a gentle bristled brush to scrub the place. Rinse the surface with clean water and dry it with a cloth. You should keep the area ventilated by opening the windows and allow to air dry.

Cleaning Mold off Fabric

You can wash mold away on washable fabric. If the clothing is still stained after washing, you will have to use oxygen, bleach, and hot water. Soak the cloth in a solution of oxygen bleach and water and leave it for several hours. If the fabric is dry clean only, you will have to take the material to professional cleaners. But first, brush the fabric to get rid of all the visible mold and mildew.

Cleaning Mold Off Wood

Wood surfaces, walls, or floors can be affected by mold and mildew. For easy mildew removal, you can start by vacuuming the area because it helps loosen the spores. Use warm water and mild liquid dish detergent to scrub the affected wooden area. You can use a bristled brush to scrub while constantly dipping it into the water and soap solution. This cleaning method will work best if the wood is painted or stained because the mold and mildew cannot penetrate the surface.

If the wood is not painted or stained, you will need vinegar. Mix equal parts of the warm water and vinegar and use a spray bottle to apply the solution to the affected wood surface. Let it sit for an hour before you wipe it off. Use a towel to ensure the wood is as dry as possible. Ensure you get rid of all the dirt to avoid mold stains. You can use borax when you don’t have vinegar.

Cleaning Mold off Furniture

Try to remove as much visible mold and mildew on the furniture’s surface as possible. Try using a damp cloth to wipe the surface before you start the cleaning. It will help you get rid of spores so that your work later becomes a little easier. Take dish soap or mild detergent soap and mix it with water. The water can be warm if you want; mix the solution until you have enough foam. You can use the solution to clean the furniture with a cloth or gentle brush.

It would be best to do furniture cleaning on a sunny day. Move your furniture outside and remove the mold and mildew outside. After cleaning, leave the furniture under the sun to dry, ensure it's completely dry before you move the furniture back inside. You can use a leather conditioner to treat the affected surfaces after cleaning. You may need to replace the furniture entirely if the mold is deeper into the cushions.

Cleaning Mold off Carpets

A substantial amount of mold and mildew on your wool or silk carpet may need professional cleaning. But if it's a small area that is affected, you can do it yourself. Every time you are using bleach to remove mildew, wear your protective gear. But if the carpet loses color, stay away from bleach. Isolate the carpet to ensure the mold will not spread to other parts. Use a vacuum or a stiff brush to remove visible mold spores.

Scrub the affected areas with cleaners and allow them to air dry. It may take a day or two for the carpet to dry completely. Once you are confident the affected area is not damp anymore, you can return the rug to where it was. To be safe, clean the floors thoroughly to avoid another mold issue with the carpet.

Cleaning Mold off Outdoor Surfaces

Patio stones, unpainted cement, and other outdoor surfaces can be affected by mold and mildew. When this happens, you will need a thorough scrubbing using chlorine bleach and water. Mix a gallon of water with at least one cup of bleach. Use a stiff brush because most of the outdoor surfaces are hard. You also need to be vigorous to avoid mold stain.

Chlorine bleach can harm your lawn, garden, or any plant. You have to be extra cautious when using bleach to clean outdoor surfaces. Cover any plants that may be affected before you clean the mold off. After scrubbing the surfaces with water and bleach, rinse them with clean water.

Conclusion

Mold and mildew issues can be very frustrating. You have to always keep an eye out if you want to win the war against mold. When you catch the issue early, you won't have to call a professional mold remover. Mold removal will be a breeze when you know how to handle different surfaces.