How to Remove Mold From Walls
When blotches of mold appear on walls, you can often remove them using household products. Some common methods include detergent, vinegar and baking soda.
You can also use diluted chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide on non-porous surfaces such as tile and glass. Be sure to wear protective gloves and a mask while applying these cleaners.
1. Clean the Area
Mold needs two things to grow: moisture and organic material, which it can feed on. It can be found in all kinds of areas, including the walls of homes and other buildings. If you find mould on your wall, it is important to clean it and eliminate the moisture source to prevent further damage.
Using chemicals to remove mold can be dangerous, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully and wear proper protection. You should also keep the area well ventilated during cleaning.
If you have a small area of mold on a non-porous surface, you can use standard bleach (sodium hypochlorite) to clean it. Mix 3/4 of a cup of bleach with one gallon of water, then apply it to the affected area with a sponge or brush. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then scrub. Rinse and dry the area. For larger areas, you can try 3% hydrogen peroxide, which is usually kept in first-aid kits and works as an effective mold remover.
2. Seal the Area
If the moldy area is on non-porous material, such as painted drywall, the spores can be killed and encapsulated with a biocide. This is an EPA-approved liquid that kills the mold spores and prevents them from returning.
Before applying the biocide, scrub the surface to break up and loosen the mold. This will help the cleaner penetrate and kill it. Once the cleaner has been applied, let it soak. If necessary, scrub it again to ensure that the mold is dead.
While you work, place a fan in front of the mold spot to draw air from the room and push it outside. Also, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to collect and dispose of the mold spores as you go. Be sure to collect all materials you used to clean the spot and double-bag them for disposal. Lastly, cover return vents and heating and air conditioning vents in the room where you’re working. This will control the spread of spores throughout your home while you’re cleaning.
3. Remove the Mold
Although mold is all around us in the form of fungus like that found on decaying leaves or cheese, most types aren’t dangerous. However, some varieties such as toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) can cause respiratory issues in people who are sensitive to it.
If you find spores growing in your home, it’s important to take action immediately. First, you’ll want to figure out why the spores are there and fix the problem to prevent future growth. You’ll also need to throw away porous materials such as drywall and carpet that are affected.
Next, you’ll need to remove the spores. Use a biocide, which is an EPA-approved liquid that kills the mold and prevents it from coming back. Mix the biocide with water in a spray bottle and apply it to the affected area of your walls. If you’re dealing with painted drywall, this step is less complicated since the paint acts as a barrier that protects the underlying surface.
4. Clean Up
Mold spores can be carried through the air by humans, pets and even plants, so it’s important to take steps to prevent them from spreading inside. This includes maintaining a routine that reduces humidity levels in the home, keeping plant and animal life away from the house and removing outdoor items that could be carrying mold spores into the house.
Mold on walls is more than just unsightly; it can also eat through building materials and cause health problems for family members. Therefore, it’s essential to clean and get rid of mold growth as soon as possible.
If you have a large surface area of mold growth, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide (available at most drug stores) and water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected areas. The solution will fizz and work to kill mold spores. This solution will also remove any stains caused by mold if used before the mold grows too much and can be applied with a scrub brush or sponge.