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The Best Mold-Killing Products
The Best Mold-Killing Products. Mold spores are everywhere in our environment, both indoors and out. Mold may begin to grow inside our homes when spores land on areas that remain moist. Homeowners must clean up any mold they find growing in their homes because mold exposure has been linked with serious health effects, such as allergic reactions....
Mold spores are everywhere in our environment, both indoors and out. Mold may begin to grow inside our homes when spores land on areas that remain moist. Homeowners must clean up any mold they find growing in their homes because mold exposure has been linked with serious health effects, such as allergic reactions. The Center for Disease Control provides guidelines regarding the best way to kill mold and which products remove mold spores quickly and efficiently.
Preparation
Mold is dangerous and must be cleaned up and removed if it is growing inside your home. Mold testing is not usually recommended because the Environmental Protection Agency states that all types of mold should be removed, regardless of its toxicity. When preparing to clean up mold, open a window to increase air circulation and don't allow anyone with respiratory diseases or allergies to remain in the work area. Removing mold often causes mold spores to become airborne, making asthma symptoms worse. Reduce skin exposure to mold by wearing rubber gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Goggles will protect your eyes while you clean up mold.
Detergent
Mold can be removed from most surfaces with a combination of detergent and water, according to the University of Florida, IFAS Extension. Combine laundry detergent or liquid dish soap with water and place it in a bucket. Spray the area to be cleaned lightly with water to keep mold spores from becoming airborne. Scrub the mold away with the detergent solution and a scrub brush, drying thoroughly when finished to prevent mold regrowth.
Bleach
When mold growth is heavy, the Center for Disease Control recommends cleaning the area with chlorine bleach. Combine no more than 1 cup of chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of water. Wash the mold-covered item with this solution or place it on the mold and scrub with a brush. Rinse the area or item thoroughly with clean water when mold is gone. Dry the area or item completely to avoid mold regrowth.
Considerations
While chlorine bleach kills mold growing on surfaces, it can be dangerous if used improperly. Never combine chlorine bleach with other products such as acid or ammonia, as this may create toxic fumes. For safety reasons mix chlorine bleach only with water. If porous material such as carpet requires mold removal, remove it and replace it. Any porous material that remains wet for 48 hours or more should be removed and replaced to avoid mold-related complications.
