Mold elimination can be done with non-toxic substances such as vinegar and lemon juice. Heat should be used to kill mold and evaporate moisture. Preventing mold is preferable, achieved by keeping the room warm, dry, and well-ventilated. Mold should never be painted, plastered, tiled, or wallpapered.
Mold elimination is a relatively simple process and a number of techniques can be used to eliminate mold. The problem is that when the mold is dead, the spores can still survive, causing the mold to reappear within days or weeks. Therefore, in addition to killing mold, people who want to get rid of mold will need to take some additional actions to prevent recurrence.
For people concerned about using harsh chemicals in cleaning, the good news is that mold can be eliminated with non-toxic substances common in many homes. Vinegar, lemon juice, and other acids are great for killing mold, and you can also use a solution of tea tree oil or grapefruit seed extract in water to kill mold, adding about 20 drops for every two cups of water. Bleach is generally not recommended for killing mold, as it can cause staining problems on non-white items.
To get rid of existing mold, spray vinegar or one of the solutions listed above on the moldy area and let it soak in briefly before cleaning. Then, heat the area, because the heat kills the mold and evaporates the moisture, depriving the mold of the water it needs to grow back. In the case of something that can go in a washing machine, such as curtains or clothing, mold can be eliminated by washing with a cup of vinegar and drying on high heat.
To prevent recurrence after mold has cleared away, the area should be kept warm and the humidity should be low. Using a dehumidifier can help in particularly humid climates, as can opening doors and windows for cross-ventilation. Area rugs and furniture that have become moldy can be treated with a liquid solution and then taken outside on a sunny day to kill the mold and its associated spores. If you have moldy drywall, flooring, and other fixtures, you may need to remove and replace the fixture to prevent a recurrence after you’ve removed the mold.
Preventing mold is definitely preferable to killing it, because even after mold is dead, it can leave unsightly stains, and the presence of mold in your home can negatively impact human health. Mold prevention can be achieved by keeping the room warm and dry to inhibit mold growth and by ensuring rooms are well ventilated. Mold should never be painted, plastered, tiled or wallpapered, because mold will continue to flourish under the siding, creating a distinctive stain and distributing the spores to the rest of the house.
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