The homes we live in are built with the best intentions. They provide us with a comfortable living space and protect us from the outside elements. However, when problems happen it is crucial that we know what the best methods are to remedy them. In this post we will cover 3 Essential Tips You Need for DIY Mold Cleaning.
3 Essential DIY Mold Cleaning Tips You Can Use
Not all mold is dangerous. Even though mold can start forming within 8 hours of a water event, small amounts of mold can be easily cleaned up. Below are a few cleaning tips to help anyone out who finds mold on personal belongings, below the sink or in the shower.
Tip 1. When Cleaning Mold, Use Bleach…With Caution
When mold is growing on non-porous surfaces, using a bleach and water mixture is a great solution (pun intended!) for a DIY’er.
The suggested amount is 1 cup of chlorine bleach per every 1 gallon of water. Using this mixture is best when mold is found on surfaces like a shower doors, windows, ceramic tile, bathtubs and counter tops.
Bleach doesn’t work well on porous materials like drywall, popcorn ceilings, carpet and wood structures. A bleach mixture may kill surface mold, but the fungal growth deeper into the pores of drywall or wood won’t be affected, and mold growth may return.
Tip 2. Never Mix Bleach With Ammonia!
Safety is critical. If you are cleaning mold yourself, be cautious. Never mix bleach or bleach-containing products with ammonia or ammonia-containing products.
Mixing bleach and ammonia is very dangerous, since toxic vapors will be produced. The main toxic chemical formed by the reaction is chloramine vapor, which has the potential to form hydrazine.
Tips 3. Clothes With Mold Can Be Cleaned
If you find mold growth on clothing, don’t immediately toss them. Clothing items exposed to mold can be washed as normal. Check the labels on clothes and linens and wash them in detergent and warm water if possible.
If you don’t feel comfortable washing them yourself, another option is to take them them to a professional cleaner.
Adding chlorine bleach to the wash cycle will remove most mildew and will sanitize the clothing. Bleach may fade some fabrics or damage other fabrics. For labels that read “dry clean only” take the item to a professional cleaner.
For clothing that continues to smell, consider discarding those items. These three tips won’t fix major mold issues, but they are a great start to anyone who finds mold and has a DIY attitude.
If more than 25 sq. ft. of visible mold is found, a professional is always recommended.
Mold questions? Visit our Facebook page or give us a call if you’d like more information at: 940-898-0861
