Unfortunately, black mold is something most homeowners deal with at one point or another, especially those who live in more humid climates. Dealing with mold can be challenging, as it spreads rapidly and often grows out of sight.
There are numerous commercial products on the market that are specifically manufactured for mold removal, but nearly all of them contain harmful chemicals that are often as dangerous as the mold itself. As we’ve mentioned in some of our other blogs, toxic chemicals found in mainstream cleaning products come with a long list of negative health effects.
So, what do you do when you’re faced with mold? Here are 5 ways to naturally remove mold without exposing yourself to toxic chemicals.
Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective and natural way to treat mold, due to it’s antifungal, antiviral, and anti-bacterial properties. Though it’s safe and useful on all surfaces, from kitchen appliances to wall surfaces, it’s especially effective in removing mold from porous materials, like woven furniture.
To use as a mold removing solution, simply mix one part of 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts of water in a spray bottle. Thoroughly saturate the affected area with the solution and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, scrub the area to remove the black mold and stains. Once everything has been removed, wipe the area dry with a microfiber cloth or towel. To prevent any discoloration or furniture damage, be sure to first test the solution out on a small area.
Use Vinegar
White vinegar isn’t just great for daily home cleaning, but also for mold removal. It’s antibacterial, acidic properties can clean, deodorize, and thoroughly disinfect. Studies have shown that white vinegar can kill 82% of mold species on porous and non-porous surfaces.
To remove mold using vinegar, pour some undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle. Or, you can pour the vinegar right onto the moldy surface! Do not dilute with water, as doing so will make it less effective. Once the vinegar has been applied to the moldy surface, let it sit for an hour. Then, scrub the area with a damp cloth or towel. If there’s any stubborn areas, scrub it with an old toothbrush. Finally, let the surface dry. The smell of vinegar will fade shortly after!
Use Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is another green cleaning favorite that has so many awesome properties. It’s antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antiviral properties make it a highly effective mold removal that also prevents mold spores from returning. It’s also safe to use on most surfaces.
To use as a mold removing solution, combine one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Shake well before thoroughly spraying the moldy area. Let the solution sit for an hour, and then wipe the area down with a microfiber cloth or towel.
Use Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can be used as a natural bleach, stain remover, cleaner, deodorizer, and even a mold remover. The acidic properties of lemons can break down and remove the mold, while also thoroughly disinfecting the surface. Lemon also leaves behind a wonderful citrus smell!
Thoroughly squeeze three to five lemons over the moldy area. Let it sit for at least five minutes before gently scrubbing the problem area with a damp towel. As mentioned above, if there are any stubborn problem areas that need a little more work, you can scrub them with a toothbrush.
It’s important to note that for significant cases of mold, lemon might not be the most effective weapon. However, to add some more strength to the concoction, mix a little bit of dish soap and water with the lemon juice.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda has multiple uses around the house, from absorbing fridge odors to whitening your teeth. It’s also an effective way to remove and prevent black mold, as it kills it and absorbs the moisture that attracts it. Baking soda also works great on all surfaces.
To remove mold using baking soda, create a 50/50 mixture of baking soda and water until it forms a paste. Apply the paste to the problem areas and use a toothbrush to scrub the moldy areas. Then, combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 cups of water, and shake well. Lightly douse the previously affected area and let dry to prevent the growth of future mold.
Use Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract isn’t just great for healthcare remedies, but also for cleaning solutions. Grapefruit seed extract contains something called polyphenols and naringenin, which help kill bacteria, disinfect, and sterilize. When used to treat mold, the acid penetrates deep into the problem area, removing and preventing mold spores from returning.
To use as a mold remover, simply combine 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Thoroughly douse the area with the solution, and let sit for at least 10 minutes. The exact duration varies depending on how severe the mold is. After it has set for a while, scrub and wipe the area down with a damp microfiber cloth or towel.
Ensure Your Mold is Thoroughly Removed With Our Green Cleaning Services in Kauai!
Dealing with mold can be challenging, and it’s important to ensure that all of the mold spores have been thoroughly removed to protect you and your family. That’s why our team would love to be of assistance.
Our professional green cleaning services in Kauai will ensure that any mold is completely removed from your property without the use of any harsh chemicals. We also offer a number of other services that all ensure that your property is properly taken care of. Call us today at (808) 652-5391 to schedule your property care service!
