Black mold can be a big problem in your home. Not only can it cause health issues, but it can be hard to clean up. Learn how to remove black mold safely using do-it-yourself and commercial methods. And, if in doubt about your black mold problem, call a professional.
What Is Black Mold?
Mold happens all over your home and car. This is especially true if moisture has been left unchecked. While all molds are a problem, black mold gets a very bad rap. Why? Because black mold (aka Stachybotrys chartarum) is associated with potential health risks.
Dangers Associated With Mold
While the Center for Disease control notes health symptoms can be nonspecific, those with breathing and asthma issues can experience a runny nose, coughing, and skin rash along with other severe reactions. If you are immune-compromised or have lung or breathing problems, leave the black mold removal to the professionals.
Safety Precautions for Black Mold
If you've decided to handle black mold on your own, it's important to take some precautions to minimize your exposure to the mold.
- Wear long sleeves and pants or a body covering to cover exposed skin.
- Get a respirator to avoid breathing in mold spores.
- Wear goggles to protect your eyes.
- Use rubber gloves for hand protection.
Mold Removal Preparation
Mold needs moisture. Therefore, you need to find the source of moisture to get rid of the problem. So, you must figure out where the moisture is coming from and fix this as well. The source could be a leaky pipe, fixture, or faucet. Find and tighten or replace the problem area. Additionally, you'll need to close up the area covered in mold so mold spores do not travel into other areas of your home as you clean.
How to Remove Black Mold Naturally
DIY mold treatments work well for small areas of mold infestation. For large areas, it's advised to consult a professional. For black mold removal, you need:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Dawn
- Spray bottle
- Tea tree oil
- Grapefruit seed oil
- Scrub brush
- Cloth
How to Remove Black Mold From Walls With Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a great mold killer, but it can have a bleaching effect. Therefore, this method is best on white areas. For this mold-removing method:
- Pour straight hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle.
- Spray it on the mold.
- Leave for 30 minutes.
- Add Dawn and baking soda to a scrub brush and scrub the area.
- Use a cloth to wipe away the stains.
- Repeat if needed.
How to Remove Black Mold From Surfaces With Vinegar
The acidic nature of vinegar works well to break down mold, including black mold, on surfaces. It's also gentle enough to use on walls and floors.
- Fill a spray bottle with vinegar.
- Spray down the area thoroughly.
- Leave the vinegar for an hour or two.
- Coat the area again.
- Add Dawn to a scrub brush and scrub the area.
- Wipe down with a cloth.
- Repeat as needed.
Black Mold Removal With Essential Oils
Two essential oils that are effective on mold include tea tree oil and grapefruit seed oil. For this mold cleaning method:
- Mix 2 cups of warm water and 2 teaspoons of either tea tree oil or grapefruit seed oil.
- Shake well and spray the area down.
- Allow that to sit for 20-30 minutes.
- Scrub the area with a bristle brush.
- Wipe the area down with a cloth.
- Spray down again and leave the area.
Commercial Black Mold Removal Products
Rather than natural methods, you can try to use commercial cleaners like chemical mold and mildew removers, all-purpose cleaners, and bleach. When using these cleaners, it is pivotal to follow the cleaning instructions found on the bottle and use them in a ventilated area.
Disinfecting After Mold Removal
Mold spores can attach to you and travel to other areas of your home. Therefore, directly after cleaning mold, you need to remove your clothing, goggles, gloves, etc. and place them in a trash bag. You can either immediately wash and disinfect them or trash them.
How to Avoid Black Mold
One of the best ways to avoid having to clean black mold and costly repairs is to not get it in the first place. To fight getting black mold in your home, try these tips.
- Immediately dry wet areas.
- Keep an eye on humidity in your house.
- Fix problem leaks quickly
- Install mold-resistant products.
- Use fans and other measures to improve airflow in your house.
Know When to Call a Professional
When you are trying a DIY mold removal method, if you happen to notice the problem is bigger than expected, call a professional immediately. Professional mold removal might cost a bit more upfront, but it can save you larger black mold issues in the future.
Keeping Black Mold at Bay
Black mold can be a big problem within your home. However, there are ways you can combat it without toxic chemicals. Just remember to keep yourself geared up and safe when handling a black mold infestation.
