19 Dec Great Tips On How to Get Rid of Mold in Your House
It can be very alarming to find moldy spots in your basement or shower. Although a small amount of mold won’t cause you to become sick, knowing how to remove it and prevent it from growing can help keep it from becoming an even bigger problem.
It’s important to get rid of mold as soon as possible. If it remains untreated, it can spread to larger areas. It can cause damage to household items and trigger an allergic response.
Mold can be prevented from growing by keeping your bathroom dry and cool. However, even with all your best efforts, it can still grow in undesirable places. Here are the facts to help you if you find yourself in a moldy situation.
Do I have the ability to remove mold?
Although you can do it, mold spores can travel through the air and can be transmitted to other people. Protect yourself by wearing protective gear. Protect your hands and forearms with long rubber gloves.
Eye protection is also important, such as goggles or sunglasses, to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of bleach and other cleaners. This is especially true when you are removing mold from ceilings and overhead areas.
A bigger problem could indicate that there is more moisture. To have the mold safely removed, call a professional if it is large and covers more than 2×2 feet.
Is there a natural way to get rid of mold?
One of the following options is an option if you are looking for a natural way to get rid of mold. These solutions may take longer than bleach to remove stains.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Take a spray bottle, and pour the 3% solution into it. Let the solution sit for 10 minutes before spraying the area. Then scrub the mold off.
- Vinegar : Use a spray bottle to spray the affected area with undiluted vinegar. Allow it to sit for at least an hour, then rinse the area with water. Dry it off.
How to remove mold from grout and tile in showers
Shower grout and tile can be difficult to keep clean because of the warm and wet conditions that make them a prime breeding ground. You can remove small areas of mold with a grout cleaner, such as one of our favorites. Use a mold removal product or a bleach-and water solution.
- Apply the grout and let it penetrate the grout. In certain cases, scrubbing is not necessary.
How to get rid of mold from shower curtains and liners
- A mold and mildew spray can be used to remove mold from shower curtains or liners made of plastic. Spray on the stain and wait for it to disappear before rinsing off.
- You can also wash your plastic liner in the washing machine on the delicate cycle using warm water, detergent and bleach. It is best to wash the shower curtain in the warmest setting according to care instructions.
How to remove mold from ceilings and walls
The bad news is that porous surfaces, such as ceiling tiles, should be replaced. Good news: Mold can be stopped if it is found in small areas on plaster ceilings or walls made of sheetrock. Here’s how:
- Use a sponge or brush to clean the surface and allow it to dry completely.
- Use a water-bleach solution to make the bleach. Mix 3/4 cup chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of warm water. Rubber gloves are used to apply the water-bleach solution to the stain using a sponge or brush.
- Allow to sit for five minutes, rinse, then air dry.
How to remove mold from fabric
If left unattended, damp towels and gym clothes can become a breeding ground for mold. Here’s how you can get rid of mold from fabric items.
- Take the item outside and scrub off any excess mold. This will prevent mold spores getting into your home.
- Machine washable fabric: Use liquid laundry detergent to wash the fabric on the highest setting. Follow the care instructions for chlorine bleach or non-chlorine bleach.
- The mold can be removed by hand washing or dry cleaning if the fabric isn’t machine washable.
How to get rid of mold from wood
If there isn’t enough ventilation, mold can grow on wood cabinets in areas such as the kitchen where the humidity is higher from cooking and running the dishwasher.
If it is humid and there is not enough air circulation, mold can grow on wooden furniture and paneling. Follow these steps to remove mold from furniture, paneling and wood cabinets.
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- Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to vacuum any spores using the soft brush attachment.
- Then, mix a few drops of dish detergent, with a gallon of water and use a rag to apply the solution. You can use a rag to apply the solution, but not soak the surface.
- Next, use a clean cloth that has been dipped into clear water. Wipe the surface dry with a towel. The wood shouldn’t be left wet as this could cause damage to the finish.
How to stop mold growth from happening in the first place
The Environmental Protection Agency states that there is no way to eradicate all mold or mold spores from indoor environments. Instead, control moisture to reduce indoor mold growth. Mold can return even after you have cleaned it. To control mold growth, humidity levels should not exceed 50%.
Prevention is the best way to prevent mold growth. These tips will help you create an environment that mold cannot grow in.
- Install a dehumidifier to your home. To prevent humidity buildup, it is best to maintain indoor humidity between 30-50%. Make sure you get the right size for your home.
- To let water out, open the bathroom doors and windows or turn on the exhaust fan after and during showering.
- After showering, leave your shower curtain/liner open to dry it.
- Vent moisture-generating sources, such as bathrooms and clothes dryers to the outside.
- Do not store items in damp areas. This could mean moving linens and books out of your basement or attic.
- If you have tiling, seal the grout lines in your bathroom every year This will waterproof your floors and walls.