Sunday, March 17, 2024

Can Bleach Get Rid Of Black Mold

Does Bleach Kill Black Mold The Answer May Surprise You

How to remove and kill mold – Bleach vs vinegar

How helpful is bleach in killing black mold? Most are not sure about the answer. This post helps you understand if bleach is really effective in killing black mold.

How helpful is bleach in killing black mold? Most are not sure about the answer. This post helps you understand if bleach is really effective in killing black mold.

Black mold infestation can be a bane on the lives of most people, especially those who happen to live in moist and humid climates. This slimy, greenish-black substance can be found growing in areas which harbor dampness and moisture. These might include ceiling tiles, bathroom tiles, shower heads, sink, basement, and damped wood to name a few. It is also not surprising to see it growing on clothes made of cotton, or leather goods. It is not the unsightly appearance of the black mold that is a matter of concern, but the several unpleasant symptoms which occur because of the exposure to the mold. What makes black mold toxic is its byproduct called mycotoxins. These substances are so small in size that they can get airborne, and make their way into humans and pets, giving rise to bouts of medical problems. One of the accepted and popular methods to abate black mold has been the use of the household chlorine bleach. But does bleach actually help in killing these toxic fungi? Let us know about it as we continue to read further.

The Dangers Of Black Mold: What Causes It How To Clean It And Prevent It

Black mold is very common in buildings and homes, especially around this time of the year, and it can be extremely hard to remove. It grows in places where there is a lot of moisture, such as windows and pipes, around leaks in roofs or where there has been flooding.

Besides being unpleasant to look at, mold can also cause many health problems. People with asthma or who are allergic to mold may have severe reactions, and immune-compromised people, as well as people with chronic lung disease, can develop lung infections.

To avoid mold, humidity levels at home should be kept between 30 percent and 50 percent, rooms should be ventilated and leaks should be addressed. If your home has been infested by mold and you’re struggling to clean it up, these top tips by professional cleaners may help.

Hydrogen Peroxide Is A Non

If you want to obtain a similar result against black mold as you would using bleach, you can use hydrogen peroxide. In an empty spray bottle, combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Spray the mixture onto the mold, and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Then, use a sponge to clean the surface and remove any leftover mixture, and youre done!

Read Also: What Causes Mold In Attic

Benefits Of Hiring Professional Mold Remediators

  • They discover all of the mold in your place visible and hidden mold
  • They have the proper equipment to remove all of the mold and mold spores in a speedy and efficient manner.
  • They can find and eliminate the source of mold even in porous materials.
  • They can make sure the future growth of mold is prevented.
  • They repair any damage and thoroughly clean the contaminated space.
  • They are quick and efficient they can also save you time and money but making sure all of the mold is removed the first time

If you have mold in your home and dont want to take the time to try and do it yourself or simply want to make sure it is done correctly the first time, give Home Healthy Homes a call for your mold remediation needs.

Can You Kill Black Mold Using Bleach

Does Bleach Get Rid of Mold?

Black mold, just like any other mold, forms mostly in areas with high humidity. Your bathroom walls and the tiles around your bathtub are fine examples of that. When you start noticing little black spots on the grout between the tiles, thats black mold.

You could use bleach to remove it off normal surfaces, and that will work perfectly fine. But when the mold starts developing on porous surfaces, you cant kill it using bleach alone. On such surfaces, the mold will be able to spread its roots deep into it, making it difficult to reach. Bleach, however, will only be able to clean the surface.

If you start having black mold on your ceramic tiles, you could use bleach to clean the mold. But if the mold appears on wood, grout and other surfaces with millions of tiny holes, you need something stronger than bleach to tackle it. Keep reading to learn how to use bleach and other cleaners to remove black mold.

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Bleach Can Contribute To Further Mold Growth

Bleach is made up of about 90 percent water. Moreover, since molds thrive with moisture, spraying bleach on mold can contribute to further mold growth, especially on porous surfaces.

Once you apply bleach to mold on a porous surface, the chlorine content of the beach dries up almost immediately, leaving behind the water content to be absorbed into the wood or any other absorbent material. The water travels down to the root of the mold and helps it thrive. This is why mold problems often become worse a few days after bleach is applied.

Applying bleach on mold may even cause mold to grow in surrounding areas that were previously unaffected.

How To Remove Mold From Wood Furniture

Here are a few steps to help you get rid of mold from your wood furniture.

  • Step 1: Wear Protective ClothingCover your face and hands to avoid mold spores.
  • Step 2: Take the Furniture OutdoorsTo avoid the mold from spreading indoors, take the affected furniture outside for cleaning.
  • Step 3: Spraying the Affected AreasSunlight will prove useful in fighting light mold. You can use vodka to spray the affected areas as you scrub. You may also spray the problematic areas with vinegar and allow it to sit in.
  • Step 4: ScrubAfter spraying the mold areas with vinegar or vodka. Scrub the area with soap, warm water, and a scrub brush. After scrubbing, wipe the area with a damp towel and let it dry.

Read Also: How Much Does It Cost To Have Mold Removed

Why We Dont Recommend Bleach For Mold Removal

  • Bleach doesnt kill all mold. Big bleach companies have promised that nothing else will do the job of removing mold only their bleach. Yes, it is great for disinfecting, and they work to remove mold in impermeable, hard surfaces like bathtub, shower surrounds or tiles. However, in porous and semi-porous surfaces like drywall or hardwood floors, it will not work and can actually contribute negatively to certain mold problems.
  • Bleach can weaken the wood. Chlorine bleach is extremely harmful to wood and many other surfaces. If bleach is applied on wood, it will weaken the wood by breaking down its fibers. This can create further problems with the structure of the home.
  • Mixing Bleach with ammonia creates deadly gas. According to Washington State Department of Health Toxic gases called chloramines are produced when you mix bleach with ammonia. Once exposed, they symptoms such as coughing, nausea, chest pain, watery eyes, and shortness of breath.
  • Bleach is toxic. Bleach is corrosive, considered as a toxic chemical and classified the same as gasoline.
  • Bleach is harmful to your skin. Exposure to bare skin creates a hydrolysis reaction which means the oily feeling on the top of the layer of your skin starts to dissolve.
  • What to Doto Kill Mold

    EPA RegisteredProduct

    How To Clean Mould With Vinegar

    DONT USE BLEACH! How to kill black mold safely!

    To clean mould and mildew and kill their spores you will need white distilled vinegar the cheapest brand from the supermarket will do just fine.

    • Mix 1 part of vinegar with 1 part water and pour into a spray bottle.
    • Apply the solution onto the mouldy area and leave it to sit for one hour.
    • Wipe the surface with damp cloth to rinse the acidic solution.
    • Allow the area to dry completely. If there is a vinegar smell dont worry it will disappear within a few hours.

    Vinegar is very efficient for mould removal especially in the areas where you prepare or store food. If you need to clean slightly mouldy clothes, soak them in warm water and add a few tablespoons of white distilled vinegar.

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    Bottom Line: How To Get Rid Of Mold In Shower

    Mold is dealt with every day and is caused by inadequate ventilation, humidity, and moisture in bathrooms. However, you can use mold-specific cleaning products, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or a white vinegar solution to get rid of mold in the shower. You can prevent mold by keeping your bathroom dry, well-ventilated, and clean! If these tips and methods don’t work, contact mold cleaning specialists to deal with the problem as soon as possible.

    While we outlined how to get rid of mold in shower areas here, we recommend reading resources from the Environmental Protection Agency or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for in-depth information about mold.

    Spray With Distilled White Vinegar

    All types of vinegar are acidic, and acids can slowly break down the structure of mold and kill it. Distilled white vinegar is non-toxic but acts much more slowly than chlorine bleach or hydrogen peroxide. While it will kill the mold, the discoloration and stains may remain and require additional scrubbing with a household cleaner.

    Distilled white vinegar can be used safely on most porous and non-porous surfaces. Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle and spray onto the moldy surface. Let it work for an hour. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and allow the surface to dry. Use hydrogen peroxide or a diluted chlorine bleach solution to remove any remaining traces of discoloration.

    Recommended Reading: How To Take Mold Out Of Wood

    How To Kill Black Mold With Tea Tree Oil

    • Combine 1 teaspoon of your favorite teat tree oil to 1 cup of water.
    • Stir or shake thoroughly and put the mixture into your spray bottle.
    • Mist mold mixture on tarnished areas and wipe clean.
    • No spray bottle No worries!
    • Thoroughly dampen a disposable towel or old hand towel with green cleaning solution and apply to tarnished area.
    • As a mold prevention measure, apply the tree oil to tile grout or around faucet handles and spouts then leave to dry)

    How Can I Stop Black Mold Growing

    Can You Use Bleach On Black Mold

    Black mold is caused by damp and moisture entering or becoming trapped in your home, so repairing leaks and also managing ventilation of your home, to get rid of condensation inside windows, for example, is key to preventing black mold from growing.

    One way to control dampness is to protect external wood, brick or stonework from the rain. ‘Driving rain can soak through masonry over 2 feet think in as little as 24 hours,’ says Gordon Grainger, director at Kingfisher Building Products .

    Fixing leaks in windows and doors, and reducing condensation via good ventilation, air conditioning, or the use of a dehumidifier, are all effective strategies to reduce damp and mold.

    Recommended Reading: How Do You Remove Mold Spores From The Air

    Getting Rid Of Mold Naturally: 5 Non

    Black mold may be growing in your home and you dont even know it. Thats because mold loves dark, warm, humid places that are often out of sight. Once it begins to spread, getting rid of black mold can be challenging.

    When the conditions are right, mold can grow quickly sometimes within 24-48 hours. Leaving mold untreated can lead to worsening respiratory illnesses as well as aggravating asthma and allergies. Molds ability to grow quickly and its negative effect on your familys health is why you should keep an eye out and stop mold before it spreads.

    Your basement, kitchen, and bathroom are at the greatest risk for mold and bacteria growth because they are typically areas with moisture. The best way to prevent mold is by cleaning the house regularly and minimizing moisture. Squeegeeing shower doors after use, repairing leaks, and keeping tile grout clean are effective methods for keeping mold at bay. But even if youre frequently cleaning and disinfecting, mold can sneak in and make itself at home.

    A Safer And More Effective Alternative To Chlorine Bleach:

    Dead or alive, mold spores can still remain allergenic. In some severe cases, depending on the material, it may need to be replaced. Hard surfaces that aren’t ruined by moisture damage can be salvaged and cleaned. In this scenario, we recommend UltraMean-2, a non-toxic, non-chlorine, oxygen bleach-based detergent that can penetrate to reach deeply embedded roots and pull them out. Remember to always take the necessary precautions to protect yourself. Proper steps must be taken to prevent yourself from exposure to toxic mold spores that can make you sick and spread to other areas of the house. Safety gear such as gloves, mask, and safety goggles are always recommended.

    After the surface has been cleaned and completely dried, it is very important to follow up with UltraBan, a mold preventative. Do NOT skip this step! If mold has occurred once, it can always occur again. UltraBan was designed to help keep this from happening and will provide your home with a protective barrier to prevent future mold growth.

    These products can easily be purchased at rhinohide.com or over the phone at 863.665.0203.

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    Other Tips For Mold Prevention And Cleanup

    • The key to preventing mold is controlling moisture. If an unexpected leak or flood occurs, wet items and surfaces must be thoroughly dried within 24 to 48 hours otherwise, assume mold will grow.
    • Keep indoor humidity below 60 percent and vent appliances that produce moisture, such as stoves and dryers.
    • Improve ventilation and air flow in bathrooms by using fans or opening windows when showering.
    • Cover cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, with insulation to prevent condensation.
    • Mold may be hidden in places such as behind drywall, underneath carpets, and in ceiling tiles. Investigate thoroughly if you notice or suspect signs of mold.

    Getting Rid Of Black Mold In The Washing Machine

    Does Bleach Kill Mold? Watch This Before You Use It…

    If you want to know how to get rid of shower curtain mold and mildew, the easiest way to do so is on a hot wash on laundry day. Even plastic shower curtains are machine washable, though always check the laundry symbols on the care label before you start to ensure it can take a high temperature. By adding one or two bath towels to the load, you will increase the chance of removing the black mold since their textured fabric will scrub dirt from the curtain, and prevent from wrinkling and tearing by acting as a buffer.

    Read Also: Is Mold Remediation Business Profitable

    Using Distilled Vinegar To Kill Mold

    If the soap doesnt get the job done, then you can try using distilled white vinegar to kill the mold.

    1. Add vinegar to a spray bottle and spray the furniture down.

    2. Wait for approximately one hour and then wipe the surface down using a damp cloth.

    3. Reapply the vinegar if necessary and wipe the wood thoroughly with a dry rag once the mold has been removed.

    How To Identify Mold In Your Home And Get Rid Of It For Good According To An Expert

    As you’re cleaning out a cabinet under the sink or perhaps pulling a couch away from its spot under a window, you find a black substance on the surface of the wall. You’re instantly worried about what it could be, and rightfully so. Mold is a very common problem in homes and is often found in areas near roofs, windows, and pipes, especially if a leak has developed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mold is worrisome as it can impact our respiratory health with symptoms that include itchy eyes, trouble breathing, and allergic reactions in some people.

    Even if you do a great job of keeping your home clean and paying attention to humidity levels, mold can still form. How do you know if what’s under your sink is something to worry about or just something that requires a quick cleanup? Dallas Nevill, the owner of Rainbow Restoration of Southwest Mesa, a Neighborly company, shares insights into how to identify mold and remove it for good in an exclusive interview with House Digest.

    Also Check: How To Treat Mold Exposure

    How Do I Get The Black Out Of My Toilet Tank

  • Pour 2 cups of vinegar right into your toilet tank, and allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
  • Scrub the black buildup away with a scrub brush. …
  • Flush the toilet, and allow the tank to fill up with water.
  • Assess the amount of black buildup left in the toilet tank.
  • How To Get Rid Of Mold In Your Shower And Bathroom

    How To Get Rid Of Toxic Mold In Your Home

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    Mold continues to be prevalent in bathrooms today and is usually found in the shower. Not only is mold unappealing to look at, but it can also be a health hazard. Mold is a form of fungus that thrives in moist, humid environments which is why your bathroom is the perfect home for it. While not always the case, mold can be found in older homes and buildings that weren’t designed for ventilation. We’ll talk about everything you need to know about how to get rid of mold in shower areas of your home and prevent it from happening in the first place!

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