The Best Way To Clean Mold
Welcome back to Busy Bee Blogs! We’re CLEANbee, and today we have a critical topic to discuss .. and that’s mold. Mold can be an eyesore, but it poses health risks and can damage your home if left untreated. Knowing the best way to clean mold is essential before it affects your home, whether it’s a small spot on the bathroom ceiling or a more significant issue in your basement. That’s why we created this step-by-step guide on adequately cleaning and treating it. Let’s get started!
1. Identify the Type and Extent of Mold: Before starting, it’s crucial to determine the severity of the problem.
- Surface Mold: Common in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Usually manageable with household cleaning.
- Deep-Set Mold: Found in porous materials like drywall or wood. It may require professional remediation.
- Black Mold (Stachybotrys): Toxic and requires immediate attention.
- *Tip: Remember, it’s best to call professionals if the mold covers over 10 square feet. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priority.
2. Gather the Right Supplies: For small mold-cleaning jobs, you’ll need.
- Protective gear: gloves, mask (preferably an N95 respirator), and safety goggles.
- White vinegar: A natural mold killer.
- Bleach (1:10 ratio with water): Effective for non-porous surfaces.
- Baking Soda: Great for scrubbing and deodorizing.
- Use: Commercial mold cleaners for tough spots.
- Tools: Scrub brushes, sponges, microfiber cloths, spray bottle, and bucket
3. Ventilate the Area: This helps the air stay fresh.
- Ensure proper airflow: this helps to prevent mold spores from spreading.
- Let it breathe: Open windows and doors.
- Reduce Humidity Levels: Use fans or dehumidifiers.
4. Thorough Cleaning: This is essential for effective mold removal and reducing the regrowth risk.
- Spray the Cleaning Solution: Apply your chosen cleaner to the affected area. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub the Surface: Use a scrub brush or sponge to remove the mold. For porous materials, scrub gently to avoid damaging the surface.
- Rinse and Dry: Wipe down with a damp cloth, then dry the area thoroughly. Moisture is mold’s best friend, so thorough drying is key.
5. Prevent Mold from Coming Back: Take these preventative steps after cleaning.
- Reduce Humidity: Keep humidity levels below 60% using a dehumidifier.
- Fix Leaks: Address any plumbing issues or roof leaks promptly.
- Improve Ventilation: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean high-risk areas frequently with mold-preventing solutions like vinegar or tea tree oil.
- When to Call Professionals: Professional mold remediation may be necessary if mold keeps returning or you’re dealing with black mold. Our team is equipped to handle even the most challenging mold problems, ensuring your home is safe and mold-free.
Final Thoughts: Mold is a common problem, but it can be effectively managed with the right approach. Whether handling a minor outbreak or needing professional help, staying proactive is the way to go. For mold remediation or cleaning needs, you can schedule our team on our website below or call us at (724) 602-2218. We hope you learned about the importance of cleaning mold, and make sure to join us next week for our next blog. See you soon!
If you want a quote for any of our services, fill out our Contact Us form by clicking here.
We do what we say we’re going to do. We are CLEANbee Property Services. See you soon!
