Black mold is a nasty problem that spreads easily. If it is not tackled quickly, your mold problem can spin out of control, making it harder and harder to contain. Fortunately, by following four simple, straightforward steps you can eradicate mold in your home and make sure it doesn’t return.
Some things you will need for this process include: a commercial mold removal spray, a commercial mold inhibitor, disposable gloves, a respirator or face mask, a scrub brush, a good fan, and ideally, a dehumidifier. All of these items are available for purchase at a home improvement store.
Determine the Source of the Mold
In order to best remove black mold and prevent it from returning, you need to address the source of the mold in the first place. The source of mold also has to do with excess water. Most often this comes as the result of leaky plumbing, but it could also result from leaks in your roof, flooding, poor water drainage, crawl space moisture, or high levels of humidity in a room. Determine the root cause of your mold, seeking professional help as needed. Repair the source of the excess moisture. This is the #1 way to prevent mold from coming back.
Scrub Away Visible Mold
Many people will try to remove black mold using bleach, or bleach-based products. Although these products are good at removing visible mold, since they contain high levels of moisture, they can actually encourage mold to grow back. Despite what your mother may have told you: avoid using bleach to remove mold!
Instead, you will want to purchase a commercial mold removal product. Spray this product generously anywhere you can see mold, and allow it to sit for 3-5 minutes. Then use a clean scrub brush to remove any visible mold.
Once the mold has been removed and the area is dry, spray on a commercial mold inhibitor to prevent regrowth.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when cleaning mold: wear disposable gloves to protect your hands, open windows and turn on a fan to keep the room ventilated, wear a ventilator or face mask to avoid inhaling mold spores, and ensure that the room has plenty of light so you can see all the mold you need to remove. If possible, run a dehumidifier in the space.
Throw Away Moldy Items
If clothing, toys, furniture, or other items have been infected with mold, they should probably go in the trash. The same is true for carpet and drywall: if there is a high quantity of mold on these surfaces, they may need to be cut out and replaced. Keeping moldy items in your home will increase the likelihood of your mold problem coming back.
Reduce the Moisture Levels in Your Home
As much as you can, take steps to reduce the level of moisture in your home. If your windows are old or out-of-date, they may be letting in too much moisture. If this is the case, they may need to be sealed or replaced. Run a dehumidifier in the problem room 1-3 times per week to keep the moisture content low. Also, monitor the original source of the mold: has the problem been effectively repaired?
If your mold problem seems too big for you to tackle, you may want to seek the advice of a professional mold removal agency.
