Let's be real no one wants mold in their house. It's unsightly, it has a stinky odor, and it can even get you ill. Mold tends to live in wet areas such as basements, bathrooms, and under the sink. And when it appears, people tend to reach for harsh chemical cleaners like bleach to eliminate it quickly. But here's the catch those bad chemicals can hurt more than help.
Chemical cleaners will indeed kill the mold on the surface, but they usually don't prevent it from returning. And to top it off, they can also cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and lung irritation. If you have kids or pets living in the house, the cleaners could pose a threat to them as well. And oh yeah, the stinky smell stays for hours. And what about the Earth? Those chemicals somehow find their way into our water, which isn't healthy for the nature world either.
The good news is that strong chemicals are not required to eliminate mold. To the contrary, there are many natural and safe methods to eliminate mold that are just as effective sometimes even more so. In this article, we will disclose the Best mold cleaning solutions that are safe on you and the environment but strong on mold.
Why Choose Natural Mold Cleaners?
Cleaning mold with natural products is healthier for you, your home, and the world. Chemicals can be harmful if inhaled or placed on your skin. And even after cleaning, the mold may grow back again if you don't do it correctly.
Natural cleaners, however, are usually just as good. Most of them are already in your kitchen! They're safer to use and don't leave behind any toxic fumes. So, let's have a look at the Best mold cleaning solutions that don't use chemicals.
1. White Vinegar – The Simple Mold Fighter
White vinegar is one of the most widely used natural cleaning agents and for good reason! It's inexpensive, accessible, and good at killing mold.
How to use it:
Simply pour some white vinegar (don't dilute it with water) into a spray bottle. Spray it directly onto the moldy surface. Let it sit for an hour. Then, brush the area with a brush and wash it off with water.
Why it works:
Vinegar is acidic, and as such, it kills mold and prevents it from regrowing. It's safe on most surfaces such as glass, tile, and walls. Only don't use it on stone surfaces such as marble or granite since it may damage them.
2. Baking Soda – Gentle but Strong
Baking soda is another natural and safe method for cleaning mold. Not only does it kill mold, but it also eradicates the foul odor.
How to use it:
Combine one teaspoon of baking soda and two cups of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the mold, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush or a sponge. Clean the area and spray it again to prevent mold from growing in the future.
Why it works:
Baking soda draws out moisture, which mold requires to grow. Baking soda also deodorizes the area and prevents the area from becoming stinky.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide – The Natural Disinfectant
Hydrogen peroxide is a household item that's fantastic for eliminating bacteria, germs, and mold without the need for harsh chemicals.
How to use it:
Dilute 3% hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle (don't water it down). Spray it onto the mold and leave it for around 10 minutes. Then clean and wipe the area spotless.
Why it works:
It's potent enough to kill mold on absorbent surfaces such as wood, upholstery, and walls. Just be cautious hydrogen peroxide can bleach certain materials, so use a little test area first.
4. Tea Tree Oil – Smells Good, Works Great
Tea tree oil is a natural essential oil that contains strong anti-mold qualities. It has a fresh, nice smell and is safe to use with children and pets (in moderation).
How to use it:
Dilute one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray it on the mold and allow it to dry. Don't rinse it unless it feels oily afterward.
Why it works:
Tea tree oil eliminates mold and prevents it from returning. And, it makes your environment smell fresh and clean.
5. Citrus Seed Extract – A Fresh Alternative
Less known, yet highly effective, citrus seed extract (particularly grapefruit seed extract) is a natural and safe mold eliminator.
How to use it:
Use approximately 10 drops of citrus seed extract to one cup water. Spray the solution on the mold and leave it. No scrubbing or rinsing unless the area is extensive.
Why it works:
It's antifungal and prevents mold from recurring. It also doesn't smell strongly, which is wonderful if you have a sensitive nose.
How to Prevent Mold From Reoccurring
Cleanliness is only half the task. In order to prevent mold from returning, you must regulate moisture within your house. Mold thrives on wet, dark environments. These are some hints to avoid it:
- Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Repair drips under sinks or in the roof promptly.
- Open windows or operate a dehumidifier in wet spaces.
- Don't let wet clothes or towels lie around.
- Clean and dry spills right away.
By making your home clean and dry, you make it more difficult for mold to flourish.
A Few Warnings to Keep in Mind
Although these natural remedies work and are safe, keep these facts in mind:
- Don't combine cleaners such as vinegar and hydrogen peroxide they can produce toxic gases.
- Scrubbing is crucial. Spraying and hoping for the best does not work. Scrubbing removes the mold from the surface entirely.
- Call a pro if mold infests a large area (over 10 square feet). Large mold issues could be concealed behind walls or beneath flooring.
Final Thoughts
You don't have to use harsh chemicals to eliminate mold. The most effective mold cleaning products are usually the safest, most natural, and easiest ones to use. Vinegar and baking soda, tea tree oil and hydrogen peroxide are all products you can use to clean your house without risking your health.
Next time you see mold developing in your home, forgo the bleach and attempt one of these natural options. They're easy, efficient, and much better for your family, your pets, and the environment.
With the best mold cleaning products, you're not only cleaning you're choosing smarter and healthier.
