Introduction: How to Get Rid of Black Mold

About: Bonnie is a homeschooling mom. Loves crafting unusual things.

As a homeowner, the last thing you want to find out is that there is mold in your home. Not only is it unsightly to look it, it can be extremely dangerous to the health of anyone who lives in the home, especially if they already have respiratory problems or allergies (learn more about the effects of mold at http://www.blackmoldremoval.com/removal/). Unfortunately, if you call in commercial cleaners, they are going to use harsh chemicals to get rid of the mold. Here are some home remedies you can use yourself to get rid of mold that aren’t as dangerous as chemical solutions.

Step 1: Bleach

There is no type of indoor mold that bleach can’t kill. But, it only works on non-porous surfaces such as tubs, porcelain sinks, tiles, and countertops. It can’t penetrate porous materials. Bleach is best used when you have mold in your bathroom. Use one cup of bleach per gallon of hot water. Apply with a sponge or a spray bottle, and wipe clean with hot water. Be sure to wear gloves, as bleach can do a number on your skin and fingernails.

Step 2: Vinegar

Not only can vinegar kill 82% of mold species, it also has a clean, fresh smell. It is natural, non-toxic, and safe for anyone to use, and there are no fumes. Be sure to use white distilled vinegar, which you can get at any grocery store. Do not dilute the vinegar. Spray it onto the mold, let it sit for an hour, and wipe with hot water.

Step 3: Borax

Another solution is to use borax. This is a natural product, with no chemicals or fumes, and is available in supermarkets in the laundry section. Use one cup of borax per gallon of hot water. Vacuum loose mold, and apply borax solution with a brush. Scrub off the mold, and wipe the area with clear, hot water.

Step 4: Hydrogen Peroxide

This will kill the mold, and get rid of mold stains. Peroxide is non-toxic and safe to use, and it isn’t harmful to the environment. You can get hydrogen peroxide in drug stores for about $2 per bottle. Do not dilute the peroxide, and spray it directly onto the mold. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub away with hot water.

Step 5: Tea Tree Oil

Another natural product that can kill mold is tea tree oil. It can be expensive, but a little goes a long way. Use one teaspoon of tea tree oil per cup of water. Wear gloves when making this preparation, as undiluted tea tree oil can burn your skin. Spray onto the mold, and let it sit. You don’t have to rinse.

Step 6: Grapefruit Seed Extract

This works like tea tree oil as it kills mold, but it is expensive. Mix 10 drops of extract for every cup of water. Spray onto the mold, and don’t worry about rinsing. The longer it sits, the better it works.

Step 7: Dish Detergent

Regular dish detergent and warm water can be used to scrub away surface mold on surfaces that are non-porous. This won’t kill the mold, but it will clean enough that there is no need to use a mold killer.

Step 8: Baking Soda

You can clean so many things with baking soda, and mold is one of them. It is natural, has no odor, and is safe to use for cleaning mold. It also deodorizes the area, so you can get rid of moldy smells. One method is to use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Or, put a quarter of a tablespoon of baking soda into a spray bottle filled with water, making sure to shake it up to dissolve the soda. Spray the mold with this mixture, and scrub with a brush. Rinse with water.