Mold can be a pesky problem in any home, but it doesn't have to be a permanent one. With the right knowledge and tools, you can easily remove mold from your home and prevent it from coming back. The first step in getting rid of mold is to identify the source of the moisture that is causing it. Stopping leaks, ensuring good ventilation in attics, keeping mezzanines dry and keeping water away from foundations are the best defenses against mold.
Appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators and coffee machines that combine moisture, heat, or food to feed mold need frequent cleaning. Once you have identified the source of the moisture, you can begin to tackle the mold. Natural mold cleaners such as undiluted white vinegar can be used on hard surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms. A bleach solution can also kill mold.
Mix a cup of bleach into a gallon of water, apply it to the surface and don't rinse it off. To clean mold from porous surfaces such as wood and drywall, a detergent must be added to a solution of bleach and water to help it adhere. If you see black or green mold that is fuzzy or viscous and the drywall or wood underneath is soft or brittle, there is irreversible decay and the mold and damaged surfaces should be removed immediately. Since you have to repair the wall anyway, don't hesitate to cut the drywall beyond the obvious damage to find all the mold and let the wall dry.
When dealing with leather surfaces, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any mold from the surface. Test the brush on a small part of the leather that isn't visible before you start brushing where mold forms. If your home has been flooded and mold and bacteria have been allowed to grow for many days, it may be impossible to recover cloth garments and clothing. Keeping rooms in your home, such as the bathroom, dry and cool can help prevent mold from growing, but despite your best efforts, mold can continue to grow in unwanted places. Fortunately, there are plenty of effective store-bought cleaners available for removing mold.
However, if you have a serious problem with mold on your hands, which may be due to respiratory problems or other negative health effects, it's best to call a professional. By following these steps, you can easily get rid of mold in your home and prevent it from coming back. Remember that controlling humidity is key in preventing future outbreaks.
