Is is difficult to remove kill mold and a challenge for any homeowner. Some molds are highly toxic, some are indicative of intense dampness in the home, but all molds are unsightly. You should remove them as soon as possible. Mold can also destroy the surfaces it grows on. It can lead to structural damage of the home and potentially cause health problems for people who suffer from respiratory issues or weakened immune systems. Many homeowners turn to bleach to help get rid of mold, but is this an effective method? This blog will explore whether bleach can get rid of mold, the risks associated with this removal, and whether there are better alternatives to this type of removal.
How Does Bleach Kill Mold?
Bleach can kill mold, but only on certain surfaces. It only works effectively on nonporous surfaces, like tiles and sinks. This means that any mold growing on wood or drywall cannot be managed and maintained with bleach. The reason is that mold spreads deep under the surface of porous materials, meaning that it will continue to grow even when attacked on the surface by bleach. In these cases, you need to go to the source to eliminate mold growth.
How Do You Use Bleach To Remove Mold?
For nonporous surfaces, bleach is an excellent way to remove mold. You can use it by:
- Mix one cup bleach with one gallon of water
- Pour the solution into a spray bottle
- Spray onto the mold surface and allow it to soak in
- Rinse the surfaces with clean water, and air dry.
- When working with bleach and mold, it’s important to open all windows and doors to allow proper ventilation and wear protective gear. Protective gear includes gloves, masks, eye goggles, and old clothes.
Are There Health Risks with Using Bleach to Get Rid of Mold?
Yes. There are health risks associated with using bleach to get rid of mold in the home. We don’t usually think of household bleach as corrosive or toxic. But prolonged exposure to the bleach needed for mold removal can irritate your eyes, mouth, lungs, and skin. You are particularly at risk if you have asthma.
It’s important to note that you should never mix bleach with ammonia. This dangerous action will release deadly toxic chlorine gas. When inhaled in large amounts, chlorine gas can cause chest pain, severe breathing problems, fluid in the lungs, pneumonia, and vomiting.
What Other Types of Solutions Kill Mold?
There are several non-toxic methods of mold removal that you can use on all types of surface material. These include:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Tea tree oil
- Grapefruit seed extract.
It’s important to note that if the mold present is toxic, you should get a professional to assist in its removal.
Mold is an unwelcome guest in any home. Not only can it cause health problems, but it can also potentially damage the structure of your home. Bleach can work on any nonporous surface, like tile. However, for surfaces like wood and drywall, it’s best to look for other solutions. While not all mold is toxic, some are – so you must recognize the types of mold and assess whether a professional should handle its removal instead. Contact Allied Restoration with any questions you might have on mold removal.
Allied Restoration is an IICRC (Institute Of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification), Certified Firm. Our Senior Project Manager, Wilma Fogler, was the first person in the State of Maryland to achieve the IICRC Master Water Restorer Certification. Allied is Licensed, Bonded, Insured, and a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. 