Getting Rid of Mold Naturally: Non-Toxic Ways…

Mold is a phenomenon that affects many homes and can even grow in your home without you knowing it. This is because mold grows in damp, warm and dark places that are often not visible. Once installed, mold is difficult to eliminate and if all conditions are met, it can develop very quickly, sometimes within 24/48 hours. Therefore, if you do not treat the problem in time, you may face risks of respiratory diseases, asthma or allergies. Check out our tips on how to get rid of mold and prevent it from reappearing, as it can not only damage your home, but also cause health problems.

How to get rid of mold in the home?

Diluted bleach: Sarah Dempsey, a British cleaning expert, told the Express newspaper that households could use diluted bleach sold in stores to remove traces of mold. Still, this chemical should be avoided on certain surfaces, she added. If you prefer to use this potentially toxic product, be sure to wear protective gloves during the action and adequately ventilate the room. Afterwards, let the product soak in and wipe it off.

White vinegar:

The other, less chemical and equally effective solution is to use a vinegar solution instead. White vinegar cleans, deodorizes and disinfects thanks to its acetic acid content.  Whether on a porous or non-porous surface, vinegar can also kill 82% of moldspecies, including black mold. Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle without adding water, as this will reduce its effectiveness. Then spray the vinegar on the moldy surface and let it sit for an hour. Finally, rinse the infected area with water and let it dry. Although the vinegar smell will disappear after only a few hours, it is possible to add a few drops of essential oils in a scent of your choice such as lavender or lemon if you find the vinegar smell unpleasant.

Baking soda:

This multipurpose product throughout the house can also help you eliminate black mold and absorb excess moisture in affected rooms. One of the benefits of this product is that it is safe for your family and pets. Add ¼ tablespoon of baking soda to a spray bottle filled with water and shake until the solution is homogeneous. Then spray the moldy surface with the solution, use a scrub brush to remove the mold, and rinse the surface with water to remove product residue. Finally, spray the area again and allow to dry without re-wiping. This will also prevent mold from returning. For stubborn black mold, mix two parts baking soda with one part water and one part white vinegar and stir until a thick paste forms. Spread the paste liberally over the affected area and let it dry. Then scrub the mold and stain and rinse with water.

Tea Tree Oil:

Natural essential oils can be used in much more than aromatherapy. Tea tree oil, for example, is an antiseptic, deodorant and insect repellent. This natural fungicide can thus be used against black mold. Mix one teaspoon of tea tree oil with one cup of water in a spray bottle and shake vigorously to mix the water with the oil. Then spray on the moldysurface, let it dry for an hour and finally wipe it off with a microfiber cloth or dry towel. Don’t forget to wear protective gloves, as some people may have sensitive skin when in contact with essential oils.

Lemon:

This antiseptic, which also acts as a natural deodorizer, bleach, stain remover and cleaner, is an effective remedy for black mold. Its high acid concentration breaks down mold, facilitating its removal, disinfects the surface and leaves a pleasant lemon aroma. Squeeze three to five lemons into a cup, pour the juice over the moldy surface and let it sit for five minutes. Then wipe it off with a damp cloth. If the mold stains are stubborn, rub the surface with the lemons to get rid of them. However, if the mold remains stubborn and does not disappear despite all the means used, it is recommended to hire a household cleaning company that has expertise in mold removal with the latest technology and equipment.

How to prevent mold from returning to your home?

  • Ventilate infested rooms: In this method, you flood your home with fresh air by opening doors and windows wide until the mold is eliminated. Experts agreed that ventilation is the key to preventing mold. The cause of this phenomenon is basically a mixture of excessive humidity, cold temperatures and poor air circulation. Therefore, the various rooms of a house must be properly ventilated and heated, especially bathrooms and kitchens where excessive steam is generated.
  • Making sure range hoods are working and installing a fan in the bathroom can help eliminate moisture problems and prevent them from recurring. Use a dehumidifier or keep windows slightly open: When drying clothes indoors, it’s important to allow air to circulate.
  • Regular cleaning and drying of mold-prone surfaces is one of the most effective ways to prevent mold from returning. If you properly clean and dry tile, grout, window sillsand vents, mold won’t have a chance to grow.
  • However, if mold keeps reappearing, the cause may be inadequate waterproofing or clogged gutters causing too much moisture, as well as poorly insulated walls. Therefore, it is important to eliminate the problem at its root.

These remedies are great alternatives to commercial chemicals to help you get rid of mold in your home. Not only are they less harmful to your environment and the environment, but they are also less expensive.