5 Ways to Kill Mold & Mildew Naturally
Mold and mildew are silent dangers that lurk in warm, dark, humid places. In the right conditions, they can grow and spread rapidly. Untreated, this leads to respiratory illnesses, asthma, and allergy aggravation.
Fast-growing mold and mildew and their harmful effects are why it is essential to have cleaning supplies on hand to deal with them quickly. The bathroom, kitchen, and basement are the top risk areas due to moisture. Cleaning regularly and minimizing moisture is the best way to prevent mold.
However, in humid climates and areas with frequent storms, you may find mold creeping up on you.
Consider these easy methods to kill mold and mildew naturally if you notice spores growing in your home.
Read more: How to get rid of mold mites
What is the Difference Between Mold and Mildew?
The Environmental Protection Agency highlights the various molds found in your home. Pretty much anywhere there is oxygen and moisture is a place for mold to grow. Both mold and mildew are fungi that grow on various surfaces. However, mildew comes from plants.
The main difference is texture and color. Green or black substances that are sticky and thick are likely to be mold. Mildew will be gray or white and powdery looking.
They can lurk unseen, especially after significant water damage by a storm. You may find mold and mildew complicating the cleanup process when you start repairs. Keep these solutions on hand, and you can fight back!
If the problem persists, contact All Dry USA for professional assistance.
1. Vinegar
Undiluted vinegar sprayed straight onto the offending site is a prime mold-killer.
It should be left on for a few hours and then scrubbed away with a brush. The smell can be pretty pungent, but you can dilute it with a few drops of essential oils without dimming the effectiveness.
It is better to dilute the scent with essential oils rather than water. Water will dilute the effectiveness and increase the chances of mold growth.
Ultimately, the scent will go away on its own after a few hours. White vinegar effectively kills mold spores, viruses, and bacteria.
It also works as a preventative if sprayed on the surface and left to dry.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide
This cleaning agent is an easy option since most households keep hydrogen peroxide in the medicine cabinet. Not only can it help clean cuts and scrapes, but it can also effectively kill mold.
Simply put at least 3% hydrogen peroxide solution into a spray bottle, spray it onto the mold or mildew, let it sit for 10 minutes, and wipe it away. Hydrogen Peroxide is an excellent option for mold in the washing machine.
Another option for a home remedy is to combine it with distilled vinegar for an amped-up cleaning solution to kill tiny mold mites. Just use a 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle, shake, and spray.
Keep in mind; store hydrogen peroxide in a dark-colored bottle. Over time, it loses effectiveness, so buy a new bottle if yours has been on the shelf for years.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is a popular infection treatment and skincare remedy derived from the leaves of the tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia.
It is powerful and helpful when killing mildew and mold. Just like vinegar and hydrogen peroxide, you just need a spray bottle.
The spray is safe for any surface, but the smell will be strong for a couple of days. If you are sensitive to scents, try another option on the list.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a go-to cleaning tool for surfaces outside and inside the home. You can use it in a few ways, including alone, with water to form a paste or combine with vinegar.
It is a mild cleaner, but it does disinfect thoroughly. It is a popular homemade shower and tub cleaner. If mold or mildew is in your kitchen or bathroom grout, this can help destroy it.
Another way to use it is in the laundry to boost the detergent’s power. It can remove the musty smell of clothing if you leave it in the washer or dryer for too long.
If you use baking soda with vinegar, make sure you stir until the baking soda wholly dissolves. Then, pour it into a spray bottle and spray the mold.
Let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then scrub it clean with a soft brush or damp rag. Baking soda can be combined with water to form a gritty paste to scrub the offending surface.
5. Lemon
A final natural cleaning solution to kill mold and mildew is the household staple: lemon.
Lemons are acidic and work to disinfect and break down mold particles. Simply juice some lemons and pour the juice over the affected areas. After about five minutes, wipe the surface clean with a damp towel. Ideally, try three to five lemons for enough solution. If the mold is tough, just reapply and scrub it clear again.
In addition to being a disinfectant, lemons are a natural bleach, cleaner, deodorizer, and stain remover. The high acid levels break down mold and ensure no spores are left behind. It also leaves a pleasant lemony scent behind!
Read more: Will dehumidifier kill mold?
The Bottom Line
Mold and mildew are no joke, especially in humid climates. After storms sweep through, they leave serious damage, as well as the potential for mildew and mold to take root. These natural remedies provide easy, low-cost, non-toxic options to battle both substances.
Try these remedies if you find mold and mildew are taking over your home.
If the battle is already lost, contact All Dry USA for professional assistance in beating back these dangerous household toxins.
Reach out today and get your home cleaner than ever before!
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