Along with looking unappealing, bathroom mold on your walls (or any room, for that matter) is also unhealthy and unsafe. Studies have shown that mold in the home is linked to upper respiratory tract symptoms, coughing, and wheezing in healthy people and worsening symptoms for those who have asthma. While it can be hazardous to your health, there are some natural remedies for it. Here’s our list of 6 natural ways to clean mold off walls.
Before You Start
As a renter, you have the right to a safe and habitable space. In some cities, that includes a mold-free environment; in others, there are limits to the amount of indoor mold that can exist in a rental unit. Check the Environmental Health State Bill Tracking Database to see how your state views mold and whose responsibility it is to clean off walls. If your local laws don’t state that your landlord must clean off all mold from your walls, then you can use these natural remedies to get it off yourself.
1. Baking Soda
A little baking soda can take care of just about anything. This non-toxic product is safe for you and your pets, and it’s super easy to use. Besides killing mold, a baking soda mixture will absorb moisture to help reduce mold. It also has drying properties that can prevent future mold from growing.
- To kill mold: Combine a quarter tablespoon baking soda with water in a spray bottle and shake until it has dissolved. Spray moldy walls and use a sponge or non-scratch scouring pad to clean the mold off. Rinse the surface with water to remove any residual surface mold. Spray the moldy area one last time and let the surface dry. This will ensure you’ve gotten the last of it.
2. Vinegar
Vinegar is another favorite non-toxic cleaning product that works well on moldy walls. Some people even combine vinegar with baking soda to kill different varieties of mold.
- To kill mold: Pour white distilled vinegar into an empty spray bottle. Do not mix with water. Spray liberally onto moldy surfaces, and let the vinegar sit for an hour. Then, wipe the area clean with water and let it dry.
3. Tea Tree Oil
This natural essential oil is harmless to pets and animals, making it a great alternative to bleach and other mold-fighting chemicals. Although it’s one of the priceir options, it’s also one of the most effective ones.
- To kill mold: Purchase tea tree oil that specifically states Melaleuca Alternifolia in its ingredients; that’s the authentic stuff. Combine 1 teaspoon of oil and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray affected areas and start scrubbing. If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can also mix the tea tree oil and water in a bowl and simply dip your scrubbing brush into it. Do not rinse the solution off of the wall, as it will prevent future mold from growing.
4. Borax
Although it’s toxic if swallowed, borax does not emit chemicals or dangerous fumes like other products do. It’s also affordable, and you can find it at most grocery stores for just a few dollars.
- To kill mold: Combine 1 cup of borax for every 1 gallon of water. Use a scrubbing brush to loosen the mold from the wall. As the mold comes loose, wipe up any excess mold with a rag and then allow to dry naturally. Leave excess borax on, as it will prevent future mold from growing.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another non-toxic way to get rid of mold. Because of its effervescent fizz, hydrogen peroxide is actually better at penetrating mold on bathroom walls than bleach.
- To kill mold: Pour 3% concentration hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and saturate the moldy surface. Let it sit for ten minutes, then scrub the area until the mold comes loose. Afterward, wipe the surface clean and dry to remove any residual spores.
6. Humidity Control
Humidity control is one of the best ways to ban moldy bathroom walls. Keeping bathroom humidity below 50% will prevent mold from growing in the first place.
- To Kill Mold: Keep air moisture low by turning on the ventilation fan while taking a shower or bathing. You can also open a window, turn up the air conditioner, or purchase a dehumidifier to keep the air fresh and dry out mold more efficiently.
How to get rid of mold in your bathroom
Follow these 10 steps to get rid of mold in your bathroom.
-
Identify the source of moisture
Before tackling mold growth, find and fix any sources of moisture in your bathroom, such as leaks or inadequate ventilation.
-
Increase ventilation
Improve airflow in your bathroom by using an exhaust fan or opening a window during and after showering to reduce humidity.
-
Wear protective gear
Before starting the mold removal process, wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid direct contact with mold spores.
-
Scrub moldy surfaces
Use a brush, sponge, or cloth to scrub moldy areas with a natural cleaning solution. Options include vinegar, baking soda paste, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, or citrus seed extract.
-
Let the solution sit
After applying the cleaning solution, allow it to sit on the moldy surfaces for a few hours or overnight to effectively kill the mold.
-
Scrub and rinse
Once the solution has had time to work, scrub the moldy areas again to remove any remaining mold. Rinse the surfaces thoroughly with water.
-
Dry the area
After cleaning, ensure the bathroom is thoroughly dried to prevent mold from returning. Wipe down surfaces, use a fan or dehumidifier, and fix any ventilation issues.
-
Dispose of contaminated materials
If any materials (such as towels or shower curtains) are heavily infested with mold and cannot be cleaned, dispose of them properly to prevent further contamination.
-
Prevent future mold growth
Implement preventive measures to keep mold at bay. Regularly clean your bathroom, maintain good ventilation, fix any leaks promptly, and monitor humidity levels.
-
Monitor and address recurring mold
Keep an eye out for any signs of mold regrowth. If you notice mold returning, promptly address the underlying issue and repeat the cleaning process.
Frequently asked questions
Mold is often visible as black or green spots on walls, ceilings, or grout lines. You may also notice a musty odor or experience allergic reactions such as sneezing or coughing when spending time in the bathroom.
While bleach is a common mold-killing agent, it is not a recommended natural solution as it can be harsh and release toxic fumes. Natural alternatives like vinegar, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide are safer and effective options.
The time required to eliminate mold depends on the severity of the infestation and the cleaning method used. It may take a few hours to several days, especially if the mold has spread extensively.
Natural remedies can be just as effective in removing mold if used properly and for mild to moderate cases. However, severe mold infestations may require professional intervention or stronger chemical-based products.
Regular cleaning is essential to prevent mold growth. Aim to clean your bathroom at least once a week, focusing on areas prone to moisture buildup, such as showers, tubs, and sinks.
If the mold infestation covers a large area (more than 10 square feet), is difficult to access, or returns despite your best efforts, it’s recommended to consult a professional mold remediation specialist to assess and address the situation.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re trying to rid your bathroom walls, shower walls, or kitchen walls of mold, these natural remedies are all great options. Avoid the chemical
Ready to look for a new place entirely? Search thousands of apartments for rent on Zumper and find your new spot.
The post 6 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Mold in Your Bathroom appeared first on The Zumper Blog.