How to Remove Mold From Caulking Around Windows

How to Remove Black Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew growth is common in areas of your home that collect lots of moisture. You may notice black mold or mildew in bathrooms, kitchens or basements. Mold and mildew can cause serious illness, so find out how you can safely remove it from your home today.

Removing Mold and Mildew From Walls

Depending on ventilation, mold and mildew can form on walls or in grout. Mix 3/4 cups of bleach to one gallon of water to create an at-home solution. Wear rubber gloves and cover your nose and mouth. Handle bleach mixture with care. Use a bristled cleaning brush to soak the growth area. To fully penetrate the mold and mildew, let your bleach mixture set for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. Since mold forms from moisture, make sure to properly ventilate and dry out the area after cleaning to prevent mold from reoccurring.

Mildew Growth on Fabric

Mildew spores can form on damp clothing and fabrics. This includes wet towels, shower curtains or your laundry you forgot in the washer. To remove mildew, first remove the spores. Using rubber gloves, collect the contaminated fabric and take it outside. Shake the fabric gently or use a brush to remove mildew growth. Soak mildewy fabrics in non-chlorine bleach for up to 30 minutes before rinsing, washing and drying completely. For shower curtains, soak in warm water with bleach and let dry.

All-Natural Ways to Kill Black Mold

If you are unsure about using corrosives like ammonia or bleach to remove black mold, you're in luck. All-natural ingredients you have lying around your home may do the trick. Mix water and tea tree oil for a good-smelling, healthy alternative to cleaning black mold. Tea tree is a natural anti-fungal and has antibacterial properties. Try using white-distilled vinegar for mold and mildew removal, as well. Add some to a spray bottle and spread over moldy areas. Make sure your room is well ventilated, since vinegar has a strong smell.

Books, Shoes and Other Items

Sometimes mildew and mold growth occurs on items like books, shoes or luggage. To clean books, create a solution of one part bleach to four parts water and gently wipe pages. Let books air dry, and use baking soda to soak up additional moisture. You can use a similar tactic with shoes and luggage. Use a mixture of one cup of denatured alcohol and one cup of water to clean these items and let them dry completely.

Tips for Avoiding Black Mold and Mildew

Black mold and mildew causes a slew of health problems, so it's best to avoid growth at all costs. Follow these simple tips to avoid negative side effects of mold like migraines, congestion and allergy symptoms. Avoid excess moisture in your home by wiping down areas with condensation like bathrooms and basements. Don't keep wet laundry waiting; remove clothes from the washer and dry as soon as possible. Utilize your exhaust fans when in the bathroom or kitchen. Open a window or use an electric fan if you don't have any fans. Use a dehumidifier in your basement and empty it regularly.

Tuck Wers1965