Can Rubbing Alcohol Kill Mold? DIY Tips

Keeping your home mold-free is essential—not just for aesthetics but for your health. Mold, particularly black mold, can cause serious respiratory issues and structural damage if left unchecked. At the first signs of mold growth, it’s important to act quickly. One commonly used method to kill mold on hard surfaces is with rubbing alcohol.

But how effective is rubbing alcohol at killing mold? Which surfaces is it safe to use on? And when should you call in professional help?

In this article, we’ll answer all those questions and walk you through the DIY approach vs. professional mold remediation services—so you can take the right steps to keep your home safe and mold-free.

How does alcohol kill mold?

Using rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) to kill mold is a natural, low-toxicity solution often found in household cleaning routines. It works by breaking down mold’s cell walls on contact, effectively killing surface mold on non-porous materials. That said, alcohol won’t penetrate porous surfaces or eliminate mold spores hiding deep inside materials like wood or drywall.

And that’s the critical difference: while rubbing alcohol may remove visible mold on the surface, it doesn’t address the root cause or airborne spores that can trigger allergic reactions or asthma.

Pro Tip: Mold problems are usually caused by moisture issues. Without fixing the underlying humidity or leak problem, the mold will likely come back—even after a thorough cleaning.

Watch RestorationMaster video on how to remove mold with rubbing alcohol

Is alcohol effective against killing mold?

Rubbing alcohol can be effective for treating small, surface-level mold growth on non-porous materials such as:

• Glass
• Metal
• Plastic
• Sealed tile
• Laminate countertops

However, it’s not suitable for porous surfaces like:

• Drywall
• Carpet
• Wood
• Upholstery

In these cases, mold can grow deep below the surface and return after cleaning. For deeper infestations, alternative solutions like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or professional mold removal services are much more effective.

If you’re dealing with persistent mold, large areas of damage, or mold growth in your walls or HVAC system, it’s best to bring in a mold remediation expert.

What Surfaces Are Safe to Clean with Alcohol?

A solution containing equal parts alcohol and water can effectively kill mold on hard surfaces like countertops and tiles. Using 20% ethanol alcohol is particularly effective, not only for tackling mold, but also for general sanitizing around your home. However, it’s important to note that while alcohol can kill mold on the surface, it does not eliminate mold spores.

Spray or wipe the alcohol or solution directly on the surface and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then scrub the mold and wipe the surface clean. Make sure to wear gloves when doing this and always ensure good ventilation.

The following are the best surfaces to use rubbing alcohol to kill mold:

• Glass – Windows, mirrors, and glass doors
• Metal – Fixtures, tools, appliances
• Sealed tiles and grout – Like in kitchens or bathrooms
• Plastic – Containers, toys, shower curtains
• Countertops – If made from laminate or sealed stone
• Finished wood – Only if it’s sealed and not water-damaged

How do professionals kill mold?

If the mold growth in your home is too much to be removed using rubbing alcohol, then you should call a mold remediation contractor to handle the issue. Professional mold removal companies utilize advanced equipment, specialized tools, and proven techniques to eliminate mold and ensure it doesn’t return. Here’s a closer look at the remediation process:

• Commercial-Grade Cleaners and Fungicides: Professional-grade cleaners and fungicides are far more effective than standard household products. They not only eliminate mold but also prevent it from returning. A popular choice is Concrobium, which forms a protective barrier on surfaces to inhibit future mold growth.

• HEPA Vacuums: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuums are designed to remove mold spores from surfaces with precision. Equipped with specialized filters, they capture even the smallest particles, ensuring mold spores are not released back into the air.

• Dehumidifiers: Excess moisture is a leading cause of mold growth. Industrial-strength dehumidifiers are used to lower humidity levels in affected areas, creating an environment where mold cannot thrive.

• Air Scrubbers: Air scrubbers purify the air in mold-affected spaces by removing mold spores and other contaminants. This not only improves air quality but also reduces the risk of mold spreading further.

• Protective Equipment: Mold remediation professionals rely on specialized protective gear, including gloves, masks, goggles, and coveralls, to ensure their safety and prevent cross-contamination during mold removal.

• Dry Ice Blasting: For large-scale mold infestations, dry ice blasting is an effective solution. This technique involves spraying dry ice pellets onto moldy surfaces, using extreme cold to remove mold without damaging the underlying materials.

• Antimicrobial Coatings: After mold is removed, antimicrobial coatings are applied to surfaces. These coatings act as a protective shield, preventing mold from growing again and offering long-term protection.

• Moisture Meters: To ensure complete mold removal, professionals use moisture meters to detect hidden moisture in walls, floors, and ceilings. This helps identify problem areas and prevents mold from recurring.

Local Mold Removal Services

While rubbing alcohol can be an effective and accessible solution for removing small mold patches on non-porous surfaces, it is not a comprehensive remedy, especially for deeper or widespread infestations. For lasting results and to protect your health and home, it’s essential to address underlying moisture issues and, when necessary, turn to professional mold remediation services equipped with the tools and expertise to eliminate mold safely and thoroughly.

If you do encounter a mold issue in your home, make sure to call a mold remediation professional right away to contain and assess the damage. These professionals use effective methods and equipment to safely remove mold growth and permanently damaged materials as well as restore the affected areas to safe conditions. Calling a professional as soon as possible will help limit the damage and reduce the risk of related health issues.

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