Summary: In the realm of mold remediation, there’s a growing focus on eco-friendly DIY mold removal methods that effectively kill mold while being gentle on the environment. This article explores sustainable techniques for mold removal, showcasing how homeowners and businesses can tackle such issues with a green approach.

 

A clean home is a mold-free home. Homeowners can control mold growth via various means, including eco-friendly ones. Using non-toxic methods to eradicate mold is better for the health of the home’s occupants as well as for preserving the environment.

What is Mold?

Mold, a fungus commonly found outdoors, naturally breaks down organic matter like dead leaves and fallen trees. However, when mold spores find their way indoors, they can become a nuisance and pose health risks. Two common types found indoors are black mold and green mold, with black mold, particularly Stachybotrys Chartarum, known for its potential health hazards.

Read More: What is Green Mold and How to Remove it?

How is Mold Harmful?

Mold growth decreases indoor air quality, causes allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, and compromises the structural integrity of the home by eating away at organic materials, like drywall. It’s important to clean up mold as soon as it is spotted to prevent unwanted consequences.

Why Use Eco-Friendly Methods For Mold Removal?

Eco-friendly tactics to control mold are preferred over harsh chemicals, such as bleach or borax. The fumes and chemicals in commercial products like these are known to have adverse effects on people, pets, and the environment. Bleach and borax, for instance, irritate the skin and eyes.

Non-toxic mold removal solutions, like tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, and vinegar, are made from natural ingredients, kill mold, and prevent future growth. Plus, eco-friendly tactics are cost-effective in comparison to traditional products that are expensive and require repeated applications.

How to Kill Mold Using Eco-Friendly Methods?

To kill mold using eco-friendly methods, you use natural and safe products that don’t harm the environment. Here are some ways to do it:

Vinegar

White vinegar is a household staple with the power to kill 82 percent of mold spores. Spray the vinegar onto the moldy areas. A few hours after the treatment, scrub the mold with a brush. If the smell of vinegar is unpleasant, add drops of scented essential oil.

Hydrogen Peroxide

A bottle of three percent hydrogen peroxide is an effective, eco-friendly mold-killer. As with vinegar, spray the affected areas and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. Scrub the moldy spot and wipe with a damp cloth. Homeowners can safely use vinegar and hydrogen peroxide together.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another household staple that is effective in ridding the home of mold. Prepare a solution by dissolving the baking soda in water; alternately, mix the baking soda with vinegar. Spray it onto the moldy area; allow it to sit, scrub away the mold and wipe clean.

Read: How to Kill Mold with Baking Soda?

Citrus Seed Extract

Citrus seed extract can be purchased at most retail stores. When 20 drops of the extract are diluted with two cups of water, the resulting solution is a powerful mold remover. Prepare the solution then spray the splotches of mold. Avoid rinsing for maximum effect.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another eco-friendly product, although it is more expensive than the above mentioned mold-removal solutions. Control the mold by mixing two teaspoons of tea tree oil with two cups of water. Spray it over the moldy areas and do not rinse.

Grape Fruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract is a powerful natural fungicide that can kill mold and mildew. Mix 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract with a cup of water in a spray bottle, spray it onto the moldy surface, and let it sit without rinsing.

These eco-friendly methods are effective for killing mold and mildew while being safe for the environment and your health. Remember to wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when handling mold, and always ventilate the area properly during and after treatment.

Do Eco-Friendly Mold Removers Produce Odors?

While vinegar produces odors, the smells can be masked by adding essential oils, as mentioned. Baking soda, on the other hand, naturally absorbs unwanted odors, leaving the home smelling clean and fresh. Citrus seed extract comes unscented. Tea tree oil’s strong scent dissipates after a few hours.

How to Prevent Mold Naturally?

The non-toxic methods mentioned above work to control mold infestations. However, homeowners are advised to take steps to prevent mold colonies from developing in the first place. Mold growth can be avoided by using any of the following mold-prevention strategies.

• Control humidity: Control humidity levels in the home to prevent an outbreak of mold. High humidity levels produce a dampness in the air that can lead to mold growth. Set the indoor humidity levels to less than 60 percent. The EPA recommends keeping the humidity between 30 and 50 percent.
• Run dehumidifiers: Run energy-efficient dehumidifiers to further reduce the moisture in the indoor air and thereby control mold growth. Be aware that cooking and showering are daily activities that can add to indoor humidity. Dryers are also moisture-generating appliances. Dehumidifiers don’t kill mold but do prevent it.
• Inspect the home: Homeowners are advised to regularly check the plumbing system inside their home, looking for leaks or buildups of condensation. Inspect the roof, too, for signs of a leak. If water enters the home through the pipes or roof, mold can develop. Repair these issues promptly to deter mold.
• Buy mold-resistant furnishings: Furnish the home with mold-resistant furniture. Examples are those that are manufactured with synthetic textiles or specially treated natural fibers that resist dampness. Homeowners can find furniture that is waterproof or built with water-resistant finishes for further protection against mold.

Use the environmentally friendly methods mentioned above to control mold growth effectively. These approaches offer practical solutions while minimizing harm to the environment.

Professional Mold Remediation

If mold appears in hard-to-reach areas or the infestation becomes overwhelming, seeking professional assistance is essential. Mold remediation specialists will promptly eliminate mold from your home.

Upon arrival, professionals assess the extent of mold growth using advanced equipment, detecting both visible and hidden mold. They are skilled in locating mold even in concealed areas such as behind walls, under carpeting, and in basements.

To prevent cross-contamination, the affected areas are contained, and mold removal is carried out using safe and advanced products. Technicians also identify and repair the source of moisture to prevent future mold growth.

As a preventive measure, mold-restraining solutions are applied to deter future outbreaks. If any materials in the home have been damaged by mold, specialists can restore them to their original condition. Finally, a thorough inspection is conducted to ensure that your home is mold-free.

Call RestorationMaster for mold remediation today.